The Importance of Boarding Up
Boarding up damaged property is a common measure to protect it following an incident. It reduces the risk of theft, reduces the amount of foot traffic on the scene, and minimizes the damage caused by smoke to carpets and upholstery.
Boarding up can be done with plywood or steel sheeting. Steel is more expensive but is more durable and provides more security.
Security
It's easy to forget, after an event of natural catastrophe or damage to property, that protecting the structure is just as important as repairing and restoration. Boarding up your property can help to protect your structure from further damage and vandalism, and it will discourage criminals and squatters seeking opportunities to take advantage of the situation.
By boarding up a structure will help avoid further damage caused by falling debris or water. Additionally, you can provide a safe environment for children and pets. The act of boarding up vacant homes can also protect them from vandalism or burglary. To effectively guard your vacant property, you have to establish a security plan that combines traditional physical protection with cutting-edge technology and professional services.
When boarding up a building, it is important to cover all entryways. Start with doors and windows, but also think about other entry points that might not be obvious but could be used by criminals.
Another crucial aspect of a security plan for vacant buildings is to use the right materials. Plywood is a common choice, but it may get warped and pull away from fixtures as time passes. Steel is more expensive but it will last for a long time and provide more security than plywood.
Ideally, you should choose steel security screens that can be attached externally to windows above the ground. They are much easier to install than Sitex security screens, and will not require removal of the window, which could cause damage to the glass or frame. Compression security screens have been designed to provide a fast-deployment boarding solutions that are as secure as Perforated Steel screens and is less likely to cause damage to the frames or windows.
Effective physical security is based on the concept of defence-in depth, which involves multiple layers of security controls designed to deter those who can be dissuaded and delay those who can't. Ultimately, no single security control measure is 100% effective against an adversary that is well-equipped and determined. However, combining a reliable board up security plan with monitoring and surveillance technologies can dramatically increase the chances of your vacant home remaining empty.
Waterproofing
If a structure is damaged through an incident, such as a natural disaster or fire, it may leave windows, doors and walls open to the elements. The boarding up of the area prevents further damage and provides protection against vandals or trespassers until the property is repaired and reoccupied.
A good boarding-up service should include waterproofing as a part of the overall plan. Waterproofing keeps moisture from entering the structure and result in mold or rot. It also lowers the risk of structural damage and saves the cost of maintenance. It is a wise investment that will boost the value of a house or commercial space.
While securing the building with boards is essential but it is important to note that it is not a complete security solution. Defence in depth is the basis of a secure security. It is essential to add layers rather than remove them. A secure boarding-up can deter criminals, as they will attempt to gain access through other routes.
A thorough survey of all possible access points including fire escape ladders, and access points next to flat roofs, should be carried out. These are difficult to block and are often ignored or overlooked by squatters.
After the boarding-up process has been completed, it is crucial to conduct a final inspection to ensure there are no risks to safety and that all panels have been secured together correctly. This will allow for easy reinstallation if necessary.
The act of boarding up a building can also help reduce the amount of insurance claims. Many insurance companies support an approach that is proactive and are more likely to settle an insurance claim if the insured has taken measures to protect the property in advance of any further damage that may occur. This can be particularly important when the damage was caused by storms or other weather-related issues. In these instances, it is essential to ensure that the building is secured as soon as you can to limit further damage and prevent the need for costly repairs.
Damage Prevention
Following an natural disaster, property owners need to take extra precautions to safeguard their structures from further damage. One way to do this is to put up a board on any windows or doors that have been impacted. This is essential regardless of the cause, whether it's storm damage or fire damage to prevent further damage and theft.
The board up of a structure is done with plywood or OSB that is cut to the right size and secured by nails. Basic carpentry skills are needed to complete this. But, it's generally recommended to leave the job to professionals with the proper tools and knowledge of how to build a board a building safely. Professionals will also know what kind of plywood to choose according to the climate in which the structure is situated, and may also add carriage bolts for security. They also make sure that there aren't any safety hazards like protruding nails or screws that could cause injury to anyone who comes into the building in the future.
The act of boarding your office or home will save you money over time. This is especially true for businesses that operate. If a window breaks during a hurricane, for instance your customers won't come back. A damaged window also makes your store look less inviting and could lead to theft.
The cost of boarding up could be covered by your insurance policy. Most policies for property owners include an option to cover the cost of emergency services. This includes securing damaged properties following wind or flood calamities. If you fail to secure your property as soon as you can after such damage the insurance company may refuse to pay your claim or make the property liable for additional/secondary damages.
In addition to protecting your building from further damage, board up can also keep it safe from animals and squatters. Squatters are attracted to vacant homes because they are easily broken into and they can cause thousands of dollars in damage in a short amount of time. A boarding will prevent them from breaking in to your house and will preserve the things you have managed to save after the fire. This could include furniture, drapes and other things that could otherwise be destroyed by ash or soot residue from the fire.
boarding up a doorway are designed to cover cost of repairing and building structures and possessions damaged by covered perils, but many also include provisions for emergency mitigation services, which can include boarding up windows. The details can differ. A certified disaster restoration contractor will assist you through the process, and will make sure that your insurance coverage is adequate.
The act of boarding up a property can provide many benefits for the owner, including protection against further damage, theft and external elements. This process can also be used to discourage unwanted vandalism or trespassers that could cause further damage to the property. It also reduces the risk of an fire, which could cause more 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 apply an adhesive to protect against 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 up process is complete, the crew will clean up any debris and items to ensure that the area is secure.
When the board-up process is complete The property owner can rest assured that their property will be secured until it is repaired or replaced. In some instances, the property owner may be in a position to retain their insurance coverage since any further damage will likely be deemed to be negligence.
The best method to protect your home or commercial property is to employ an experienced boarding service. These companies can assess the extent of damage and secure open areas with boards and provide peace of mind to property owners during an uncertain time. They can also work closely with your insurance company to ensure you receive the protection you deserve.
It's important to act quickly to safeguard your property in the event that your building has been damaged by a storm, fire or other event. A reputable boarding service will provide security, protection from further destruction, and peace of mind for your office or home. Contact a board-up service to find out more about their services and schedule an inspection.