Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether dealing with a retailer, office complex, or storage facility, securing physical properties is important, particularly in times of crisis. One major preventive step companies can take is boarding up their facilities. This article explores the idea of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, techniques, and finest practices for implementation.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial Boarding Up (Bursariesa.Co.Za) describes the procedure of temporarily securing doors and windows of commercial residential or commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically made use of throughout emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility vacant for a prolonged duration. The supreme aim is to avoid unapproved access, hinder theft, and safeguard property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up often develops for numerous reasons:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms can cause substantial damage to buildings through high winds and flying particles. Boarding up can minimize prospective damage to windows and doors.

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured premises are susceptible to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can prevent criminal activity and protect important stock and equipment.

Construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be necessary to restrict access to particular locations, guaranteeing safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for crouching or breaking and getting in. Boarding up offers protection until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Methods of Commercial Boarding Up
There are a number of methods to board up a commercial property efficiently. These can differ based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the period for which the boards must stay in place.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFeaturesBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily availableShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, decent strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExceptionally durable, fire-resistantHigh-security requirements, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementInstallation Techniques
Screw and Anchor: Secure the boards to the window or door frames utilizing screws that permeate deeply into the wall for stability.

Brackets: Use brackets to strengthen the boards, particularly for larger openings.

Secure with Bolts: In high-risk locations, bolts can be utilized for added security, making sure that boards can not be quickly gotten rid of.

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards rather of connecting directly to the structure can be advantageous.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While many boarding up practices are intended to be temporary, there are cases where irreversible or semi-permanent solutions may be required. It is necessary to assess the individual needs of the property and function of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the efficiency of commercial boarding up, certain finest practices must be followed:

Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and examine the weak points that might be exploited throughout a crisis.

Make use of the ideal materials: Choose the proper boarding products based on the level of risk and duration of boarding up.

Professional setup: For larger or heavily affected properties, engaging professional services can ensure exceptional security and compliance with local regulations.

Keep secure gain access to points: Even while boarding up, ensure that you have secure gain access to points for emergency services, if necessary.

Routine assessments: Periodically check the boarding to ensure it stays secure and intact, specifically after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal density for plywood boarding?
A thickness of a minimum of 1/2 inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to ensure it can withstand high winds and effect.
How can I eliminate boards after setup?
Usually, unscrewing the boards or removing bolts should enable easy elimination. Nevertheless, it is crucial to have the correct tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of businesses decide to board up themselves