It's Time To Expand Your Boarding Up Options
The Importance of Boarding Up
Boarding up is a common procedure for disaster recovery that protects a damaged property. It lowers the risk of theft, decreases pedestrian traffic around the fire site, and reduces the effects of smoke on carpets and upholstery.
The plywood or steel can be used to board up windows. Steel is more expensive but lasts much longer and provides more security.
Security
In the aftermath of an natural disaster or another property damage, it could be easy to forget that securing your property is just as important as fixing and restoring. The act of boarding up your structure will help protect it from further damage or vandalism. It also helps discourage criminals or squatters seeking an opportunity.
A building that is boarded up will protect it from further damage caused by flying debris or water as well as ensuring the safety of pets and children. Boarding up vacant properties will also shield the property from burglary or vandalism. To protect your vacant property effectively, you'll have to develop a plan that incorporates physical security with the latest technology and expert services.
When you are boarding up a structure it is essential to secure all entrances. Doors and windows are obvious places to begin however, you should also consider entrances that might not be considered a typical entrance point but could be used as such by criminals, such as basements and skylights.
Another crucial aspect of a security strategy for vacant buildings is to choose the appropriate materials. Plywood is a common choice, but it can warp and pull away from fixtures over time. Steel is a more expensive material, however it can last indefinitely and offers far more security than plywood.
The best option is to select steel security screens that can be attached externally to windows that are above the ground floor. They are easier to install than Sitex security screen panels, and they will not require the window to be taken out and can cause serious damage to the frame or glass. Security screens made of compression are designed to offer a simple-to-install boarding solution. They are as safe as a Perforated Steel screen and less likely to harm the frame or window.
Effective physical security relies on the concept of defence in depth, which entails creating multiple layers of security controls which are designed to hinder those who can be deterred and delay those who cannot. Ultimately, no single security control measure is 100% effective against an experienced and well-equipped adversary. Combining an effective board-up security method with surveillance and monitoring technology will increase the chances that your vacant property will remain unoccupied.
Waterproofing
When a building is damaged due to an event, like a natural catastrophe or fire, it can cause windows, doors and walls exposed to the elements. The boarding up of the area prevents further damage and provides protection against vandals or trespassers until the property can be repaired and re-occupied.
Waterproofing is an essential part of a good board up service. Waterproofing keeps moisture out of the structure, causing mold and rot. It also reduces the chance of structural damages and saves the cost of maintenance. It is a wise investment that can increase the value of a home or commercial space.
While securing the building using boards is important but it is important to note that it isn't an all-encompassing security solution. Effective security is based on the concept known as defence in depth. It's an issue of adding layers rather than taking them away. A secure boarding-up system can deter criminals since they would try to gain access via other routes.
In addition to the obvious openings such as windows and doors, a full survey should be completed and include possible access points like an escape ladder for fire or access point near the flat roof. These are difficult to block, and are often overlooked or ignored by people who are squatters.
After the boarding up is complete, it's important to conduct a final inspection to ensure that there are no hazards and that the panels are securely secured. This will also permit easy reinstallation in the future if required.
Another benefit of boarding the building is that it can help cut further losses from insurance claims. Many insurance companies support the proactive approach and will be more likely to pay out a claim when the insured has taken precautions to protect the property from any further damage that may occur. This is especially important in the event that the damage was caused by weather or other issues. In these cases it is imperative to ensure that the building has been boarded up as soon as possible to minimize further damage and avoid the need for costly repairs.
Damage Prevention
After a natural catastrophe, property owners must take extra precautions in order to safeguard their home from further damage. One such measure is to put up a board on any windows or doors which have been damaged. Whether it's because of fire or storm damage, this is often necessary to prevent further damage, theft and even squatters from entering the building while waiting for the permanent repairs to be completed.
Buildings are typically done using OSB or plywood, which is cut to size and then secured with nails. This can be accomplished with basic carpentry skills. It's best to leave this job to professionals, with the right tools and know-how to put up a safe building. Professionals also know the type of plywood to use according to the climate in which the structure is located and they can also include carriage bolts to ensure security. They will also make sure that there aren't any safety hazards such as protruding nails or screws that could cause injuries to anyone who comes into the building in the future.
In addition to the obvious security benefits, boarding your business or home could help you save money in the long in the long run. This is especially true for businesses that operate. If, for instance the window is damaged in the midst of a hurricane your customers are less likely to return. A broken window can also make your store appear unattractive and could cause theft.
Your insurance policy could pay for the cost of boarding. Most property policies have a clause that covers the expense of emergency services, including the need to secure properties after they've been damaged by flooding, wind or other natural disasters. If you don't board up your property as soon as is possible after such damage the insurance company could refuse to pay your claim or make you responsible for additional/secondary damages.
A boarding up will not only protect your building from further damage but it also protects your building from animals and squatters. Squatters are known to attack empty homes, particularly when they're easily broken into and cause thousands of dollars of damage in a short period of time. A boarding can not only deter them from breaking into your house and causing damage, but it will also help to protect the items you've saved after the fire. This can include furniture, drapes and other items that might otherwise be destroyed by ash or soot residue from the fire.
Insurance
Standard homeowner's insurance covers the cost of repairing and reconstructing structures and belongings damaged by covered hazards. However, many include provisions for emergency mitigation, like boarding up windows. However, the specifics can differ. A certified disaster restoration contractor can guide you through the process and ensure that you get adequate coverage.
Boarding up boarding up doors offers several benefits for homeowners, including protection against further damage, theft, and other external elements. This method can also be used to deter unwanted trespassers or vandalism that could cause further damage to the property. In addition, it could also reduce the likelihood of a fire that could cause further damage to the structure.
During the boarding up process trained technicians will check the property and seal any gaps using plywood or other material to limit outward exposure. They will seal the property to prevent damage caused by wind and water, and check for safety hazards like protruding nails or screws. After the boarding is done, the team will remove any debris or materials to ensure the security of the area.
After the board-up procedure is complete, the property owner can rest easy knowing that their property is secure until it can be repaired or replaced. In some cases this could allow homeowners to maintain their insurance coverage since it is likely that any further damage would be considered negligent.
Hiring a professional boarding service is the best way to safeguard any residential or commercial property. These specialized companies will assess damage and secure areas with boards and offer peace-of-mind for property owners in an uncertain moment. They will also work closely with your insurance provider to ensure that you receive the coverage you deserve.
It is crucial to act swiftly to safeguard your property if your building has been damaged by fire, storm or other occurrence. A reputable boarding service can offer security, protection from further damage and peace of peace of mind for your business or home. To find out more about a board-up service and to schedule an appointment, contact them.