The Benefits of Boarding Up Doors and Windows
The practice of boarding up windows and doors is a great strategy to stop vandalism, theft, as well as occupation by squatters. It also helps keep properties safe until professional restoration services can start repairs.
In many cases, a property is required to be boarded up after an emergency. The earlier you can board a property after an emergency, whether it's a fire or civil unrest the better.
Security
The act of boarding up a property is often an preventative measure, particularly when the property is damaged in any way and cannot be repaired in a timely manner. It helps to prevent vandalism and unauthorised access as well as protect the property from weather damage such as rain and snow. Boarding up a property will also lower the chance of a fire if the property is unoccupied.
If you're considering boarding your home it is recommended to hire professionals. They have the experience and expertise to do it quickly and efficiently, and they'll know how to secure your property. They will have all the materials and tools required to complete the task. If you decide to board up your property, it is an extremely labor-intensive and time-consuming task.
When you're boarding up your home it is important to think about all possible entry points. While doors and windows are the most obvious, it's vital to secure all other entrances that could be used by squatters or thieves. These might include skylights, basements or even delivery points such as cellar access in pubs and bars.
Based on the situation it could be necessary to improve the security of your home by installing steel security doors. They are designed to be more difficult to get into with than plywood, and can be secured with anti-tamper fixings that require a specialized tool to take them off.
Steel security doors are also designed to be flush with the window or opening as much as is possible. They are cut precisely to size so that there is no gap where criminals could make use of a bar to open the door open. They can be positioned on any kind of frame such as uPVC timber, crittall, and aluminum.
It is important to secure your home or office if you live in a location that is known for its crime. It's a good idea consider adding other forms of security for vacant property in addition, such as wireless CCTV, concrete barriers and security guards with a licence.
Insurance
The physical barrier that is created by boarding windows and doors can help to deter vandals, trespassers, and squatters. It also makes it harder for them to gain access to the property, reducing theft or other damages. The act of boarding up a home protects it from elements such as rain snow, wind and rain. It will help prevent the damage caused by weather, and stop water leaks that could cause mould growth.
If preparing a home for a time without occupants, landlords and managing agents must cover the walls with a sheet of plywood. This lets them meet the requirements set by their insurance companies and ensure that they are covered even though the property is vacant. It also complies with the Code of Practice for Unoccupied Buildings that requires a range of precautions to be taken such as turning off the water and gas supply, removing waste, and closing the letterboxes.
Insurance policies usually provide for both property damage insurance and emergency mitigation services, such as closing windows and doors. To ensure a smooth and precise process, it's important to work with contractors who have experience working with insurance companies. Keep meticulous documents of all correspondence with your insurance company, contractor and receipts for emergency boarding services.
Maintenance
Boarding up your home or business's windows and doors is a vital protection against damage caused by storms. It also helps keep out animals like raccoons, squirrels and pests and other animals who might want to move in and establish themselves as a home. In addition, it stops rain and snow from further causing damage to fixtures and furniture.
The board-up process should be completed as soon as you can before a major storm hits. The earlier doors and windows are boarded up, the better. It is essential to take into consideration local ordinances and obtain the necessary permits prior to starting work. Furthermore, the owner of the property must examine the building for any signs of damage that may require further inspection.
The first thing that a reputable emergency boarding service will do is take measurements of the entrances including doors and windows. Then, they will cut plywood sheets to the required size. Once the measurements are finalized and they have the measurements, they will use corrosion resistant screws to attach the plywood to the wall studs. If the structure is constructed of brick, stone, or concrete then the screws need to be anchored to masonry plugs placed in the studs.
After the plywood is glued to the studs it is essential to put in locks and secure the hinges of the doors to ensure that they are not able to be taken off. The plywood is then sanded, painted and given a nice finish.
Steel is a better alternative to plywood to board up windows and doors. This is because steel will last much longer than plywood and will be more difficult for people who are squatters to gain access the property.
When you are preparing to board your doors and windows, it is important that you take the safety precautions necessary when working with power tools and shattered glass. Always wear safety gear and work in pairs when using ladders and tools. Be sure to keep an eye on forecasts for possible storms, and prepare accordingly. If you leave your business or home without supervision can cause serious damage that could cost you thousands of dollars to repair.