5 Residential Boarding Up Lessons From The Pros
Author : Olson Saunders | Published On : 22 Oct 2025
Understanding Residential Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
As extreme weather condition events and socio-political discontent end up being more frequent, many homeowners are thinking about boarding up their residential or commercial properties to protect versus potential damage. Residential boarding up includes covering windows, doors, and other openings with boards to discourage vandalism, theft, or storm damage. This post checks out the various elements of residential boarding up, including its significance, approaches, products, and important considerations.
Why is Residential Boarding Up Necessary?
Residential boarding up serves several functions, primarily focused on safety and protection. The following are essential reasons property owners go with this precautionary measure:
Protection from Extreme Weather: Hurricanes, storms, and heavy snowfall can trigger substantial damage to vulnerable homes. Boarding up assists avoid broken windows and water intrusion.
Discouraging Crime and Vandalism: In locations with high crime rates or throughout civil discontent, boarding up makes a home less appealing to prospective vandals or thieves.
Insurance Requirements: Some insurance business may need a home to be boarded up in particular conditions to avoid claim denials.
Preserving Property Value: A damaged home can significantly reduce property worth. Boarding up helps maintain the structural stability of a property, reducing possible repair expenses in the long run.
Methods of Residential Boarding Up
Homeowners can select from various techniques to board up their homes. The choice mostly depends on budget, ability level, and the kind of protection required.
Methods Include:
Plywood Boarding: The most common technique involves utilizing sheets of plywood, usually 5/8-inch thick, that can be cut to fit windows and doors.
Cyclone Shutters: These are permanent components that can be installed over windows and doors. They supply more robust protection than plywood and can be deployed rapidly.
Lexan or Polycarbonate Panels: Clear, resilient panels that enable light to get in however prevent things from breaking through. These are frequently a more visually pleasing alternative to plywood.
Metal Screens: These screens can supply a long-term solution for protecting windows, particularly in locations vulnerable to theft.
Expandable Barriers: Some property owners go with expandable barriers that can be gotten used to fit numerous openings. These can be more pricey but provide greater benefit.
| Technique | Expense Range | Setup Difficulty | Level of Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plywood Boarding | Low (₤ 50-₤ 100) | Moderate | High |
| Typhoon Shutters | Moderate (₤ 200-₤ 600) | Easy to Moderate | Extremely High |
| Lexan Panels | Moderate to High (₤ 300-₤ 800) | Moderate | High |
| Metal Screens | Moderate (₤ 150-₤ 400) | Easy | Moderate |
| Expandable Barriers | High (₤ 600+) | Moderate to Difficult | High |
Products Used for Boarding Up
When thinking about residential boarding up, the type of products used can significantly affect effectiveness and resilience. Here are some commonly used products:
Common Materials:
Plywood: Widely offered and cost-efficient; generally treated for weather condition resistance.
Lexan/Polycarbonate: Offers protection with presence; can withstand considerable effect.
Metal Panels: Robust and durable; frequently utilized in commercial structures but can be adapted for residential use.
Screws/Bolts: Essential for protecting the boards to the property frame. It's vital to use resistant materials to avoid rust.
Typhoon Clips: For protecting plywood boards to windows and doors better, specifically in typhoon zones.
Pros and Cons Table
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood | Affordable, widely available | Can degrade quickly if not dealt with |
| Lexan | Resilient, permits light | More pricey than plywood |
| Metal Panels | Extremely robust, long-lasting | Heavy, may need professional setup |
| Screws/Bolts | Secure attachment method | Some deterioration risk if not correctly treated |
Key Considerations for Residential Boarding Up
Before proceeding with residential boarding up, numerous aspects ought to be taken into consideration. The following things can assist homeowners:
Local Regulations: Verify local building regulations and any policies that apply to boarding up homes. Some locations may have limitations connected to external modifications.
Window Types: Different windows (sash, moving, and so on) might need specific boarding methods. Take accurate measurements.
Setup Timing: It is ideal to board up before any projected storm or civil discontent to ensure that your property is effectively safeguarded from the beginning.
Getting Insurance: Consult with your insurance coverage supplier to understand any requirements for boarding up and ensure that the property is covered.
Do it yourself vs. Professional Help: Assess your abilities or consider working with professionals for installation, as improper boarding may result in insufficient protection.
Often Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How far beforehand must I board up my home?A1: Ideally, boarding up ought to be done a minimum of 24 to 48 hours before a forecasted storm or civil discontent to enable adequate preparation time. Q2: What is the very best material
to use for boarding up windows?A2: Plywood is the most extensively used material due to its availability and cost-effectiveness; nevertheless, lexan or metal panels offer higher durability and strength. Q3: Can I utilize duct tape or adhesive to secure boards?A3: No, duct tape and adhesive may not supply appropriate security and are not suggested. Always utilize screws or bolts for proper securing of boards. Q4: Does boarding up my windows increase my home insurance coverage costs?A4: Boarding up can cause discount rates on your home insurance as it decreases the threat of damage during extreme occasions. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk to consult with your insurance provider. Q5: Is boarding up homes an irreversible solution?A5: No, boarding up is a temporary step intended for particular scenarios(storms, prospective discontent). It needs to be gotten rid of when the threat has actually passed . Residential boarding up is a proactive procedure that every property owner should think about in today's unpredictable climate and social landscape. By comprehending the approaches offered, the materials utilized, and the best practices for installation, house owners can substantially minimize the opportunity of damage to their property. Additionally, by being informed about local guidelines and insurance requirements, they can make a well-rounded decision that secures both their household and investment.
