Why Boarding Up Still Matters In 2024

The Importance of Boarding Up

The practice of boarding up damaged property is a common measure to secure the property following the occurrence of a disaster. It deters theft, reduces the amount of foot traffic at the fire site and reduces the damage caused by smoke to carpeting and upholstery.

Plywood or steel can be used to board up windows. Steel is more expensive, however it lasts longer and provides greater security.

Security

In the aftermath of an natural disaster or another property damage, it can be easy to forget that securing your building is as important as fixing and restoring. Boarding up your property can help protect the structure from further damage and vandalism and discourage criminals and squatters seeking to profit from the situation.

By boarding up a structure will help prevent further damage caused by falling debris or water. Additionally, you can provide the security of your pets and children. The act of boarding up vacant homes can also protect them from burglary or vandalism. To protect your vacant property effectively, you'll need to devise a plan that integrates physical protection with the latest technology and expert services.

One of the most important things to do when you are boarding up your building is to secure all entry points.  www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk  and doors are the obvious places to start, but you should be aware of entrances that may not be a conventional entrance point but could be used by criminals like basements and skylights.

Another crucial aspect of a security plan for vacant structures is to make use of the appropriate materials. Plywood is prone to warping over time and then pull away from fixtures. Steel is a more costly material, but it will last indefinitely and offers far more security than plywood.

Ideally, you should choose security screens made of steel that can be attached externally to windows that are above the ground. They are easier to install than Sitex security screens, and won't require removal of the window, which can cause damage to the frame or glass. Compression security screens are created to offer a rapid deployment boarding solution that is as secure as Perforated Steel screens and is less likely to cause damage to frames or windows.

Effective physical security relies on the concept of defence in depth. This involves creating multiple layers of security measures designed to stop those who can be stopped and deter those that cannot. In the end, no single security control measure is 100% effective against an adversary that is well-equipped and determined. Combining an effective board-up security method with surveillance and monitoring technology can improve the odds that your vacant property will remain unoccupied.

Waterproofing

If a structure is damaged by an event like a natural disaster or fire, it may leave windows, doors and walls open to the elements. A boarded-up area helps prevent further damage and also provides protection against vandals or trespassers until the property is repaired and re-occupied.

A good boarding-up service will include waterproofing as part of the overall plan. Waterproofing prevents moisture from entering the structure, which can cause mold and rot. It also reduces the risk of structural damage and helps save the cost of maintenance. Waterproofing can boost the value of your business or home.

While the idea of securing buildings with boards is important however, it is important to remember that it's not an all-encompassing security solution. Defence in depth is the foundation of a secure security. It is essential to add layers rather than removing them. A secure boarding-up is a deterrent to criminals as they attempt to gain access through other means.

In addition to the obvious openings such as windows and doors, a full survey should be completed and include possible access points like a fire escape ladder or access point near a flat roof. 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 there are no safety hazards and that all panels have been secured together correctly. This will allow for easy reinstallation in the future in the event of a need.

The process of boarding up a structure will also reduce the amount of insurance claims. Many insurance companies favor an approach that is proactive and will be more likely to pay out an amount if the insured has taken steps to protect the property in advance of any further damage that may occur. This is particularly true if the damage resulted from an event or other weather-related issue. In these instances, it is important to put up a temporary fence immediately to avoid further damage and to avoid expensive repair work.

Damage Prevention

In the wake of a natural catastrophe, property owners must to take extra precautions to shield their structures from further damage. One way to do this is to secure any windows or doors that have been impacted. This is essential regardless of the cause, whether it's fire damage or storm damage to prevent further damage and theft.

The boarding up of a building is done using OSB or plywood that is cut to the proper size and then secured by nails. Basic carpentry skills are required for this. However, it's usually best to leave this task to professionals who have the appropriate tools and know-how of how to board up the structure safely. Professionals will also know what kind of plywood to use depending on the climate in which the structure is situated, and can add carriage bolts for security. They will also ensure that there aren't any safety hazards such as protruding nails or screws that could cause injuries to anyone who enters the building in the future.

Apart from the obvious security benefits, boarding your home or business can help you save money in the long in the long run. This is especially important if you own a business. If a window is damaged during a hurricane, for instance, it's likely your customers won't return. A broken window also makes your store appear unattractive and can lead to theft.

The cost of boarding up can be covered by your insurance policy. Most policies for property owners include an option to cover costs of emergency services. This includes securing damaged properties following wind or flood catastrophes. If you don't board up your property as soon as is possible after such damage, the insurance company may reject your claim or hold you responsible for additional/secondary damages.

A boarding up will not only shield your home from further damage, but also from animals and squatters. Squatters target vacant homes because they are easily broken into and can cause thousands in damage in a short amount of time. A boarding can not only deter them from breaking into your house, but will also help to preserve the belongings you've saved after a fire. This includes drapes, furniture and other items that could otherwise be destroyed by soot or ash residue from the fire.

Insurance

The majority of homeowner's insurance policies are designed to cover cost of repairing and building structures and possessions damaged by covered perils however, some policies also provide provisions for emergency mitigation services which may include boarding up windows. The specifics of the policy can vary. A certified disaster restoration specialist can help navigate the process and ensure you have adequate coverage.

The process of boarding up a structure has many benefits to homeowners, 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. In addition, it could reduce the risk of a fire, which could cause further damage to the structure.

When boarding up trained technicians will inspect the property to ensure that all openings are sealed with plywood or other materials. This will limit the potential exposure of the property. They will then seal the property to prevent damage from water and wind and look for safety hazards, such as protruding screws or nails. After the boarding is done the team will take away any debris or other items to ensure the security of the area.

After the board-up is completed The homeowner can rest sure that their home will be protected until it is repaired or replaced. In some instances, this may even allow the property owner to keep their insurance coverage, as it is likely that any additional damage would be considered negligent.

A professional boarding company is the best option to protect any commercial or residential property. These specialized companies will assess the damage, secure open areas with boards and provide peace of mind for property owners during an uncertain moment. They can also work closely with your insurance provider to ensure you receive the protection you need.

It's important to act quickly to safeguard your property if your building has been damaged by storm, fire or other event. A reputable boarding service can provide security, protection against future damage and peace of assurance for your business or home. Contact a board up service to find out more about their services and schedule an inspection.