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Boarding Up a Door Or Window

A boarded-up door or window is a good way to stop theft, vandalism and squatters from entering the property. Boarding up your windows and doors can safeguard your home from pests and water damage.

It is a great idea to purchase plywood, cut and store it before you need it. Ideally, they should be labeled and stored in a dry location.

1. Deter crime

Being the owner or manager of a vacant property has its challenges and when it is about security one of the primary issues is how to safeguard the property from vandals, thieves, and squatters. Boarding up is a cost-effective and quick method to stop criminals from entering your premises. It creates physical barriers that deter criminals and lowers the likelihood of the possibility of a burglary.

Burglaries are a major issue for vacant buildings. Boarding up doors and windows is a great strategy to deter burglars. Burglars typically look for properties that are easy to get into and by creating a barrier with steel sheets or plywood, a potential burglar will be able to see that it's not an easy to break into and may relocate to a different home.

Boarding up helps minimise the damage to a building and reduces the risk of water or pests. Keep in mind that boarding up is not the only method to secure vacant buildings. However, it is an excellent place to begin, especially in areas that have high crime rates.

To secure an investment property, virtually any can be boarded. You can board up nearly every property, from homes, shops, and commercial structures, to churches or listed structures, and even stately home. It is essential to secure all entrances and exits of the building. This is not just doors and windows, but also skylights, basements, and delivery points like cellar access to pubs and bars.

In addition to the practical benefits of board up, it can also be used as a marketing tool for vacant properties by showing that the building is in use and is being taken care of. It can also help to keep away the negative image of empty buildings as a source for vandalism and crime.

There are next to secure a vacant home such as installing concrete barriers and licensed security guards. However, boarding up is the most cost-effective and fast solution. A specialist service provider can arrange this within a matter of hours after an emergency. They can also provide guidance on other vacant security solutions such as concrete barriers and wireless CCTV that provide an all-encompassing approach to security that can aid in reducing the risk of arson, anti-social behavior, fly-tipping, trespassing and squatting.

2. Prevent water damage

A board up is a crucial step to protect a home after damage has occurred. It protects against further damage caused by the elements, trespassers, and wild animals. It also protects the contents of the home from further damage. This is especially important if the building has been rendered inaccessible following flooding, fire or other catastrophe.

While the process of boarding up may be expensive, it is a far cheaper alternative to replacing windows, doors or roofs. It's also a cost efficient method to stop vandalism and keep the contents of the home protected until it can be repaired. Vandalism and graffiti are a major problem in empty homes. Placing plywood on walls can deter people who are looking to make quick cash and property owners could save money and time.

If the property will be vacant for a long period it's a good idea to install a board. This will stop rainwater from seeping into the structure and causing further damage, growth of mold or even structural damage. Additionally, a boarding can assist in preventing wildlife from moving into the home and eating or damaging the belongings.

A boarding may also be used to deter squatters from living in your property illegally. They will find it more difficult to enter the property and cause more damage since they won't be able open the door. It is a good idea to engage a professional for emergency services for board up if you need to secure your property.

While the main reason behind the boarding up process is to protect a building from any further damage, it's important to consider the effect it may have on the neighbourhood. If a house is bowed up for a long period of time, it could have a negative impact on the perception and value of homes in the area. This is because they could view the property as being abandoned or in decline, which can affect the value of their property.

3. Keep out pests from gaining entry

A property that is vacant is an invitation to vandals, thieves and homeless squatters who are looking for a spot to settle. Boarding up doors and windows will help to stop these unwanted visitors by making it harder to get into the building.

An open window can also provide a shady pathway for rodents, squirrels, raccoons, and other critters looking to find shelter and food. Once they have gained entry they can cause significant damage and make a mess. By boarding up windows and doors, you'll be able to prevent pests from entering and damaging furniture and fixtures inside.


Plywood sheets are a common method of boarding investment properties. Plywood is easily available in a majority of hardware stores, and is affordable and simple to work with. It is a great temporary solution to shield the property from intrusions and weather damage, but it can be easily damaged by water or wind. It is best to replace it with something that is more durable.

Another way to bolster a vacant property's security is to use steel sheeting, which is much more durable and water resistant than plywood. It's also simpler to install and requires less maintenance.

It's important to look for other ways to enter your home or business, in addition to boarded-up windows and doors. Make sure that the basement and attic are secure and that the chimneys and air vents are covered with netting or covers to keep insects out.

Consider hiring a professional boarding service if you have multiple openings on your property that require to be sealed. They have a range of options that are made to withstand weather and insects as well as intruders. These solutions are more cost-effective in the long run and provide more security than traditional plywood. A professional will know the best way to install and maintain this product, which will ensure durability and effectiveness.

4. Protect furniture from damage

If a home is empty, it's essential to take precautionary measures to avoid damage to the furniture inside. This can be prevented by making windows and doors boarded up. It shields the interior from elements and makes it harder for burglars to gain entry. This can help to minimize the amount of time and money lost because of damage to the furniture in the home.

The primary reason to put up a fence around your property is to protect it from the damage caused by debris that could be caused by natural disasters or storms. These kinds of events can be extremely destructive and often result in a lot of financial loss to owners and tenants. By boarding up the property ahead of time, you can reduce the damage. Boarding up windows and doors of a property can also protect against vandalism and unintentional intrusions.

Anyone with a basic knowledge of carpentry can easily put up boards on a property. Before you begin, it's important to have the right tools, including 2x4s, plywood and nails. The most suitable plywood for boarding is the exterior grade, and it must be at least 5/8-inch thick. It should be purchased in 4x8 foot sheets and is easily cut to size. It should also be 30% more durable than Oriental Strand Board (OSB).

Before starting to board up, it is important to know that some local councils have specific laws and restrictions regarding the process of boarding up a house. The regulations may differ between areas and therefore it is essential to consult your local council to ensure you follow the correct procedures. Infractions to these regulations could lead to fines or other legal consequences.

The boarding up process is not only an excellent way to protect your property from the elements, but it's essential for managing agents and landlords who must adhere to the requirements of their insurer. Most typical home insurance policies do not cover a home that is vacant for more than 30 days but the exact restrictions will differ by the provider. Boarding up is an essential safeguard that can help to ensure your home's security until it can be reoccupied or sold.

Member since: Tuesday, December 3, 2024

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