Why Boarding Up Doors and Windows Is Necessary
The boarding up of windows and doors is an essential step in securing the structure before a storm hits. This can help safeguard the property from theft, vandalism, and damage.
A building that is unoccupied invites vandals, thieves and squatters. A professional board-up should include carriage bolts which can only be removed from the inside, and they will be measured to the door frames.
Protection from vandals
Vacant properties can be a big draw for thieves, vandals and squatters. The security offered by boarding up a property which is damaged, destroyed or smashed down can be invaluable. This is especially crucial for homes and businesses which are in the process of renovations or construction. It is possible that the building will be empty for a period of time, and closing the doors and windows blocks access for criminals until work is complete.
In addition to providing protection from vandals, a boarding up service can also secure your home from weather-related damage. A damaged or damaged door or window is a prime target for burglars since they can see inside your home. A Boarding up doorway-up service will ensure that all the windows and doors are locked and that entry points are secured to stop water, debris and cold air from entering the structure.
Plywood is commonly used to board up windows, however it doesn't provide the same level of security as steel security screens. Plywood is typically attached with screws, which are easily removed by criminals with the proper tools. By contrast, the specialist anti-tamper fixings used to hold steel screens in place are extremely difficult to get rid of without the right tool.
In addition, securing entry points of your vacant investment property with steel screens is more affordable than emergency boarding up service made of plywood. The cost upfront is not worth the potential loss or damage that might be caused by vandalism or break-ins on a vacant property.
A boarding-up company that is professional can also install doors equipped with locking mechanisms. These locks keep criminals and squatters out and give homeowners peace of mind when they are going on vacation. You can also ask a family member or neighbor to check on your property regularly to ensure that it's being maintained. These simple steps will deter thieves from targeting your business or home. The key is to take proactive measures to protect your investment property prior to problems start.
Protection from animals
The boards provide protection against animals that may attempt to gain access to your property due to different reasons, including shelter for the night or curiosity. If an animal gets inside the home, it can cause a wide variety of issues, ranging from structural damage to health risks. By boarding up windows and doors, you can help keep out dangerous animals and keep pets and children safe. It is important to note, however, that openings on second and higher floors should not be boarding in the event that they can only be accessible by ladder or accessible from adjoining homes or stairwells.
Protection from the elements
Boarding up windows and doors protects them from wind and debris damage during the storm. It also helps to prevent vandalism and break-ins. Based on the nature of the weather, a home or business owner can decide when it is appropriate to board the doors and windows. The sooner the boarding process is completed, the better the security for the property.
Boards can be secured with screws or nails. It is recommended to use nails that are long enough to pass through the plywood and into the door frame. Alternately, you can opt for steel security doors which are firmly fixed using friction and anti-tamper screws. This makes the doors impossible to remove with a crowbar and gives the same level of security as traditional wooden boards.
Before taking the time to board up, it is essential to assess the situation and select the appropriate materials and methods. This will save time and money, while also providing the highest degree of security. The assessment should include assessing the vulnerability, identifying possible problems, and determining whether reinforcements are needed. To make the process of boarding up a door more efficient and safer, it is important to remove any obstructions and furniture from the area.
When the area is ready for boarding up company near me the team will then prepare the door and frame by cleaning the surface, removing all hardware, and making any necessary repairs. The area should then be sanded to ensure a good fit for the boards and ensure they can withstand wind and other forces. It is also recommended to mark the plywood boards with the name of the door or window they are intended for to avoid confusion and allow easy identification.
After marking the boards, they are cut to size. They will then be fitted over the openings or vulnerable areas of the structure. Screws should be inserted every few inches to hold the boards securely in place. It is a good idea to drill pilot holes prior inserting the screws to avoid splitting and make it easier to insert. The boards can be caulked to prevent leaks and to improve the weather resistance.
Protection from insects
A vacant building is a perfect place for raccoons, squirrels, and mice to seek shelter or food. These animals can cause serious damage to a building and pose health hazards, including the spread of disease. By boarding up windows and doors, you can stop pests from entering the structure and cause damage.
It's not enough to board up the entry points. You must also seal any gaps around your structure. For example, spiders and mouse pests can get through cracks that are as small as one quarter. Installing door sweeps and weather strips on all doors that are outside can help to reduce gaps.
Also, you should remove any organic debris that is a nuisance around your business or home. Keep mulch and pine straw at about 12-14 inches away from the building's foundation. Trim tree branches from the siding or roof by about 12 to 14 inches. Remove any weeds growing close to the base of your structure. This will prevent pests from getting into your property and cause damage.
Another option to block insects from entering a structure is to employ an air curtain. This is a huge industrial ceiling fan that blows air across windows or doors and entryways. This device can be used to keep insects from entering the house. It is also useful for restaurants with drive-thru windows and back shipping doors.
Keep in mind that it's not necessary to put up a board on openings that are above the first floor unless they are easily accessible without the use of a ladder. They can be used as an escape route for fire or an stairwell. Do not encase windows and doors in a property that is occupied by tenants as it could give an impression of abandonment which could attract criminals. If you are unsure what to do with a property that is vacant get a professional boarding service to cover any gaps to give the impression that it is still being used.