Posted on June 26, 2024 12:25 by matan

The Essential Guide to BOARDING UP: Tips and Tricks

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Sometimes, life throws curveballs. Storms rage, accidents happen, and unfortunately, sometimes security becomes a concern. In those moments, knowing how to secure your property efficiently brings peace of mind. That’s where boarding up comes in, it's a practical solution for a variety of situations. Boarding up services add that extra layer of protection when you need it most. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a break-in or preparing for a severe storm, proper boarding up can make all the difference.

Table of Contents:

When You Might Need Boarding Up

Boarding up often gets associated with extreme weather events, but its usefulness goes far beyond just storm prep. Here are just a few instances where boarding up services can be a lifesaver:

After a Break-in

Following a break-in, the last thing you want is to leave your home vulnerable to another incident. Boarding up a damaged door or window acts as a temporary shield, deterring further intrusion. It provides a temporary solution until you can make permanent repairs.

Storm Preparation

This is where boarding up shines. High winds and flying debris are a recipe for broken windows.

Boarding up vulnerable windows and doors beforehand adds a much-needed layer of defence against Mother Nature’s fury. Trust me, seeing your boarded-up house weather the storm unscathed is a HUGE relief.

Vacant Properties

Empty houses, sadly, are easy targets. Vandals often see them as an opportunity, not to mention the potential damage from accidental fires or even squatters.

Boarding up vacant properties safeguards them from unnecessary risk, giving you one less thing to worry about. Consider boarding up as part of your vacant property security plan.

Doing it Right: Best Practices for Boarding Up

You might think boarding up is as simple as nailing some plywood to a window, but like anything, it’s worth doing right. These tips will help you secure your property like a pro:

Choose the Right Materials

While plywood is the go-to, there are other options too. Oriented strand board (OSB) is another strong contender.

Think about the level of security you need and the expected duration of the boarding up when choosing your materials. Ensure your chosen material will provide sufficient protection against potential threats.

Measure Twice, Cut Once

This old carpenter’s adage is golden here. Taking accurate measurements of the windows and doors you need to board up minimizes waste.

Importantly, accurate measuring ensures a snug and secure fit. A tight fit leaves no room for prying, enhancing the effectiveness of your boarding up efforts.

Invest in Heavy-Duty Fasteners

Don't skimp on screws or nails. Opt for heavy-duty ones that can withstand force and the elements. This is not the time for flimsy fixings; use robust fasteners to ensure your boarding remains secure.

Don't Forget Ventilation

If you're boarding up for an extended time, especially in warmer months, make sure to consider ventilation. A small gap or two strategically placed can prevent stuffy air and moisture build-up inside.

Proper ventilation is crucial to maintain air quality and prevent potential issues arising from trapped moisture. Balancing security with ventilation ensures a safe and habitable environment, even during extended boarding up periods.

Seek Professional Help When Needed

If the task seems daunting or you're dealing with a large property, don’t hesitate to call in professionals. Expertly installed boarding provides maximum protection and peace of mind.

Professionals have the experience and expertise to handle complex boarding up jobs efficiently. It’s worth every penny to have the job done right, ensuring your property receives the highest level of protection possible.

Beyond the Basics: Adding Extra Layers of Security

While boarding up forms an excellent primary line of defence, additional measures can be combined for even better protection:

Security Systems

An alarm system adds another layer of security by alerting you and potentially the authorities to any suspicious activity. Rapid response times are crucial in such situations. Consider investing in a security system with a rapid response feature to deter potential intruders effectively.

Security Cameras

Seeing is believing. Security cameras deter crime and provide crucial evidence if an incident occurs, helping the police with their investigations.

Modern security cameras offer features like motion detection and remote monitoring, allowing you to keep an eye on your property from anywhere. Integrating security cameras with your boarding up strategy strengthens your overall property protection.

Motion-Activated Lighting

A well-lit property is less appealing to intruders. Motion-activated lights startle unwanted guests and make them think twice about approaching your property.

Strategically placed motion-activated lighting around your property creates an effective deterrent, discouraging potential intruders from targeting your home or business.

BOARDING UP: A Little Effort, A Lot of Peace of Mind

I can’t stress enough the importance of being prepared. It’s not about living in fear, but about taking sensible steps to protect your haven. When those unexpected situations arise, taking proactive measures, such as boarding up, mitigates risk.

Boarding up not only minimizes potential damage but also gives you precious peace of mind during challenging times. That feeling? Well, that’s priceless.

FAQs

What is Emergency Boarding Up?

Emergency boarding up is a service that provides immediate security for your property following an unforeseen event, such as a break-in, fire, storm damage, or any situation where your property is left vulnerable. It involves securing doors, windows, or other access points using sturdy materials like plywood to prevent further damage or intrusion until permanent repairs can be made.

When Should I Consider Emergency Boarding Up?

You should consider emergency boarding up if:

  • You've experienced a break-in or attempted break-in
  • Your property has suffered damage from a storm, fire, or accident
  • You have a vacant property that needs protection from vandalism or squatting
  • You require a temporary security solution during building work or renovations

How Much Does a Boarding Up Service Cost?

The cost of a boarding up service can vary depending on several factors, including:

  • The size of the property and the number of access points requiring boarding
  • The type of materials used (plywood, OSB, steel security doors)
  • The complexity of the job (e.g., height, access restrictions)
  • The time of day or night the service is required (emergency call-out fees may apply)

It's always advisable to obtain a quote from a reputable boarding up company to get an accurate estimate for your specific requirements. Look for companies that offer 24-hour emergency boarding, ensuring help is available whenever needed.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Professional Boarding Up Company?

Opting for a professional boarding up company comes with several benefits:

  • Expertise: They have the experience and knowledge to assess the situation and provide the most effective boarding up solutions for your property.
  • Speed and Efficiency: Professional teams are equipped and trained to board up properties quickly and efficiently, minimising your property's vulnerable time.
  • Quality Materials: Reputable companies use high-quality materials and heavy-duty fasteners to ensure maximum security.
  • Insurance Compliance: They are often familiar with insurance company requirements, ensuring your boarding up work meets necessary standards for potential claims.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your property is in safe hands provides valuable peace of mind during stressful situations.

Conclusion

Navigating tough situations like severe weather events or unfortunate incidents like break-ins is never easy. Knowing how to react efficiently is key to minimising stress and potential losses.

Remember, proper boarding up goes a long way in safeguarding your property. Boarding up can bring you invaluable peace of mind during challenging times. Taking that proactive approach is a win in my book every time.

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