Understanding Residential Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
As extreme weather occasions and socio-political unrest become more regular, numerous homeowners are considering boarding up their properties to secure versus potential damage. Residential boarding up involves covering windows, doors, and other openings with boards to discourage vandalism, theft, or storm damage. This short article explores the various elements of residential boarding up, including its significance, methods, materials, and essential factors to consider.
Why is Residential Boarding Up Necessary?
Residential boarding up serves several functions, mostly focused on safety and protection. The following are essential factors property owners opt for this precautionary measure:

Protection from Extreme Weather: Hurricanes, storms, and heavy snowfall can trigger significant damage to unprotected homes. Boarding up assists avoid broken windows and water intrusion.

Preventing Crime and Vandalism: In locations with high crime rates or throughout civil discontent, boarding up makes a home less appealing to possible vandals or burglars.

Insurance coverage Requirements: Some insurance coverage business might require a home to be boarded up in particular conditions to avoid claim rejections.

Maintaining Property Value: A broken home can substantially decrease property worth. Boarding up helps maintain the structural integrity of a property, lowering prospective repair costs in the long run.
Methods of Residential Boarding Up
Homeowners can select from numerous techniques to board up their homes. The choice mostly depends upon budget, ability level, and the type of protection required.
Techniques Include:
Plywood Boarding: The most typical method involves utilizing sheets of plywood, normally 5/8-inch thick, that can be cut to fit doors and windows.

Cyclone Shutters: These are long-term fixtures that can be installed over windows and doors. They supply more robust protection than plywood and can be released quickly.

Lexan or Polycarbonate Panels: Clear, durable panels that permit light to get in however avoid items from breaking through. These are frequently a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to plywood.

Metal Screens: These screens can offer a long-lasting option for protecting windows, especially in locations susceptible to burglary.

Expandable Barriers: Some property owners go with expandable barriers that can be changed to fit numerous openings. These can be more pricey but offer greater benefit.
ApproachExpense RangeSetup DifficultyLevel of ProtectionPlywood BoardingLow (₤ 50-₤ 100)ModerateHighCyclone ShuttersModerate (₤ 200-₤ 600)Easy to ModerateVery HighLexan PanelsModerate to High (₤ 300-₤ 800)ModerateHighMetal ScreensModerate (₤ 150-₤ 400)EasyModerateExpandable BarriersHigh (₤ 600+)Moderate to DifficultHighMaterials Used for Boarding Up
When thinking about residential boarding up, the type of materials used can considerably influence effectiveness and durability. Here are some commonly used products:
Common Materials:
Plywood: Widely offered and cost-efficient