Why All The Fuss About Boarding Up?
The Importance of Boarding Up
Boarding up damaged property is a common method to secure it after the occurrence of a disaster. It prevents theft, limits the amount of foot traffic at the scene of the fire and reduces the damage caused by smoke to carpeting and upholstery.
Steel or plywood can be used to build a board for windows. Steel is more expensive, however it lasts longer and offers greater security.
Security
It's easy to forget after an event of natural catastrophe or property damage, that protecting the structure is as important as fixing and restoring. Boarding up the structure will help protect it from further vandalism or damage. It can also deter squatters or criminals seeking an opportunity.
A building that is boarded up will protect it from further damage caused by falling debris or rain and also provide a safe environment for children and pets. The act of boarding up vacant homes can also protect the property from burglary or vandalism. To protect your vacant property effectively, you will have to develop a plan that integrates physical protection with the latest technology and professional services.
One of the most important things you can do when you are boarding up your home is to secure all entry points. Start with windows and doors however, you should also consider other entry points that might not be obvious, but could be used by criminals.
The right materials are an important part of an effective security plan for vacant buildings. Plywood is a common choice, but it can be prone to warping and pulling away from fixtures as time passes. Steel is more expensive but it will last for a long time and provide greater security than plywood.
You should opt for steel security screens that can be installed outside on windows that are above ground level. They are much easier to install than Sitex security screens and do not require you to remove the window, which can cause damage to the frame or glass. Compression security screens are designed to offer a simple-to-install board solution. They are as safe as Perforated Steel screen, and are less likely to cause damage to the frame or window.
Effective physical security is based on the concept of defence-in depth, which involves multiple layers of security controls that are designed to deter those who can be deterred as well as delay those who cannot. In the end, no single security measure can be 100 100% effective against an experienced and well-equipped adversary. Combining a successful board-up security method with surveillance and monitoring technologies can increase the odds that your vacant property will remain unoccupied.
Waterproofing
If a structure is damaged by an event like a natural catastrophe or fire, it can cause windows, doors and walls exposed to the elements. The boardering of the area can prevent further damage and also provides security against vandals and trespassers while the property is being repaired and rebuilt.
A good boarding-up company will include waterproofing as part of the overall plan. Waterproofing keeps moisture out of the structure, causing mold and rot. It also helps reduce the possibility of structural damage and saves on expensive maintenance costs. It is a wise investment that will boost the value of your home or commercial space.
Although it is important to secure the building using boards, it isn't an effective security method. Defence in depth is the basis of a secure security. It is essential to build layers rather than removing them. Nevertheless, the use of a secure boarding-up system can help deter most criminals, as they try to gain entry through other avenues.
A full review of all possible access points, including fire escape ladders, and access points on flat roofs, should be conducted. These can be difficult to block and are often overlooked by looters or squatters.
Once the boarding-up has been completed, it is important to conduct a final inspection to ensure that there aren't any risks to safety and that all of the panels have been secured together properly. This will allow for easy installation if needed.
Another benefit of boarding a building is that it can help reduce further losses from insurance claims. Many insurance companies will pay claims if the insured has taken proactive measures to safeguard their property before further damage occurs. This is particularly true if damage resulted from storms or another weather-related issue. In these situations, it is important to board up the building as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to avoid costly repairs.
Damage Prevention
Following a natural disaster property owners should take extra precautions to protect their property from further destruction. Placing up windows and doors that have been damaged is an example of this solution. This is necessary regardless of whether it's because of fire or storm damages to prevent further destruction and theft.
The process of building a board is typically done using OSB or plywood, which is cut to the desired size and secured using nails. Basic carpentry skills are needed to do this. But, it's generally best to leave this task to professionals who have the appropriate tools and know-how of how to build a board a structure in a safe manner. Professionals will also know what type of plywood to use based on the climate where the structure is located, and may also add carriage bolts for security. They will also make sure that there are no safety risks like protruding nails, or screws that could cause injury to anyone who steps into the building in the future.
Aside from the obvious safety benefits, boarding your business or home could help save you money in the long in the long run. If you're a business owner this is crucial. If a window is damaged during a hurricane, for instance your customers won't return. A broken window can also make your store appear unattractive and can cause theft.
The cost of boarding up may be covered by your insurance policy. Most property policies have a provision that covers the cost of emergency services, including the need to secure properties after they've been damaged by flood, wind or other calamities. If you fail to secure your property as soon as possible after the damage the insurance company may reject your claim or hold the property liable for additional/secondary damages.
In addition to securing your building from further damage, a boarder can also help keep it safe from animals and squatters. Squatters are known to attack vacant homes, especially when they are easily accessed and can cause thousands of dollars in damage in a short period of time. A boarding can not only prevent them from breaking into your house and causing damage, but it will also help to protect the items you've saved after a fire. This includes furniture, drapes, and other items that could otherwise be destroyed due to soot or ash from the fire.
Insurance
The homeowner's insurance policies typically cover the cost of repairing and reconstructing structures and personal possessions that are damaged by covered hazards. However, many also provide emergency mitigation, like blocking windows. The specifics of the policy can vary. A certified disaster restoration contractor can assist you in the process and ensure you have adequate coverage.
The act of boarding up a property can provide many benefits to the owner, including protection from further damage, theft, and external elements. This method can be used to deter unwanted trespassers or vandalism that could cause further damage to the property. Additionally, it can also reduce the likelihood of a fire that could cause further damage to the structure.
During the boarding up process, trained technicians will inspect the property and secure any gaps using plywood or other material to limit outward exposure. They will seal the property to avoid damage from water and wind and also look for safety hazards, such as protruding screws or nails. After the boarding-up process is complete, the crew will clean up any debris and other materials to ensure that the area is secure.
Once boarding up commercial property -up service is complete, the owner of the property can rest easy knowing that their home is secured until it can be repaired or replaced. In certain instances, the property owner may be in a position to retain their insurance coverage as any further damage will likely be viewed as negligence.
The best method to protect your home or commercial property is to hire a professional boarding-up service. These companies can assess the damage and secure areas with boards and provide peace of mind to property owners during an uncertain moment. They can also collaborate with your insurance company to ensure that you get the protection you are entitled to.
If your building is damaged due to a fire, storm or any other calamity it is crucial to act immediately to protect your property. A reputable boarding service can provide security, protection against further damage and peace of assurance for your home or business. Contact a board up service to learn more about their offerings and to set up an inspection.