Why Boarding Up Doors and Windows Is Necessary
Before a storm, you should board up all doors and windows. This can help protect the property from vandalism, theft and destruction.
A vacant structure is a magnet for thieves, vandals and squatters. A professional board-up will include carriage bolts which are only removed from the inside, and will be measured for the door frames.
Protection against vandals
Properties that are vacant can be a big draw for vandals, thieves and squatters. The security provided by boarding up a home that is damaged, destroyed or broken down can be invaluable. This is particularly important for businesses and homes which are in the process of renovations or construction. It's possible that the structure will be empty for a period of time and boarding up the doors and windows blocks access for criminals until the work is complete.
In addition to protecting your home from vandals, a boarding up service can also safeguard your home from damage caused by weather. Criminals are attracted by damaged or broken doors or window since they can see inside. A boarding up service will ensure that all windows and doors are shut and that any entry points are secured to prevent water, debris and cold air from getting into the structure.
Plywood is often used to cover windows, however it doesn't offer the same level of protection as steel security screens. Plywood is usually affixed to the ground using screws that are easily removed by offenders with the proper tools. However, the specialized anti-tamper fixings that are used to fix steel screens into place are very difficult to remove without the appropriate tool.
In addition, securing entry points of your investment property that is vacant with steel screens is less expensive than plywood boarding. The cost upfront is not worth the potential loss or damage that may result from a break in or vandalism on a vacant property.
In addition an expert boarding up service will install doors that are secured with locking mechanisms. These locks will keep out squatters and criminals, and offer peace of mind for homeowners going to vacation. It is also a good idea to have a friend or neighbor keep an eye on the property frequently to ensure that it's being taken care of. These simple measures can deter burglars and other criminals from attacking your business or home. It is essential to take proactive measures to safeguard your investment property.
Animals are protected from
The boards protect you from animals that may attempt to gain access to your property for various reasons, such as shelter for the night or just curiosity. 24 hour boarding up service near me that get into the home can cause many problems, ranging from damage to the structure to health risks. Boarding up windows and doors can aid in keeping dangerous animals out and keep children and pets safe. It should be noted that openings on second or higher floors should not be boarded if they can only be accessible via ladders or are accessible from adjacent properties or stairwells.
Protection against the elements
The act of boarding up windows and doors shields them from wind and debris damage during the storm. It also helps prevent vandalism and burglaries. Depending on the nature of the weather, a homeowner or business owner can decide when it is appropriate to seal up windows and doors. The sooner the boarding is completed, the better protection for the property.
The boards can be secured using screws or nails. It is best to use nails long enough to penetrate the plywood and reach the door frame. You can also use steel security doors that are firmly anchored by friction and anti-tampering screws. This makes the doors impossible to take off using a crowbar and gives the same level of security as traditional wooden boards.
It is essential to analyze the situation before taking the time to make sure that the right materials are utilized and the most effective method of operation. This will help you save time and money while ensuring the highest level of protection possible. The assessment should include assessing the vulnerability and identifying potential issues and determining whether reinforcements are needed. To make the boarding process easier and safer, it is important to eliminate any obstacles and furniture from the area.
Once the site is ready to be boarding the team will then prepare the door and frame by cleaning the surface, removing all hardware, and making any needed repairs. The area must be sanded in order to ensure a perfect fit and allow the boards to resist the forces of wind and other forces. To avoid confusion, it is an ideal idea for the plywood boards to be branded with the name of the window or door they are intended to fit.
Once the boards have been marked, they will be cut to size and placed over the gaps and vulnerable areas of the structure. Screws are inserted every few inches in order to ensure the boards are secured. It is recommended to drill pilot holes before inserting screws to prevent splitting and make it easier to insert. The boards can be sealed to prevent leaks and increase the weather resistance.
Protection from insects
A building that is unoccupied is an invitation for raccoons, squirrels, and mice to find shelter or food. These animals can cause significant damage to a building and pose health hazards, including the spread of diseases. By boarding windows and doors you can stop pests from entering and infesting the structure.
It's not enough to just board up the entry points. It is also necessary to seal any gaps around your structure. For example, mouse pests can get through gaps that are less than 1/16 of an inch in width and spiders can get through cracks that are the size of quarters. Installing door sweeps and weather strips on all exterior doors will reduce gaps.
Also, you should remove organic debris around your home or business. Keep pine straw and mulch at least 12 to 14 inches away from the foundation of your building. Remove tree branches from the siding or roof by approximately 12 to 14 inches. Remove any weeds that have grown close to the base of your structure. This will help to prevent insects from getting into your property and causing more damage.
Air curtains are another method to keep pests out of an unfinished structure. This is basically an industrial-sized fan affixed to the ceiling, and it creates a stream of air over the doors, windows and entryways. It can be used to keep insects from entering the home. It can also be used for restaurants with drive-thru windows and back shipping doors.
Be aware, however, that it's not necessary board up openings above the first floor unless they're easily accessible without the use of a ladder. They could be used as a fire escape or an staircase. Also, you should avoid boarding up doors and windows in a building that is occupied by squatters, since this can create the impression of abandonment and attract criminal activities. If you're unsure of how to do with a property that is vacant, hire a professional board service to cover any openings to create the illusion that it is still being used.