The Importance of Boarding Up
Boarding up damaged property is a common measure to secure it after a disaster. It reduces the risk of theft, minimizes foot traffic at the fire scene, and minimizes smoke damage on carpets and upholstery.
The plywood or steel can be used to build a board for a window. Steel is more expensive but is more durable and provides greater levels of security.
Security
It's easy to forget, following a natural disaster or damage to property, that protecting the structure is just as important as fixing and restoration. The act of boarding up can help to protect your structure from further vandalism and damage and stop criminals and squatters seeking opportunities to take advantage of the situation.
By boarding up a structure it is possible to stop further damage from falling debris or water. It also provides a safe environment for children and pets. Boarding up vacant properties can also protect the property from burglary or vandalism. To ensure the security of your vacant property, you need to implement a security strategy that blends traditional physical security with cutting-edge technology and professional services.
When you are boarding up a structure it is crucial to secure all entrances. Doors and windows are obvious places to begin, but you should be aware of entrances that may not be a common entry point, but could be used as such by criminals such as basements and skylights.
The proper materials are essential to the security plan for vacant buildings. Plywood is a common option, but it could get warped and pull away from fixtures in time. Steel is more expensive, but will last forever and provide more security than plywood.
It is recommended to choose steel security screens which can be positioned outside on windows that are above ground level. These are quicker to install than Sitex security screen panels, and do not require the window to be removed in order to cause damage to the frame or glass. Security screens made of compression have been designed to provide a fast-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 based on the concept of defence in depth, which entails creating multiple layers of security controls which are designed to hinder those who can be deterred and delay those that cannot. In the end, no security control measure is 100 100% effective against an adversary that is well-equipped and determined. Combining a well-designed board-up security method with surveillance and monitoring technology will increase the chances that your vacant property will remain unoccupied.
Waterproofing
If a structure is damaged by fire, natural disaster or other event windows, doors, and walls can be left open to the elements. The boarding up of the area prevents further damage and offers security against vandals and trespassers until the property can be repaired and re-occupied.
Waterproofing is an important part of a good board up service. Waterproofing stops unwanted moisture from leaking into the structure and cause rot or mold. It also lowers the risk of structural damages and saves costs on maintenance. Waterproofing can increase the value of your business or home.
While securing the building using boards is crucial but it is important to note that it's not a complete security solution. Effective security is based on the concept called defence in depth and is therefore a matter of adding layers, not 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 as well as access points near flat roofs, ought to be carried out. These are difficult to block and are often missed by looters or squatters.
Once the boarding-up is completed, it's important to conduct a final check to ensure that there are no risks to safety and that all of the panels have been secured correctly. This will allow for easy reinstallation in the future in the event of a need.
Boarding up a building will help in reducing the amount of insurance claims. Many insurance companies will pay claims if the insured has taken proactive measures to safeguard their property prior to further damage occurs. This can be particularly important when the damage was caused by weather-related storms or other issues. In these instances, it is essential to ensure that the building has been boarded up in the earliest time possible to minimize further damage and avoid the need for expensive repairs.
boarding up property
In the wake of the effects of a natural catastrophe, property owners have to take extra precautions to protect their buildings from further damage. Placing up windows and doors that have been damaged is a good solution. Whether it's because of fire or storm damage it's often necessary to prevent further damage, theft and even squatters entering the building while waiting for permanent repairs to be completed.
Boarding up a building is usually done with plywood or OSB, which is cut to the desired size and secured with nails. Basic carpentry skills are required to do this. However, it's usually recommended to leave the job to professionals with the right tools and know-how of how to board up a structure in a safe manner. Professionals also know the kind of plywood to choose based on the climate where the structure is situated, and may also add carriage bolts to ensure security. They will also make sure that there are no safety risks such as protruding nails or screws that could cause injuries to anyone who steps into the building in the future.
In addition to the obvious security benefits, boarding up your business or home could help save you money in the long in the long run. This is particularly important if you own a business. If a window breaks during a hurricane, for instance you can be sure that your customers will not return. A broken window also makes your store look uninviting and can lead to theft.
Your insurance policy could pay for the cost of boarding. The majority of property policies contain an option to cover cost of emergency services. This includes the need to secure damaged structures following storms or flood catastrophes. If you don't secure your property as soon as you can after such damage the insurance company could deny your claim or hold you accountable for any additional or secondary damages.
In addition to securing your building from further damage, a boarder can also help protect it from squatters and animals. Squatters are known for their petty attacks on empty homes, particularly when they are easy to break into and cause thousands of dollars in damages in a short amount of time. A boarding will not only deter them from breaking into your home and causing damage, but it will also help to protect the items you've saved after an incident with fire. This includes furniture, drapes and other items that might otherwise be destroyed by soot or ash residue from the fire.
Insurance
Standard homeowner's policies cover the cost of repairing and rebuilding structures and belongings damaged by covered hazards. However, some provide emergency mitigation, for example, blocking windows. Specifics can vary. A certified disaster restoration professional will assist you through the process, and ensure that your coverage is adequate.
A property that is boarded up offers many benefits for the owner, including protection against further damage, theft and external elements. This process can also be used to deter unwanted trespassers or vandalism that could cause further damage to the property. Additionally, it can reduce the chance of a fire, which could cause further damage to the structure.
In the process of boarding up trained technicians will examine the property and seal any gaps with plywood or other material to limit exposure. They will use a sealant to prevent water and wind damage, and ensure there are no safety hazards, such as protruding nails or screws. After the boarding up process is completed, the team will clean up any debris and materials to ensure that the area is secure.
Once the board-up service is completed the owner of the property can relax knowing that their property is protected until it can be fixed or replaced. In some instances it may be possible for homeowners to maintain their insurance coverage, since it is possible that any additional damage could be deemed to be negligent.
Engaging a professional boarding service is the best option to protect any residential or commercial property. These specialized companies will assess damage and secure open areas with boards, and provide peace-of-mind for property owners in an uncertain moment. They will also work with your insurance company to ensure that you receive the coverage that you are entitled to.
If your home or business is damaged by a fire, storm or any other calamity it is crucial to take immediate action to safeguard your property. A reputable boarding up service can offer security, protection from further damage, and peace of mind for your business or home. Contact a board up service to learn more about their services and to schedule an inspection.