5 Residential Boarding Up Projects For Any Budget
Author : Kanstrup Dean | Published On : 26 Oct 2025
Understanding Residential Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
As severe weather condition events and socio-political discontent become more regular, many property owners are thinking about boarding up their residential or commercial properties to safeguard against possible damage. Residential boarding up involves covering windows, doors, and other openings with boards to hinder vandalism, theft, or storm damage. Emergency Board Up Solutions out the numerous elements of residential boarding up, including its significance, methods, materials, and crucial considerations.
Why is Residential Boarding Up Necessary?
Residential boarding up serves several purposes, mostly focused on safety and protection. The following are key factors property owners go with this precautionary step:
Protection from Extreme Weather: Hurricanes, storms, and heavy snowfall can trigger considerable damage to unguarded homes. Boarding up helps avoid broken windows and water invasion.
Deterring Crime and Vandalism: In areas with high crime rates or during civil discontent, boarding up makes a home less attractive to potential vandals or burglars.
Insurance Requirements: Some insurance provider might need a home to be boarded up in specific conditions to avoid claim rejections.
Preserving Property Value: A broken home can substantially reduce property worth. Boarding up helps maintain the structural stability of a property, decreasing potential repair costs in the long run.
Methods of Residential Boarding Up
Property owners can pick from different techniques to board up their homes. The option mostly depends on budget, skill level, and the kind of protection needed.
Methods Include:
Plywood Boarding: The most typical approach involves using sheets of plywood, normally 5/8-inch thick, that can be cut to fit doors and windows.
Hurricane Shutters: These are long-term components that can be installed over windows and doors. They offer more robust protection than plywood and can be deployed quickly.
Lexan or Polycarbonate Panels: Clear, durable panels that permit light to go into however avoid items from breaking through. These are frequently a more visually pleasing alternative to plywood.
Metal Screens: These screens can offer a long-lasting option for safeguarding windows, particularly in areas prone to theft.
Expandable Barriers: Some homeowners choose expandable barriers that can be changed to fit various openings. These can be more pricey but use higher convenience.
| Method | Cost Range | Installation Difficulty | Level of Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plywood Boarding | Low (₤ 50-₤ 100) | Moderate | High |
| Cyclone 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 considering residential boarding up, the type of materials used can significantly affect effectiveness and toughness. Here are some commonly utilized materials:
Common Materials:
Plywood: Widely readily available and cost-effective; normally dealt with for weather resistance.
Lexan/Polycarbonate: Offers protection with presence; can endure substantial effect.
Metal Panels: Robust and resilient; typically utilized in commercial structures but can be adjusted for residential usage.
Screws/Bolts: Essential for protecting the boards to the property frame. It's crucial to use resistant products to avoid rust.
Typhoon Clips: For protecting plywood boards to doors and windows better, especially in hurricane zones.
Benefits And Drawbacks Table
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood | Economical, widely accessible | Can weaken rapidly if not treated |
| Lexan | Durable, enables light | More pricey than plywood |
| Metal Panels | Extremely robust, lasting | Heavy, may require professional setup |
| Screws/Bolts | Secure fastening technique | Some corrosion risk if not correctly dealt with |
Secret Considerations for Residential Boarding Up
Before continuing with residential boarding up, a number of factors need to be considered. The following things can assist property owners:
Local Regulations: Verify local building codes and any policies that apply to boarding up homes. Some locations may have limitations associated with external modifications.
Window Types: Different windows (casement, moving, etc) might require specific boarding strategies. Take accurate measurements.
Setup Timing: It is ideal to board up before any projected storm or civil unrest to guarantee that your property is properly secured from the onset.
Getting Insurance: Consult with your insurance company to understand any requirements for boarding up and ensure that the property is covered.
DIY vs. Professional Help: Assess your skills or consider employing specialists for setup, as inappropriate boarding might lead to insufficient protection.
Often Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How far in advance must I board up my home?A1: Ideally, boarding up must be done at least 24 to 48 hours before a predicted storm or civil unrest to enable adequate preparation time. Q2: What is the very best product
to utilize for boarding up windows?A2: Plywood is the most commonly utilized material due to its accessibility and cost-effectiveness; however, lexan or metal panels offer greater toughness and strength. Q3: Can I use duct tape or adhesive to secure boards?A3: No, duct tape and adhesive might not offer adequate security and are not advised. Always use screws or bolts for proper securing of boards. Q4: Does boarding up my windows increase my home insurance coverage costs?A4: Boarding up can lead to discount rates on your home insurance coverage as it decreases the threat of damage during severe events. It's a good idea to seek advice from your insurance supplier. Q5: Is boarding up homes a permanent solution?A5: No, boarding up is a temporary measure intended for particular scenarios(storms, prospective discontent). It ought to be eliminated once the threat has actually passed . Residential boarding up is a proactive procedure that every property owner ought to consider in today's unpredictable climate and social landscape. By understanding the techniques readily available, the products utilized, and the best practices for installation, homeowners can significantly decrease the possibility of damage to their property. Furthermore, by being notified about local regulations and insurance requirements, they can make a well-rounded decision that secures both their household and investment.
