The Importance of Boarding Up
Boarding up is a common emergency response method that protects the property after damage. It prevents theft, limits the amount of foot traffic at the fire site and reduces the damage caused by smoke to carpeting or upholstery.
The process of boarding up can be accomplished using plywood or steel sheeting. Steel is more expensive but lasts much longer and provides greater levels of security.
Security
It's easy to forget after the occurrence of a natural disaster or property damage, that protecting the structure is as important as fixing and restoring. Boarding up your property can help to protect your structure from further vandalism and damage, and it will stop criminals and squatters seeking opportunities to profit from the situation.
By boarding up a structure it is possible to avoid further damage caused by debris flying around or even water. It also provides the security of your children and pets. Additionally the boarding up process can shield vacant properties from the risk of vandalism and burglary. In order to effectively protect your vacant property, you have to develop a security plan that combines traditional physical protection with the latest technology and expert services.
One of the most important things you can do when you are boarding up your home is to cover all entry points. Windows and doors are the obvious first places to start however, you should be aware of entrances that may not be considered a typical entry point but could be used as such by criminals, such as basements and skylights.
The proper materials are an essential element of an effective security plan for vacant buildings. Plywood will warp over time and then pull away from fixtures. Steel is more expensive but will last forever and provide greater security than plywood.
The best option is to select security screens made of steel that can be affixed externally to windows above the ground floor. They are easier to install than Sitex security screen panels and do not require the window to be removed, which can cause significant damage to the frame and glass. Compression security screens have been created to offer a rapid deployment board solution that is as secure as Perforated Steel screens and is less likely to cause damage to the frames or windows.
Effective physical security is built on the concept of defense in depth, which involves creating multiple layers of security measures which are designed to hinder those who are deterred and slow those who cannot. In the end, no single security measure can be 100 100% effective against an experienced and well-equipped adversary. However, combining a successful board up security plan with monitoring and surveillance technologies can dramatically increase the chances of your vacant property being empty.
Waterproofing
When a building has been damaged due to a natural disaster, fire or other occurrence, windows, doors, and walls may be left open to the elements. By boarding up the area, you can avoid further damage, and provides security from trespassers and vandals while the property is being repaired and reoccupied.
A good boarding-up company will include waterproofing as a part of the overall solution. Waterproofing keeps moisture out of the structure, causing mold and rot. It also reduces the risk of structural damage and saves on expensive maintenance costs. It is a wise investment that can increase the value of a home or commercial space.
Although it is important to secure the building using boards, it's not an effective security solution. Effective security is based on the concept called defence in depth and is thus a matter of putting on layers rather than removing them. A secure boarding-up can deter criminals since they would attempt to gain access via other routes.
A complete review of all possible access points including fire escape ladders and access points near flat roofs, must be carried out. These can be difficult to block and are often missed by looters or squatters.
Once the boarding-up is completed, it is crucial to perform a final inspection to ensure that there are no dangers to safety and that all of the panels have been secured correctly. This will also permit an easy reinstallation later on in the event of a need.
Another benefit of boarding a building is that it will help cut further losses from insurance claims. Many insurers will pay out claims if the insured has taken proactive steps to safeguard their property from further damage before it occurs. This is particularly true if the damage resulted from a storm or other weather-related issue. In these instances it is essential to board up the building as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to prevent costly repairs.
Damage Prevention
Following the effects of a natural disaster, property owners need to take extra precautions to protect their buildings from further damage. Placing up windows and doors that have been damaged is one such solution. This is necessary whether it's due to storm damage or fire damage to avoid further destruction and theft.
The construction of a boarding is accomplished using OSB or plywood which is cut to the proper size and secured with nails. This can be accomplished using basic carpentry skills. However, it's often best to leave this task to professionals who have the proper tools and knowledge of how to board a building safely. Professionals know which kind of plywood is most for the climate of the region in which the building is situated and can add carriage screws for security. They also make sure there are no safety hazards like protruding nails, or screws that could cause injury to anyone who steps into the building in the future.
Apart from the obvious security benefits, boarding your business or home can help save you money in the long term. This is particularly important when you run a business. If
boarding up doors breaks during an extreme storm, for example, it's likely your customers won't return. A damaged window can make your store appear unattractive and could lead to theft.
The cost of boarding up may be covered by your insurance policy. Nearly every property policy includes an option to cover the cost of emergency services, including securing properties after they've been damaged by flooding, wind or other natural disasters. Not boarding up your property quickly enough after the damage could cause the insurance company to deny your claim or at the very least, hold you accountable for any additional or secondary damage caused by neglect.
A boarding up can not only protect your home from further damage, but also from squatters and animals. Squatters are known to attack vacant homes, especially when they are easily broken into and cause thousands of dollars of damage in a short period of time. A boarding can not only stop them from breaking into your house and causing damage, but it will also help to preserve the belongings you've managed to save after an incident with fire. This includes furniture, drapes and other items that could otherwise be destroyed due to soot or ash resulting from the fire.
Insurance

Most standard homeowner's insurance policies are designed to cover expenses of repairing or rebuilding structures and possessions damaged by the covered dangers however, some policies also provide provisions for emergency mitigation, which can include boarding windows. The details can differ. A certified disaster restoration specialist can help navigate the process and ensure that you are covered in the right way.
The process of boarding up a structure has several benefits for property owners, including protecting against further damage, theft, and other external elements. The process is also an effective deterrent for vandalism and unwanted trespassers which can further damage the property. It also reduces the possibility of an fire, which could cause more damage to the building.
When boarding up trained technicians will inspect the property to ensure that all holes are sealed by using plywood or other materials. This will reduce the potential exposure of the property. They will then seal the property to prevent damage from wind and water and also look for safety hazards such as protruding screws or nails. Once the boarding up is complete, the crew will clean up any debris and items to ensure the area is safe.
When the board-up process is complete the owner of the property will be able to relax knowing that their property is secure until it can be fixed or replaced. In some cases, the property owner may be allowed to keep their insurance coverage as any additional damage could be viewed as negligent.
A professional boarding company is the best way to safeguard any residential or commercial property. These specialized companies will evaluate the damage and secure any areas that are open with boards, and provide peace of mind to homeowners during a stressful period. They can also work closely with your insurance company to ensure that you receive the coverage you deserve.
It is crucial to act swiftly to protect your property if your building has been damaged by a fire, storm, or any other incident. A reputable boarding up service can provide security, protection against future damage, and peace of mind for your business or home. To learn more about a boarding-up service and to make an appointment, contact them.