How Quickly Should Board-Up Happen After a Disaster?

Leaving a property open after a disaster invites serious secondary damage. An unsecured opening allows rain, wind, and debris to enter, worsening any existing water damage. It also makes your home a target for trespassers or theft. Securing the structure quickly protects both your belongings and the building's integrity, making the restoration process more straightforward.

Acting fast to board up can be a condition of your policy for coverage of subsequent damage. Document the original damage with photos before any temporary repairs. This helps create a clear record for your insurance adjuster when they review the claim.

Professional board-up involves more than nailing plywood over a hole. The pros will assess all points of entry, including broken windows, damaged doors, and compromised walls. They use heavy-duty materials like plywood or polyurethane panels cut to size and securely fastened to withstand further weather and deter unauthorized entry.

The installation is done to create a weather-tight seal. This prevents additional moisture from entering, which is crucial for preventing mold growth. A proper board-up also protects the remaining structure from sun exposure and wind. This temporary repair is a critical part of stabilizing the property for the full restoration work to follow. It helps the pros manage the drying process effectively once they begin.

• Securing broken windows and sliding glass doors.
• Reinforcing damaged exterior doors and garage doors.
• Covering holes in walls or the roof from fallen debris.
• Installing temporary fencing around hazardous areas or pools.
• Placing tarps over roof damage if safe to do so.
• Ensuring all fastenings are secure against high winds.

Board-up is a temporary emergency service that precedes the complete restoration. Once the property is secure, the water damage pros can begin their detailed inspection and water extraction. The board-up materials will stay in place until permanent repairs, like window replacement or wall reconstruction, can be scheduled.

This phased approach allows for proper drying and prevents further loss. The restoration process for water damage often involves several steps that must happen in sequence. Keeping the elements out ensures the drying equipment works efficiently and protects new materials as they are installed.