Why Boarding Up Doors and Windows Is Necessary The boarding up of windows and doors is a necessary step in securing the structure prior to a storm affecting it. This will help protect the property from theft, vandalism and damages. A building that is unoccupied invites thieves, vandals and squatters. A professional board-up should include carriage bolts that can only be removed on the inside and will be weighed for the door frames. Protection against vandals Properties that are vacant can be an ideal target for thieves, vandals and squatters. The protection provided by boarding up a house which is damaged, destroyed or broken down can be invaluable. This is particularly important for businesses and homes that are undergoing 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 work is completed. In addition to providing protection from vandals, a boarding up service can help to protect your property from damage caused by weather. Criminals are attracted by a damaged or broken door or window because they can see inside. A boarding-up service will ensure that all windows and doors are locked and that any entry points are covered to prevent water, debris and cold air from getting into the structure. Plywood is often employed as a boarding-up solution, but it does not provide the same protection as steel security screens. Plywood is usually attached using screws that can be easily removed by criminals with the proper tools. The specialist anti-tampering fixings used to secure the steel screens are extremely difficult to remove without the correct tool. In addition, securing entry points to your investment property that is vacant with steel screen is more cost-effective than plywood boarding. The small upfront cost of the materials is a small amount when compared to the possibility of loss or damage caused by a break-in or act of vandalism in a vacant building. In addition an expert board up service can also install doors that are secured with locking mechanisms. These locks will protect your property from squatters and criminals, and offer peace of mind for homeowners on vacation. You can also ask a family member or a neighbor to inspect your property frequently to ensure that it's being maintained. These simple steps will deter burglars from targeting your home or business. It is important to take proactive measures to protect your investment property. Animal protection The boards provide protection from animals that might try to gain access to the property for any variety of reasons, such as shelter for the night or just curiosity. Animals that enter the home could cause problems, from structural damage to health hazards. Boarding up windows and doors can help keep out dangerous animals and keep pets and children safe. Openings on the second or higher floor should not be boarded up if they are only accessible via ladders, or if they are accessible only from nearby properties, stairwells or fire escapes. Protection against the elements The act of boarding up windows and doors helps to protect them from debris and wind damage during the storm. It also helps in preventing vandalism and burglaries. Depending on the severity of the weather, a home or business owner can decide if it is appropriate to put up doors and windows. The sooner the boarding is completed and the better protection the property will be given. 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 that are firmly fixed using friction and anti-tamper screws. This makes it impossible to take the panels off with crowbars and gives the same security level as traditional timber boards. It is important to assess the situation before taking the time to make sure that the appropriate materials are used and to determine the best method for handling the situation. This will save time and money while also providing the highest degree of protection possible. The assessment should include assessing the area's vulnerability, identifying potential problems and determining if reinforcement is necessary. It is also crucial to eliminate obstacles and take all furniture from the area to ensure it is safe and easy for the process of boarding to take place. When the area is ready to be boarding the team will then prepare the door and frame by cleaning the surface, removing all hardware and making necessary repairs. The area should be sanded to achieve a smooth fit and allow the boards to resist the forces of the force of wind and other forces. It is also a good idea to mark the plywood boards with the name of the door or window they are meant to be used for, to avoid confusion and permit easy identification. Once https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/nottingham-emergency-boarding-up-near-me/ have been marked, they will be cut to size and then placed over the gaps and vulnerable areas of the building. Screws should be inserted every few inches to keep the boards in place. Drilling pilot holes is a good idea to prevent splitting and make insertion easier. The boards can be firmly secured with caulking to stop leaks and enhance weather resistance. Pest protection A vacant building is an invitation for squirrels, raccoons and mice to seek shelter or food. They can cause significant damage to a building and pose health hazards as well as the spread of diseases. By boarding doors and windows to stop insects from entering the structure and cause damage. While it's important to secure entry points, you also must ensure that any gaps around the perimeter of your building are sealed. For instance mice and spiders can crawl through cracks even as small as one quarter. Installing door sweeps and weather strips on all doors to the outside will reduce gaps. You should also remove any organic debris that is a nuisance around your business or home. Keep mulch and pine straw at minimum 12 to 14 inches away from the foundation of your building. Remove tree branches from the siding or roof by about 12 to 14 in. Remove any weeds that have grown near the foundation of your building. This will stop pests from gaining entry into your property and causing damage. Another method to stop insects from entering a structure is to install an air curtain. This is a huge industrial ceiling fan that blows air across windows or doors and entryways. It can be used to keep flying insects out of the home. It is also helpful for drive-thru window at restaurants and back shipping doors. Be aware, however, that it isn't necessary to cover up any openings above the first floor unless they are accessible with the aid of a ladder and can be used as a fire escape or a staircase. It is also recommended to not board up doors and windows in a property that is occupied by squatters, because this could create a perception of dereliction and encourage criminal activities. If you're unsure of what to do with an empty property seek out a professional boarding service to board up any openings and give the impression that the property is still in use.