Why Boarding Up Doors and Windows Is Necessary
The boarding up of windows and doors is a necessary step in securing the structure before a storm hits. This can protect your property from theft and vandalism.
A vacant structure is a magnet for vandals, thieves, and squatters. A professional board-up will include carriage bolts which can only be removed on the inside, and will be weighed for the door frames.
Protection against vandals
Vacant property can be an ideal target for vandals thieves and squatters. Placing a fence around a home that is damaged, broken down or destroyed can provide the best protection against thieves. This is particularly important for homes and businesses which are in the process of renovations or construction. The building might be empty for a period of time, and blocking doors and windows will prevent criminals from entering until the work is finished.
In addition to protecting your home from vandals, a boarding-up service can help to protect your property from weather-related damage. Criminals are attracted to damaged or broken doors or window since they can see inside. A boarding up service will ensure that all windows and doors are shut and that any entry points are screened to block debris, water and cold air from entering the structure.
Plywood is typically used to cover windows, but it doesn't offer the same level of security as steel security screens. emergency boarding up 24/7 is usually fixed to the ground using screws that are easily removed by offenders with the appropriate tools. By contrast, the specialist anti-tamper fixings that are used to fix steel screens in place are extremely difficult to remove without the proper tools.
In addition, securing entry points of your vacant investment property with steel screens is less expensive than plywood boarding. The initial cost is negligible compared to any potential damage or loss that may result from vandalism or a break-in on a vacant property.
In addition professional board up service can also install doors that are secured with locking mechanisms. These locks will protect your property from squatters and criminals, and will also give peace of mind to homeowners going to vacation. It's also a good idea to have a family member or a neighbor check on the property regularly to ensure that it is still being looked after. These simple measures can keep burglars away from attacking your business or home. The most important thing is to take proactive measures to safeguard your investment property before issues begin.
Animal protection
The boards protect you from animals that might try to gain access to your property due to different reasons, such as shelter for the night or curiosity. If an animal gets inside the home, it can cause a myriad of issues, from damage to the structure to health hazards. The act of boarding up doors and windows can help keep out animals which could be a danger while also keeping children and pets safe too. It should be noted, however, that openings on second or higher floors should not be boarding if they can only be accessible via ladders or are accessible from adjoining homes or stairwells.
Protection from the elements
The boards guard doors and windows from damage by debris and wind during a storm. In addition it helps prevent break-ins and vandalism. The owner of a business or home will determine the ideal time to secure their doors and windows based on the severity of the weather. The earlier the boarding is completed, the better protection for the property.
The boards can be secured using screws or nails. It is recommended to use nails that are long enough to pass through the plywood and into the door frame. It is also possible to use steel security doors that are fixed using friction and anti-tampering screws. This combination makes it impossible to remove the panels with a crowbar, and offers the same degree of security as traditional timber boards.
It is essential to analyze the situation before embarking on the boarding process to ensure that the correct materials are used and the best approach. This will save you time and money, while also providing the highest level of security. The assessment should include assessing vulnerability, identifying possible problems, and determining whether reinforcements are needed. To make the process of boarding easier and more secure, it is essential to remove any obstructions and furniture from the area.
The team will prepare the frame and door to allow for the installation of the board by cleaning the surface and taking out any hardware. They will also make any needed repairs. The area should be sanded to ensure a perfect fit and help the boards resist the forces of the force of wind and other forces. It is also an excellent idea to mark the plywood boards with the name of the door or window they are intended for, to avoid confusion and permit easy identification.
After the boards have been marked, they will be cut to size and fitted over the openings and vulnerable areas of the structure. Screws should be inserted every few inches to hold the boards securely in place. Drilling pilot holes is a good idea to avoid splitting and make insertion easier. The boards are able to be caulked to stop leaks and to improve weather resistance.
Protection from pests
A vacant building is basically an open door for squirrels, raccoons, mice and rats seeking shelter or food. These animals can cause serious damage to a building and pose health hazards which include the spread of disease. By boarding up windows and doors you can stop insects from entering and infesting the structure.
While it's important to board up entry points, you must ensure that any gaps along the perimeter of your structure are sealed. For instance the pests of mice and spiders can get through cracks that are as small as the size of a quarter. Installing door sweeps and weather strips on all exterior doors will reduce gaps.
Also, you should take away organic debris from your business or home. Keep mulch and pine straw at minimum 12 to 14 inches from the building's foundation. Remove tree branches from the siding or roof by 12 to 14 in. Remove any weeds that are growing near the base of your building. This will prevent pests from finding their way into your property and causing damage.
Air curtains are another way to keep pests out of an empty space. It is a large industrial ceiling fan that blows air over windows doors, entranceways, and even doors. This stops flying insects and other pests out, and it can be used in places like back shipping doors and drive-thru windows in restaurants.
Be aware, however, that it isn't necessary to board up openings above the first floor unless they are accessible by means of a ladder. They can be used as a fire escape or a staircase. Avoid boarding up windows and doors in a structure that is occupied squatters as this could create an impression of abandonment which can encourage criminal activity. If you're not sure what to do about an empty building you should consult an expert boarding service to board up any openings and create the impression that the property is still in use.