After a severe storm or a forced entry, a 24 hour boardup protects your home, business, and peace of mind. This immediate barrier keeps weather out, crime down, and evidence preserved while you coordinate permanent repairs.
Licensed contractors use heavy gauge metal and secure fasteners to seal every opening within a single day. Understanding the process, costs, and safety standards helps you react quickly without overpaying or cutting corners.
Typical Service Timeline
| Time Since Incident | Key Action | Provider Responsibility | Owner Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–2 hours | Initial call and rapid dispatch | Confirm arrival window and crew details | Document damage with photos |
| 2–4 hours | On-site assessment and measurements | Review hazards, access points, and permits | Share keys, alarm codes, and utility status |
| 4–8 hours | Procurement of materials and mobilization | Confirm boardup materials, cost, and timeline | Approve scope and make deposit |
| 8–12 hours | Installation, security checks, and documentation | Verify anchor points, seals, and alert signs | Obtain completion report and receipts |
| 12–24 hours | Final inspection, handoff, and insurance coordination | Deliver paperwork and contact insurer | Schedule permanent repairs |
Emergency Structural Security
Immediate Protection Measures
Emergency boardup crews reinforce frames, seal gaps, and install anti-tamper locks. They prioritize load-bearing panels and roof edges to prevent sagging or collapse during high winds.
Material and Tool Standards
Expect 20-gauge steel sheets, pressure-treated wood framing, and corrosion-resistant screws. Portable lighting, battery tools, and fall protection gear ensure the crew can work safely after dark and in adverse weather.
Insurance and Documentation Procedures
Photographic Evidence and Inventory
Document open frames, water intrusion, and personal property before boarding. Insurers often require time-stamped images and a material manifest to validate coverage for vandalism or storm loss.
Adjuster Access Coordination
Schedule a walkthrough with your claim representative once the boardup is complete. Adjusters verify measurements, note boarding methods, and confirm that temporary work does not interfere with later permanent repairs.
Cost Factors and Price Transparency
Size, Material, and Access Challenges
Larger openings, multi-story work, and after-hours service increase labor and equipment costs. Material choices, such as marine-grade plywood versus steel, also shift the final invoice.
Permit and Disposal Fees
Some jurisdictions require permits for permanent or semi-permanent boardups. Disposal fees for damaged framing, insulation, and hardware may appear as separate line items on the estimate.
FAQ
How quickly can a crew board up an entire storefront after a break-in?
Standard commercial storefronts can be fully boarded within 8 to 12 hours after crew arrival, provided access is granted and permits are pre-cleared. Multi-door locations may require staged installation to maintain business on one side.
Will boarding up affect my insurance claim or delay repairs?
Proper boardup work supports your claim by showing loss mitigation and prevents further damage. When documented correctly, it rarely delays permanent repairs and often streamlines adjuster approval.
Can I stay in my home or does the boardup require full evacuation?
Residential boardups usually allow occupants to remain, as long as structural hazards like broken stairs or exposed wiring are secured. Your crew will mark unsafe zones and outline egress paths for safety.
What maintenance do I need to perform on a temporary boardup before permanent work?
Inspect fasteners weekly, clear debris from drainage paths, and monitor for new water intrusion. Notify the contractor immediately if panels shift, rust spreads, or the seal around doors and windows fails.
Next Steps for Secure Recovery
- Contact licensed boardup contractors immediately to lock down the site
- Document damage with photos and itemize visible loss for your insurer
- Review estimates for materials, labor, permits, and disposal fees
- Coordinate temporary access for adjusters, repairs, and cleaning
- Set a schedule for permanent repairs and verify code compliance
