Understanding Residential Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
As severe weather condition events and socio-political unrest become more frequent, lots of house owners are considering boarding up their properties to protect versus possible damage. Residential boarding up involves covering windows, doors, and other openings with boards to discourage vandalism, theft, or storm damage. This post explores the various aspects of residential boarding up, including its significance, methods, materials, and essential factors to consider.
Why is Residential Boarding Up Necessary?
Residential boarding up serves numerous functions, mostly focused on safety and protection. The following are essential factors homeowners decide for this precautionary measure:

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

Hindering Crime and Vandalism: In locations with high criminal offense rates or throughout civil unrest, boarding up makes a home less attractive to possible vandals or thieves.

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

Keeping Property Value: A damaged home can significantly decrease property value. Boarding up helps maintain the structural stability of a property, minimizing potential repair expenses in the long run.
Approaches of Residential Boarding Up
Property owners can pick from different methods to board up their homes. The choice largely depends upon budget plan, skill level, and the type of protection needed.
Approaches Include:
Plywood Boarding: The most typical technique includes utilizing sheets of plywood, typically 5/8-inch thick, that can be cut to fit windows and doors.

Cyclone Shutters: These are irreversible fixtures that can be set up over windows and doors. They supply more robust protection than plywood and can be released rapidly.

Lexan or Polycarbonate Panels: Clear, durable panels that permit light to go into but avoid items from breaking through. These are frequently a more visually pleasing alternative to plywood.

Metal Screens: These screens can provide a long-lasting option for safeguarding windows, particularly in areas susceptible to break-in.

Expandable Barriers: Some homeowners go with expandable barriers that can be adapted to fit various openings. These can be more expensive however offer higher convenience.
MethodCost RangeInstallation DifficultyLevel of ProtectionPlywood BoardingLow (₤ 50-₤ 100)ModerateHighTyphoon ShuttersModerate (₤ 200-₤ 600)Easy to ModerateReally HighLexan PanelsModerate to High (₤ 300-₤ 800)ModerateHighMetal ScreensModerate (₤ 150-₤ 400)EasyModerateExpandable BarriersHigh (₤ 600+)Moderate to DifficultHighProducts Used for Boarding Up
When thinking about residential boarding up, the type of products used can considerably influence effectiveness and resilience. Here are some frequently utilized materials:
Common Materials:
Plywood: Widely available and economical