Why Boarding Up Doors and Windows Is Necessary
Before a storm, board up all doors and windows. This can help protect the property from theft, vandalism, and damage.
A building that is unoccupied invites vandals, thieves and squatters. A professional board-up will include carriage bolts that can only be removed from the inside and they will be measured to the door frames.
Protection from vandals
A vacant property is an ideal target for vandals thieves and squatters. Placing a fence around a home that is damaged, broken down or destroyed provides valuable protection from such criminals. This is particularly important for businesses and homes that are under renovation or construction. It's possible that the building will be empty for some time, and boarding up the doors and windows will prevent access for criminals until work is complete.
In addition to offering protection from vandals, a boarding up service can also help secure your home from damage caused by weather. A damaged or broken door or window can be a target for criminals because it allows them to see inside your home. A boarding-up service will ensure that all the windows and doors are closed and that entry points are covered to stop water, debris and cold air from entering the structure.
Plywood is often used to cover windows, but it doesn't offer the same level of security as steel security screens. emergency boarding up leeds is usually attached using screws that can be easily removed by criminals who have the proper tools. In contrast, the special anti-tamper fixings that are used to fix steel screens in place are extremely difficult to remove without the right tool.
In addition, securing the entry points of your investment property that is vacant with steel screens is less expensive than plywood boarding. The small upfront cost of the materials is minimal compared to the potential damage or loss that could be caused by a break-In or vandalism attack on an empty building.
A boarding-up company that is professional can also install doors with locking mechanisms. These locks will protect your property from squatters and criminals, and give peace of mind to homeowners who are going to vacation. You can also ask a family member or a neighbor to inspect your property regularly to ensure it's maintained. These simple steps can deter burglars and other criminals from targeting your home or business. The key is to take proactive measures to protect your investment property prior to problems begin.
Animal protection
The boards protect you from animals who may try to gain access to your property for a variety of reasons, including shelter for the night or curiosity. Animals that get into the home can cause many problems, from structural damage to health hazards. The act of boarding up doors and windows can aid in keeping dangerous animals out, while also keeping pets and children safe. It should be noted however that openings on second and higher floors should not be boarded in the event that they can only be accessible via ladders or are accessible from adjacent properties, stairwells or fire escapes.
Protection from the elements
The act of boarding up windows and doors shields them from wind and debris damage during an incoming storm. It also helps in preventing vandalism and break-ins. The owner of a business or home will determine the ideal time to board up their doors and windows based on the severity of the weather. The earlier the boarding is done and secured, the more protection your property will receive.
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. You can also use steel security door that are wedged into place by friction and anti-tampering screws. This combination makes the panels impossible to take off using the crowbar, and also provides the same level of security as traditional wooden boards.
It is essential to analyze the situation before embarking on the boarding process to ensure that the right materials are used and the most effective method of operation. This will help you save time and money, while ensuring the highest level of protection that is possible. The assessment should include assessing your vulnerability and identifying potential issues and determining if reinforcements are needed. To make the process of boarding simpler and more secure, it is crucial to remove any obstructions and furniture from the area.
Once the site is ready to be boarding the team will prepare the door and frame by cleaning the surface, taking off all hardware, and making any needed repairs. The area should be sanded in order to ensure a good fit for the boards and help them stand up to winds and other forces. It is also a good idea to mark the plywood boards with the name of the window or door they are meant to be used for to avoid confusion and ensure easy identification.
After marking the boards then they are cut to size. They are then installed over the openings or weak areas of the structure. Screws should be placed every few inches to keep the boards securely. Drilling pilot holes is a great idea to prevent splitting and makes insertion simpler. The boards are then solidly secured with caulking to stop leaks and enhance weather resistance.
Pest protection
A building that is vacant is an open invitation to rodents, squirrels, raccoons and rats who are seeking shelter or food. These animals can do considerable damage to property and pose health risks and spread disease. By boarding windows and doors, you can stop insects from entering the structure and cause damage.
It's not enough to board up the entry points. It is also necessary to close any gaps in your structure. For example, mouse pests can squeeze through holes that are about 1/16 inch wide and spiders can get into cracks that are about the size of a quarter. It's important to install door sweeps and weather stripping on all doors to the outside to minimize the gaps in these areas.
It is also important to remove any organic debris that is a nuisance around your business or home. Keep pine straw and mulch at least 12 to 14 inches from the building's foundation. Cut tree branches off the siding or roof by about 12 to 14 inches. Remove any weeds growing near the foundation of your building. This will prevent pests from entering your property and cause damage.
Another method to block insects from entering a structure is to install an air curtain. It is a large industrial ceiling fan that blows air across windows or doors and entryways. It can be used to keep flying insects out of the house. It is also helpful for restaurants with drive-thru windows and back shipping doors.
It is not required to board up openings above the 1st floor, unless the openings are easily accessible and can be used as a fire escape or stairwell, or both. You should also avoid boarding windows and doors in a property that is occupied by squatters as this can create a perception of abandonment and attract criminal activities. If you're not sure how to do with an empty building seek out a professional boarding company to board up any openings and give the impression that the property is still being used.