Why Boarding Up Doors and Windows Is Necessary
Boarding up doors and windows is an essential step in securing the structure prior to a storm affecting it. This can help protect the property from theft, vandalism, and damage.
A vacant structure is a magnet for vandals, thieves and squatters. A professional board-up will contain carriage bolts which can only be removed on the inside and will be weighed for the door frames.
Protection from vandals
vacant properties are an attractive target for thieves, vandals and squatters. The protection provided by boarding up a home that has been damaged, destroyed or smashed down can be a huge benefit. This is especially important for homes and businesses which are in the process of construction or renovations. The building could be empty for a time, so boarding up windows and doors will prevent criminals from entering until the work is finished.
In addition to providing protection from vandals, a boarding-up service can help to safeguard your home from weather damage. Criminals are attracted to damaged or broken doors or window because they can see inside. A boarding up service will ensure that all the windows and doors are closed and that any entry points are secured to prevent water, debris and cold air from entering the structure.
Plywood is commonly used to cover windows, but it does not provide the same level of protection as steel security screens. Plywood is typically attached with screws, which can be easily removed by criminals using the proper tools. By contrast, the specialist anti-tamper fixings used to secure screens made of steel are extremely difficult to remove without the right tool.
In addition, securing the entry points of your vacant investment property using steel screens is more affordable than boarding with plywood. The cost upfront is insignificant compared to the potential damage or loss that might be caused by vandalism or break-ins on an empty property.
A boarding-up company that is professional can also install doors equipped with locking mechanisms. These locks will keep squatters and criminals out, and also give homeowners peace of mind while they are going on vacation. It's also a good idea to have a friend or neighbor keep an eye on the property frequently to make sure that it's being looked after. These simple steps can deter burglars and other criminals from targeting your home or business. It is essential to take proactive steps to protect your investment property.
Animals are protected from
The boards offer protection against animals that might try to gain access to the property due to a number of reasons, including shelter for the night or just curiosity. If an animal enters the home, it could cause a variety of problems, ranging from damage to the structure to health hazards. The act of boarding up doors and windows can help keep out dangerous animals and keep children and pets secure. Openings on the second and higher floor should not be fenced off when they can only be accessed by ladder, or if they are accessible only from adjacent properties, stairwells or fire escapes.
Protection against the elements
The boards protect the windows and doors from damage caused by wind and debris during the storm. It also helps to prevent vandalism and burglaries. Business or home owners will determine the ideal time to board up their windows and doors based on the severity of the weather. The sooner the boarding is done the better the protection for the property.
Boards can be secured with nails or screws. It is recommended to use nails long enough to penetrate the plywood and reach the door frame. Alternately, you can opt for steel security doors that are fixed in place with friction and anti-tamper screws. This combination makes the panels impossible to take off using a crowbar, and provides the same security as traditional wooden boards.
Before taking the time to board up, it is important to analyze the situation and 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 the vulnerability as well as identifying any potential problems and determining if reinforcements are needed. To make the boarding process more efficient and safer, it is important to remove any obstructions and furniture from the area.
The team will prepare the door and frame for installation of the boards by cleaning the surface and taking out any hardware. They will also make any necessary repairs. The area should be sanded in order to achieve a smooth fit and allow the boards to withstand wind and other forces. It is also an excellent idea to mark the plywood boards with the name of the window or door they are designed for, to avoid confusion and permit easy identification.
Once the boards are identified, they are 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 the screws to avoid splitting and to make it easier to insert. The boards can be caulked to prevent leaks and increase weather resistance.
Pest protection
A vacant building is basically an open invitation to rodents, squirrels, raccoons and rats that are seeking shelter or food. These animals can do considerable damage to your home and pose health hazards and spread disease. By boarding windows and doors you can prevent creatures from entering your home and creating damage.
It's not enough to just board up the entry points. Repair My Windows And Doors must also fill in any gaps within your structure. For example the pests of mice and spiders are able to crawl through cracks even as small as the size of a quarter. Installing weather strips and door sweeps on all doors to the outside will reduce gaps.
It is also important to take away organic debris from your home or business. For instance, keep the mulch and pine straw away from the foundation of your building cut tree branches between 12 and 14 inches from the siding and roof, and remove any weeds growing in or close to your building's foundation. This will keep pests out of getting into your property and creating damage.
Air curtains are another way to prevent pests from entering an unfinished structure. This is basically an industrial-sized fan affixed to the ceiling, and it blasts the air over doors, windows and entryways. This device can be used to keep flying insects out of the house. It is also helpful for drive-thru window at restaurants and back shipping doors.
Keep in mind that it's not necessary board up openings above the first floor unless they are accessible with the aid of a ladder. They could be used as an escape route or an staircase. It is also recommended to not board up windows and doors in a property that is occupied by squatters, because this could create the impression of abandonment and attract criminal activities. If you're unsure of what to do about an empty building, consult with a professional boarding company to board up any openings and give the impression that the property is still in use.