Why Boarding Up Doors and Windows Is Necessary
In the event of a storm, cover up all doors and windows. This can help protect the property from vandalism, theft and damages.
A vacant structure is a magnet for thieves, vandals, and squatters. A professional board-up will have carriage bolts that are able to be removed from the inside and will be sized to fit door frames.
Protection from vandals
Properties that are vacant can be an attractive target for vandals, thieves, and squatters. The protection provided by boarding up and burglary repairs up a home that is damaged, destroyed, or broken down can be a huge benefit. This is especially crucial for homes and businesses which are in the process of renovations or construction. The building might be empty for a while, so boarding up windows and doors will prevent criminals from entering until the work is completed.
In addition to protecting your home from vandals, a boarding-up service can also help protect your property from weather damage. A damaged or broken door or window is a tempting target for criminals as they can see inside your home. A boarding service can ensure that all doors and windows are shut, and every entry point is secured to stop cold air, water, and debris from entering the structure.
Plywood is often used to block windows, but it does not provide the same level of security as steel security screens. Plywood is usually affixed to the ground using screws that can be removed by infractions using the proper tools. The specialist anti-tampering fixings used to secure the screens of steel are extremely hard to remove without the right tools.
Additionally, securing the entry points of your vacant investment property using steel screens is more affordable than boarding with plywood. The small upfront cost of the materials is a small amount in comparison to the risk of damage or loss caused by a break-In or act of vandalism in an empty building.
In addition professional boarding up service can install doors with locking mechanisms. These locks will keep squatters and criminals away and provide homeowners with peace of mind when they go away on vacation. It's important to have a neighbor or friend keep an eye on the property frequently to ensure that it's being looked after. These simple steps will stop thieves from targeting your business or home. It is important to take proactive measures to protect your investment property.
Animal protection
The boards protect you from animals that may attempt to gain access to your property due to different reasons, including shelter for the night or to satisfy curiosity. If a pet is allowed inside the house, it could cause a myriad of issues, ranging from structural damage to health hazards. emergency boarding up cost up windows and doors can aid in keeping dangerous animals out and keep pets and children safe. The openings on the second and higher floor should not be fenced off if they are only accessible by ladder, or if they are only accessible from adjacent properties, stairwells, or fire escapes.
Protection against the elements
The act of boarding up windows and doors shields them from debris and wind damage during an incoming storm. It also helps in preventing vandalism and burglaries. Based on the nature of the weather, a homeowner or business owner can decide if it is appropriate to seal the doors and windows. The earlier the boarding is done and the better protection the property will be given.
The boards can be secured using nails or screws. It is best to use nails long enough to penetrate the plywood and reach the door frame. Alternately, you can opt for steel security doors which are wedged in place using friction and anti-tamper screws. This combination makes it impossible to remove the panels using a crowbar and provides the same level of security as traditional timber boards.
Before boarding up, it is crucial to evaluate the situation in order to select the appropriate materials and method. This will save you time and money while ensuring the most effective level of protection. The assessment should include assessing vulnerability and identifying potential issues and determining if reinforcement is required. To make the process of boarding up company near me easier and safer, it is important to remove any obstacles and furniture from the area.
The team will then prepare the door and frame for installation of the boards by cleaning the surface and getting rid of any hardware. They will also make any needed repairs. The area must be sanded to ensure a seamless fit and allow the boards to withstand wind and other forces. It is also a good idea to mark the plywood boards with the name of the window or door they are designed for to avoid confusion and ensure easy identification.
Once the boards have been marked, they will be cut to size and placed over the gaps and vulnerable areas of the building. Screws should be placed every few inches to secure the boards securely. It is a good idea to drill pilot holes prior inserting the screws to avoid splitting and make it easier to insert. The boards are then securely secured using caulking to reduce leaks and enhance weather resistance.
Protection from pests
A building that is not in use is an invitation for raccoons, squirrels and mice to find shelter or food. They can cause significant damage to your property and pose health risks which include spreading diseases. By boarding doors and windows to stop pests from entering the structure and causing damage.
While it's important to board up entry points, you also need to ensure that any gaps around the exterior of your structure are sealed. For instance the pests of mice and spiders can crawl through cracks as small as the size of a quarter. It's essential that you install door sweeps and weather stripping on all exterior doors to close the gaps between these areas.
You should also remove organic debris around your business or home. Keep mulch and pine straw at minimum 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 that have grown near the foundation of your building. This will help to prevent insects from getting into your property and causing further damage.
Another option to stop pests from entering a vacant structure is to install an air curtain. It is an industrial-sized fan mounted to the ceiling, and it blasts a stream of air over doors, windows and entryways. This prevents flying insects and other pests from entering the space, and can be used in places like back shipping doors or drive-thru windows at restaurants.
Be aware, however, that it isn't necessary to board up openings above the first floor unless they're accessible with the aid of a ladder. They can be used as an escape route for fire or an staircase. Do not encase windows and doors in a structure that is occupied people who are squatters, as this can give the impression of being abandoned, which can encourage criminal activity. If you're not sure how to do with a vacant house get a professional boarding service to cover any openings to create the illusion that it is being used.