The Importance of Boarding Up
Boarding up damaged property is a common measure to protect it following a disaster. It lowers the risk of theft, reduces the amount of foot traffic on the site, and reduces smoke damage on carpets and upholstery.
The process of boarding up can be accomplished using plywood or steel sheeting. Steel is more costly, however it lasts longer and offers higher levels of security.
Security
In the wake of an natural disaster or another property damage, it could be easy to forget that securing your home is as crucial as repairing and fixing. The act of boarding up can help to protect your structure from further vandalism and damage, and it will deter squatters and criminals seeking opportunities to take advantage of the situation.
A building that is boarded up will protect it from further damage caused by flying debris or water as well as ensuring the safety of pets and children. The act of boarding up vacant homes will also shield the property from burglary or vandalism. To protect your vacant property effectively, you will need to implement a strategy that incorporates physical security with the latest 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 start however, you should be aware of entrances that may not be a conventional entry point, but could be used as such by criminals, such as skylights and basements.
Another crucial aspect of a security plan for vacant buildings is to use the right materials. Plywood is a common choice, but it can get warped and pull away from fixtures over time. Steel is more expensive, but it will last for a long time and provide greater security than plywood.
Choose steel security screens which can be positioned externally on windows above the ground. They are less difficult to install than Sitex security screen panels, and do not require the window to be taken out in order to cause damage to the frame or glass. Security screens designed for compression are made to provide a simple boarding solution. They are as safe as Perforated Steel screen, but less likely to cause damage to the window or frame.
Effective physical security is based on the concept of defence in depth, which involves creating multiple layers of security controls designed to deter those that can be stopped and deter those who cannot. In the end, no security measure is 100% effective against an adversary who is well-equipped and determined. However, combining a reliable board up security plan with surveillance and monitoring technologies can significantly improve the odds of your vacant property being unoccupied.
Waterproofing
If a building has been damaged by a natural disaster, fire or another event windows, doors, and walls may be left open to the elements. The boarding up of the area prevents further damage and also provides security against trespassers or vandals until the property is repaired and reoccupied.
A good boarding-up service should include waterproofing as part of the overall solution. Waterproofing prevents moisture from entering the structure, causing mold and rot. It also reduces the risk of structural damages and saves money on maintenance. Waterproofing can increase the value of your business or home.
While securing the building using boards is crucial however, it is important to remember that it isn't an all-encompassing security solution. Effective security is based on the concept known as defence in depth. It is an issue of adding layers, not removing them. However, an effective boarding-up solution that is secure can deter most criminals as they will try to gain entry through other routes.
A complete review of all possible access points, including fire escape ladders and access points near flat roofs, must be conducted. These can be difficult to block and are often overlooked by looters or squatters.
Once the boarding-up has been completed, it's important to perform a final inspection to ensure that there are no safety hazards and that all panels have been secured together correctly. This will allow for easy installation if needed.
Another advantage of boarding an area is that it can to reduce the loss from insurance claims. Many insurers will pay out claims when the insured takes proactive measures to protect their property from further damage before it occurs. This is particularly crucial when the damage was caused by weather-related storms or other issues. In these cases, it is important to board up the building immediately to avoid further damage and to avoid costly repairs.
Prevention of Damage
After a natural catastrophe, property owners must take extra precautions in order to protect their property from further damage. One way to do this is to put up a board on any doors or windows that have been damaged. This is necessary regardless of whether it's because of storm damage or fire damage to prevent further damage and theft.
Buildings are usually done with OSB or plywood, which is cut to size and then secured by nails. Basic carpentry skills are required to do this. It is recommended to leave this task to professionals who have the right tools and know-how to put up a secure building. Professionals will also know what kind of plywood to choose based on the climate where the structure is located and can add carriage bolts for security. They will also ensure that there aren't any dangers to safety like protruding screws or nails that could inflict injury on anyone who is able to enter the structure in the future.
In addition to the obvious security benefits, boarding up your business or home can help save you money in the long in the long run. This is especially important if you own a business. If, for instance, a window breaks in a hurricane, your customers are unlikely to come back. A damaged window can make your store look uninviting and could lead to theft.
Your insurance policy may cover the cost of the cost of boarding. Most property policies have a provision that covers the cost of emergency services, which includes protecting properties after being damaged by flooding, wind or other natural disasters. If you don't board up your property as soon as you can after such damage the insurance company may reject your claim or hold you responsible for additional/secondary damages.
In addition to protecting your home from further damage, a board up can also keep it safe from animals and squatters. Squatters are known for their petty attacks on empty homes, particularly when they are easily broken into and cause thousands of dollars of damage in a short amount of time. A boarding will not only deter them from breaking into your house, but will also help to protect the items you've managed to save after a fire. This includes furniture, drapes, and other items that could otherwise be destroyed by smoke or ash from the fire.
Insurance
Most standard homeowner's insurance policies are designed to cover cost of repairing and building structures and possessions damaged by the covered dangers However, many policies also include the provision of emergency mitigation services which may include boarding windows. Specifics can vary. A certified disaster restoration professional will assist you through the process, and will make sure that your insurance coverage is adequate.
Boarding up a building offers numerous benefits for property owners, such as protecting against further damage, theft and other external elements. This method can also be used to discourage unwanted vandalism or trespassers that could cause further damage to the property. It also reduces the possibility of an fire, which could cause more damage to the structure.
When boarding up, trained boarding up a doorway will inspect the property and seal any gaps using plywood or another material to limit exposure. They will then seal the property to protect it from damage from water and wind and look for safety hazards such as protruding nails or screws. After the boarding-up process is completed, the team will take care to clean up any debris and other materials to ensure that the area is secure.
After the board-up is completed, the property owner can rest sure that their home will be secured until it is repaired or replaced. In some instances it may be possible for them to retain their insurance coverage, as it is possible that any additional damage would be considered negligent.
The best way to protect your home or commercial property is by hiring a professional boarding up service. These companies can assess the extent of damage, secure open areas with boards and provide peace of mind for property owners during an uncertain time. They will also work closely with your insurance provider to ensure that you receive the coverage you deserve.
It's important to act quickly to safeguard your property if your property was damaged by a fire, storm or other occurrence. A reputable boarding up service can offer security, protection from further damage, and peace of peace of mind for your business or home. To find out more about a board-up service and to set up an appointment, call them.