Why Boarding Up Doors and Windows Is Necessary
The boarding up of windows and doors is a crucial step to secure the structure prior to a storm affecting it. This can protect your property from theft and vandalism.
A vacant property is an invitation to vandals, thieves, and squatters. A professional board-up will contain carriage bolts that can only be removed on the inside and will be weighed for the door frames.
Protection from vandals
A vacant property can be an ideal location for vandals, thieves and squatters. The protection provided by
boarding up windows service up a property that has been damaged, destroyed, or broken down can be a huge benefit. This is especially crucial for homes and businesses that are undergoing renovations or construction. The building might be empty for a while, so boarding up windows and doors will keep criminals out until the work is finished.
A boarding up service will not only shield your home from vandals, but also from weather-related damage. Criminals are attracted to a damaged or broken door or window because they can see inside. A boarding-up service will ensure that all windows and doors are closed and that any entry points are secured to stop water, debris and cold air from getting into the structure.
Plywood is typically used as a
boarding up windows service up solution, but it does not provide the same level of protection as steel security screens. Plywood is often attached with screws, which are easily removed by criminals using the appropriate tools. In contrast, the special anti-tamper fixings that are used to fix screens made of steel are very difficult to remove without the proper tools.
Steel screen is a economical option to secure the entry points to your investment property. The initial cost of the materials is negligible when compared to the possibility of damage or loss caused by a burglary or act of vandalism in an empty building.
A professional boarding-up service can also install doors that have locking mechanisms. These locks can keep out squatters as well as criminals, and offer peace of mind for homeowners who are going on vacation. It's important to have a neighbor or friend visit the property on a regular basis to make sure that it is still being looked after. These simple measures can keep burglars away from attacking your business or home. The key is to take proactive steps to protect your investment property before the issues begin.
Animals are protected from
The boards provide protection from animals that might try to gain access to the property for any reason, such as shelter for the night or just curiosity. If an animal enters the home, it can cause a variety of issues, ranging from structural damage to health risks. The act of boarding up windows and doors helps to keep animals out which could be a danger, keeping pets and children secure as well. Openings on the second or higher floors should not be fenced off in the event that they are only accessible via ladders, or if they are accessible only from nearby properties, stairwells or fire escapes.
Protection from the elements
boarding up doorway up windows and doors protects them from wind and debris damage during the storm. In addition, it helps to stop vandalism and break-ins. A home or business owner will determine the best time to encase their windows and doors depending on the severity of the weather. The earlier the boarding is completed, the better protection for the property.
Boards can be secured with nails or screws. It is recommended to use nails that are long enough to penetrate the plywood and reach the door frame. You can also use steel security doors that are wedged into place with friction and anti-tampering screws. This makes it impossible to remove the panels using a crowbar, and offers the same security level as traditional timber boards.
Before taking the time to board up, it is essential to assess the situation to choose the right materials and approach. This will help you save time and money while providing the most effective level of protection. The assessment should include assessing the location's vulnerability, identifying potential problems and determining whether reinforcement is needed. To make the boarding process simpler and safer, it is important to remove any obstacles and furniture from the area.
Once the site is ready to be boarded, the team will prepare the frame and door by cleaning the surface, taking off all hardware and making needed repairs. The area should be sanded to achieve a smooth fit and help the boards resist the forces of wind and other forces. To avoid confusion, it is a good idea for the plywood boards to be branded with the name of the door or window they are intended to fit.
Once the boards are marked, they will be cut to size and fitted over the openings and vulnerable areas of the structure. Screws are set every few inches in order to ensure the boards' security. Drilling pilot holes is a great idea to avoid splitting and makes insertion simpler. The boards can be solidly secured with caulking to reduce leaks and improve the weather resistance.
Protection from pests
A building that is not in use is an opportunity for squirrels, raccoons and mice to seek shelter or food. These animals can do considerable damage to your property and create health hazards which include spreading diseases. By boarding doors and windows to keep pests from getting in and contaminating the structure.
It's not enough to board up the entry points. It is also necessary to fill in any gaps within your structure. For example mice and spiders can get through cracks even as small as a quarter. Installing door sweeps and weather strips on all doors to the outside will help reduce gaps.
It's also an excellent idea to eliminate organic debris from the areas around your home or commercial property. Keep pine straw and mulch at least 12 to 14 inches away from the building's foundation. Trim tree branches from the siding or roof by 12-14 inches. Remove any weeds that are growing near the foundation of your structure. This will stop pests from gaining entry into your property and causing more damage.
Another method to block insects from entering a vacant structure is to install an air curtain. It is a large industrial ceiling fan that blows air across windows or doors and entryways. This prevents flying insects and other pests from getting in the area, and it is a good idea to use it in areas such as back shipping doors and drive-thru windows at restaurants.
Be aware that it isn't necessary to board-up openings above the 1st level unless the openings are easy to access and could be used as an escape route or stairwell. Also, you should avoid boarding up doors and windows in a property that is occupied by squatters since this can create the impression of abandonment and attract criminal activities. If you're not sure what to do about an empty building you should consult an expert
boarding up a door service to board up any openings and create the impression that the property is still in use.
