What is Boarding Up? A Guide to Emergency Property Securing

“Boarding up” is the process of temporarily securing a building’s vulnerable openings—such as windows, doors, or other damaged areas—with sturdy boards, typically made of plywood or OSB. It is a critical first-response service used to protect properties after incidents like break-ins, vandalism, storm damage, or fires.

The primary goal of boarding up is to provide immediate, robust security. It acts as a physical barrier to prevent unauthorised entry, protect the property’s interior from weather damage, and make the site safe until permanent repairs can be carried out.

For professional boarding up services in North London, Call 020 4538 0079 anytime.

Why is Professional Boarding Up Necessary?

While it might seem like a simple task, professional boarding up is vital for several reasons:

  1. Effective Security: A professional service uses the right materials and, crucially, the correct fixing techniques. DIY attempts often use thin boards and inadequate screws, which can be easily removed by an intruder. We use thick boards and heavy-duty, anti-tamper fixings to create a truly secure barrier.
  2. Preventing Further Damage: Improperly installed boards can damage your window or door frames, leading to more expensive repairs later on. Our technicians are trained in non-destructive methods that protect your property.
  3. Weatherproofing: A key function of boarding up is to seal the opening against wind and rain. We cut boards to size for a snug fit, preventing water ingress that can cause damp, mould, and structural damage.
  4. Insurance Compliance: Most insurance policies require you to take “reasonable steps” to secure your property after damage. Using a professional, accredited service and obtaining a proper invoice is the best way to demonstrate you have met this requirement. Failure to do so could invalidate your insurance claim.
  5. Safety: Dealing with broken glass and damaged frames is hazardous. Our technicians are equipped with the right safety gear to handle these situations, removing dangerous shards and debris as part of the service.

The Boarding Up Process

When you call Boarding Up North London, our process is designed for efficiency and peace of mind:

  1. Dispatch: We take your details and dispatch a mobile technician to your location anywhere in North London.
  2. Assessment: The technician assesses the damage, measures the opening(s), and discusses the best securing method with you.
  3. Quotation: You receive a clear, no-obligation quote before any work begins.
  4. Preparation: The area is made safe. Any dangerous broken glass or debris is carefully removed.
  5. Cutting & Fitting: Boards are cut to the precise size of the opening to ensure a tight, secure fit.
  6. Securing: The boards are fixed into place using strong, appropriate fixings. We select fixings that provide maximum security while minimising damage to the surrounding frame or brickwork.
  7. Completion: Once the property is secure, we provide you with an invoice and any other paperwork needed for your insurance.

Materials Used in Boarding Up

The choice of material depends on the situation, required security level, and budget.

  • Plywood: The industry standard. It is strong, weather-resistant, and provides an excellent security barrier.
  • OSB (Oriented Strand Board): A cost-effective and strong alternative to plywood, suitable for many temporary applications.
  • Steel Security Screens: For high-risk or long-term vacant properties, perforated steel screens offer the highest level of protection against vandalism, fire, and intrusion.
  • Temporary Steel Doors: Used to secure main doorways on vacant properties, offering a far greater level of security than timber boarding.

Our vans are stocked with a range of materials, allowing us to provide the right solution on the first visit.

Have Questions About Securing Your Property? Our expert team can provide advice on the best way to secure your home or business.

Need help now? Call 020 4538 0079 or Email us.

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