The Importance of Boarding Up
Boarding up damaged property is a common measure to secure the property following an incident. It deters theft, reduces pedestrians' access to the fire site and reduces the damage caused by smoke to carpeting or upholstery.
Plywood or steel can be used to frame windows. Steel is more expensive, however it lasts longer and provides more security.
Security
In the aftermath of an natural disaster or another property damage, it can be easy to forget that safeguarding your home is as crucial as repairing and restoring. Boarding up can help to protect your structure from further damage and vandalism, and it will stop criminals and squatters seeking to profit from the situation.
By boarding up a structure it is possible to stop further damage from falling debris or water. It also provides the security of your children and pets. Additionally the boarding up process can shield vacant buildings from the threat of vandalism and burglary. To effectively guard your vacant property, you have to implement a security strategy that combines traditional physical protection with the latest technology and expert services.
One of the most important things you can do when boarding up your home is to secure all entry points. Windows and doors are the obvious places to start but you must also consider entrances that might not be considered a typical entry point, but could be used as such by criminals like skylights and basements.
Another crucial aspect of a security strategy for vacant buildings is to use the appropriate materials. Plywood will warp over time and then pull away from fixtures. Steel is more expensive but will last forever and provide more security than plywood.
You should opt for 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 they will not require the window to be taken out, which can cause significant damage to the frame or glass. Compression security screens are designed to provide an easy-to-install board solution. They are as secure as a Perforated Steel screen, and are less likely to damage the frame or window.
Effective physical security is built on the concept of defence-in depth, that is, a combination of security controls that are designed to discourage those who are deterred and also delay those who can't. In the end, no security control measure can be 100 100% effective against an adversary that is well-equipped and determined. Combining a successful board-up security strategy with surveillance and monitoring technologies will increase the chances that your vacant property will be left unoccupied.
Waterproofing
When a structure is damaged through an incident, such as a natural disaster or fire, it can open doors, windows and walls open to the elements. By boarding up the area, you can avoid further damage, and also offers security against vandals and trespassers while the property is being repaired and rebuilt.
A good boarding-up service should include waterproofing as a part of the overall solution. Waterproofing prevents moisture from entering the structure and result in mold or rot. It also helps reduce the possibility of structural damage, and also saves on the expense of maintenance. It is an investment that will increase the value of your home or commercial space.
While it is important to secure the building with boards, it is not an effective security method. Defence in depth is the foundation of a secure security. It is crucial to add layers, rather than removing them. A secure boarding-up is a deterrent to criminals as they attempt to gain access via other routes.
In boarding up services southend to the obvious openings such as windows and doors and windows, a full survey must be carried out and include other potential access points such as a fire escape ladder or access point on an open roof. These can be difficult to block and are often overlooked by squatters or looters.
After the boarding up is completed, it's vital to conduct a final inspection to ensure there aren't any hazards and that the panels are all securely secured. This will allow for easy reinstallation if necessary.
Another benefit of boarding up a building is that it can reduce further losses from insurance claims. Many insurance companies support the proactive approach and will be more likely to approve an insurance claim if the insured has taken precautions to safeguard the property from the possibility of further damage. This can be particularly important when the damage was caused by storms or other weather-related issues. In these instances it is crucial to ensure that the building has been boarded up as soon as possible to minimize any further damage and to prevent the need for costly repair work.
Damage Prevention
After a natural catastrophe, property owners must take extra precautions to safeguard their home from further damage. The idea of boarding up doors and windows that have been damaged is an example of this step. Whether it's because of storm damage or a fire, this is often essential to prevent further damage, theft or even squatters from entering the building while waiting for the permanent repairs to be completed.
The board up of a structure is done with OSB or plywood that is cut to the right size and secured with nails. Basic carpentry skills are needed for this. It is best to delegate this task to professionals who have the right tools and know-how to board up a secure building. Professionals know which kind of plywood is most for the climate of the area in which the building is situated and can also add carriage screws to secure the building. They will also ensure that there are no safety risks such as protruding nails or screws that could cause injuries to anyone who enters 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 term. If you're a business owner, this is particularly important. If, for example, the window is damaged in a hurricane, your customers are unlikely to return. A damaged window could make your store appear unattractive and could cause theft.
Your insurance policy could pay for the cost of boarding. Almost every property policy has a clause that covers the cost of emergency services, including protecting properties after being damaged by flood, wind or other natural disasters. Not boarding up your property promptly after such damage can provide the insurance company with grounds to deny your claim, or at the very least, hold you responsible for any additional/secondary damages caused by negligence.
A boarding-up will not only shield your home from further damage, but also from squatters and animals. Squatters are attracted to vacant homes because they are easily smashed into, and could cause thousands of damage within a short time. A boarding can not only prevent them from gaining entry into your home but also helps to preserve the belongings you've rescued from the fire. This includes drapes, furniture, and other items that could otherwise be destroyed due to soot or ash from the fire.
Insurance
The homeowner's insurance policies typically cover the cost of repairing and reconstructing structures and belongings damaged by covered hazards. However, some include provisions for emergency mitigation, for example, boarding up windows. However, the exact terms vary. A certified disaster restoration contractor will guide you through the process and make sure that your insurance coverage is adequate.
The act of boarding up a building has several benefits for homeowners, including protection against further damage, theft, and other external elements. The process can also be used to deter unwanted vandalism or trespassers 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.
In the process of boarding up, trained technicians will inspect the property and secure any openings with plywood or another material to limit exposure. They will also seal the property to protect it from damage caused by wind and water, and check for safety hazards like protruding nails or screws. Once the boarding up is completed, the team will take care to clean up any debris and other materials to ensure the area is safe.
When the board-up process is complete, the homeowner can be at ease knowing that their property will be secured until it is repaired or replaced. In some instances it may be possible for the property owner to keep their insurance coverage, since it is possible that any additional damage would be considered negligence.
Hiring a professional boarding service is the best way to secure any commercial or residential property. These companies are trained to assess the damage and secure any exposed areas with boards, and provide peace of mind for homeowners during a stressful time. They will also work with your insurance company to ensure you receive the coverage you deserve.
It is essential to act fast to safeguard your property if your property has been damaged by a storm, fire or other occurrence. A reputable boarding service will offer security, protection against further destruction, and peace of mind for your home or office. Contact a board up service to find out more about their services and to set up an inspection.