What Is Boarding Up And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It?
The Importance of Boarding Up
The practice of boarding up damaged property is a common measure to protect it following an incident. It deters theft, reduces the amount of foot traffic at the scene of the fire and reduces the damage caused by smoke to carpeting and upholstery.
Boarding up can be done with steel sheeting or plywood. Steel is more expensive, but lasts much longer and provides more security.
Security
After a natural disaster or other property damage, it could be easy to forget that safeguarding your property is just as important as repairing and fixing. Boarding up the structure can protect it from further vandalism or damage. It can also deter squatters or criminals seeking an opportunity.
Boarding up a building will protect it from further damage caused by flying debris or water, as well as providing an environment that is safe for pets and children. The act of boarding up vacant homes can also safeguard them from burglary or vandalism. To safeguard your vacant property effectively, you'll need to implement a strategy that combines physical protection with the latest technology and professional services.
When you are boarding up a structure, it is important to cover all entryways. Start with doors and windows but think about other entry points that may not be obvious but could be used by criminals.
Another important aspect of a security plan for vacant buildings is to choose the right materials. Plywood is a common choice, but it may get warped and pull away from fixtures over time. Steel is more expensive but it will last for a long time and offer more security than plywood.
Ideally, you should choose steel security screens that can be fitted externally to windows above the ground. They are easier to install than Sitex security screens, and will not require the removal of the window, which could cause damage to the glass or frame. Compression security screens have been designed to offer a quick-deployment boarding solutions that are as secure as Perforated Steel screens and is less likely to cause damage to frames or windows.
Effective physical security is based on the concept of defence in depth, which entails creating multiple layers of security measures designed to deter those that can be stopped and deter those who cannot. In the end, no security control measure is 100% effective against an adversary that is well-equipped and determined. Combining a well-designed board-up security method with surveillance and monitoring technology can increase the odds that your vacant property will not be occupied.
Waterproofing
When a building is damaged due to an event, such as a natural disaster or fire, it could open doors, windows and walls open to the elements. The boardering of the area can prevent further damage and also provides security from trespassers and vandals while the property is being repaired and rebuilt.
Waterproofing is an essential component of a quality boarding up service. Waterproofing keeps moisture out of the structure, leading to mold and rot. It also reduces the risk of structural damage and saves money on maintenance. Waterproofing can boost the value of your property or business.
While it is important to secure the building with boards, it isn't an effective security measure. Effective security is based on a principle called defence in depth. It's therefore a matter of adding layers rather than removing them. But an effective boarding-up solution that is secure can help deter most criminals since they are likely to try to gain entry by other routes.
In addition to the obvious openings, such as windows and doors, a thorough survey should be conducted and include other potential access points such as a fire escape ladder or access point near an open roof. These are difficult to block and are often ignored or overlooked by squatters.
After the boarding-up process has been completed, it's important to conduct a final check to ensure that there aren't any safety hazards and that all panels have been secured together correctly. This will make it easy for installation if needed.
Another advantage of boarding the building is that it will help to reduce the loss from insurance claims. Many insurance companies favor an approach that is proactive and will be more likely to pay out an insurance claim if the insured has taken precautions to safeguard the property from further damage occurring. This is particularly important when the damage resulted from storms or another weather-related issue. In these situations it is crucial to secure the building as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage and avoid costly repairs.
Prevention of Damage
After a natural catastrophe homeowners must take extra precautions to safeguard their home from further destruction. The idea of boarding up doors and windows that have been damaged is a good solution. If it's a result of the weather or a fire it's often necessary to prevent further damage, theft and even squatters from getting into the building while waiting for repairs to be made.
The construction of a boarding is done with OSB or plywood that is cut to the correct size and secured with nails. Basic carpentry skills are needed to do this. It is recommended to leave this job to professionals who have the appropriate tools and know-how for boarding up a secure building. Professionals also know the type of plywood to use according to the climate in which the structure is located and can add carriage bolts to ensure security. They also ensure there are no safety hazards like protruding nails or screws that could inflict injury on anyone who comes into the structure in the future.
Aside from the obvious safety benefits, boarding up your home or business can help you save money in the long term. If you're a business owner this is crucial. If a window breaks during a hurricane, for instance, it's likely your customers will not return. A damaged window also makes your store appear unattractive and can lead to theft.
Your insurance policy could provide the cost of boarding. Most property policies have an option to cover the expense of emergency services, which includes the need to secure properties after they've been damaged by flooding, wind or other calamities. Not boarding up your property quickly enough after a disaster can cause the insurance company to deny your claim, or at a minimum, make the property owner accountable for any further or subsequent damage caused by neglect.
In addition to protecting your building from further damage, a board up can also keep it safe from squatters and animals. Squatters are known to target vacant homes, especially when they are easily broken into and cause thousands of dollars in damage in a short amount of time. A boarding prevents them from breaking in to your house and will aid in the preservation of the things you managed to save following a fire. This includes drapes, furniture, and other things that would otherwise be destroyed by soot or ash from the fire.
Insurance
The homeowner's insurance policies typically cover the cost of repairing and reconstructing structures and possessions damaged by covered hazards. However, many contain provisions for emergency mitigation, for example, the boarding of windows. The specifics of the policy can vary. A certified disaster restoration professional can assist you in the process and ensure you are covered in the right way.
Boarding up a building offers several benefits for property owners, such as protecting against further damage, theft, and external elements. This method can also be used to deter unwanted vandalism or trespassers that could cause further damage to the property. It can also lower the possibility of an fire, which could cause more damage to the structure.
During the boarding up process, trained technicians will inspect the property and seal any gaps with plywood or other material to prevent exposure outward. They will use a sealant to stop wind and water damage as well as make sure there aren't any dangers to safety, such as protruding nails or screws. After the boarding process is completed, the team will remove any debris or other items to ensure the safety of the area.
After the board-up procedure is complete, the owner of the property will be able to relax knowing that their home is protected until it can be repaired or replaced. In some cases this could allow them to retain their insurance coverage, as it is possible that any additional damage could be deemed to be negligent.
The best way to safeguard your home or commercial property is by hiring a professional boarding-up service. These specialized companies will evaluate the damage and secure any exposed areas with boards, and offer peace of mind for homeowners during a stressful time. Repair My Windows And Doors will also work with your insurance provider to ensure you receive the protection you need.
It is essential to act fast to safeguard your property if your property has been damaged by a fire, storm or other event. A reputable boarding service can provide security, protection against further damage and peace of mind for your home or business. To learn more about a boarding-up service and to schedule an appointment, call them.