Vacant properties face constant threats from trespassers, vandalism, and weather-related damage. Property owners, managers, and receivers need to ensure these buildings remain secure to protect their value and prevent costly repairs. While traditional board-up methods like plywood may seem like a quick fix, they often fail to provide the level of security necessary to keep properties safe.
In this guide, we’ll discuss why and when you should board up a property, the limitations of plywood, and why DAWGS’ steel security barriers are the most effective solution for vacant property protection.
Why Should You Board Up a Vacant Property?
Boarding up a property means covering entry points—such as doors and windows—to prevent unauthorized access, theft, and exposure to the elements. Whether a building is temporarily unoccupied or long-term vacant, securing it properly is crucial to protecting your investment.
A well-secured property:
- Deters break-ins and vandalism.
- Prevents squatting and illegal activity.
- Reduces liability risks.
- Protects against storm damage and environmental wear.
- Helps maintain neighborhood safety and property values.
Visit our archives to learn more about board-up.
When Should You Board Up a Vacant Property?
If you own or manage a vacant property, here are the most common situations when boarding up is necessary:
| When | Why |
| After a Disaster or Storm Damage | Broken windows and compromised doors leave a property vulnerable to additional damage and trespassing. Securing the building immediately can prevent further deterioration |
| During Renovations or Construction | Vacant properties undergoing repairs often contain valuable materials, tools, and equipment. Boarding up prevents theft and keeps work sites secure |
| Before a Sale or Foreclosure | Vacant properties awaiting new ownership should be boarded up to prevent damage and unauthorized entry, preserving their marketability |
| To Comply with Local Regulations | Many cities enforce strict vacant property ordinances that require property owners to secure abandoned buildings to prevent crime and maintain community safety. |
Why Traditional Board-Up Methods Fall Short
Many property owners turn to plywood as a quick solution for securing vacant buildings. However, plywood has significant drawbacks that make it ineffective for long-term security:
- Easy to Break Into – Plywood can be pried open or cut, making vacant properties easy targets for trespassers and squatters.
- Signals Vacancy – A boarded-up building with plywood clearly indicates that no one is occupying or monitoring the property, attracting unwanted attention.
- Deteriorates Quickly – Plywood weakens over time, especially in extreme weather conditions, requiring frequent replacements.
- Doesn’t Always Meet City Codes – Some municipalities require more durable solutions than plywood to meet vacant property security requirements.
For these reasons, plywood board-ups are often an ineffective and short-term fix that can lead to higher costs down the line.
Want to learn more? Read our guide about alternatives to plywood.
A Smarter Alternative: DAWGS’ Steel Security Barriers
Instead of using plywood board-ups, DAWGS provides steel door and window guards—a superior solution for securing vacant properties. Here’s why property owners, managers, and receivers trust DAWGS:
- Unmatched Security – Our tamper-resistant steel barriers provide a strong physical deterrent, making unauthorized entry extremely difficult.
- Visually Appealing – Unlike plywood, DAWGS’ solutions maintain a property’s curb appeal, which helps attract buyers and tenants instead of deterring them.
- Weather-Resistant & Long-Lasting – Unlike wood, steel does not rot, warp, or deteriorate over time. Our security barriers can withstand extreme weather conditions, providing long-term protection.
- Code-Compliant – Many cities prefer steel security solutions over plywood board-ups. DAWGS meets local regulations to ensure your property is up to code.
We’ve prepared an article about the top reasons why steel board up is better than plywood for you to compare. Read it here.
Who Benefits from DAWGS’ Board-Up Services?
- Property Owners & Managers
Vacant rental properties and investment properties need secure, low-maintenance protection. DAWGS provides an easy, hassle-free way to keep properties safe.
- Receivers Managing Distressed Properties
Court-appointed receivers are responsible for protecting vacant and distressed properties. DAWGS’ board-up solutions prevent trespassing, illegal occupation, and further property damage. We have a new program designed explicitly for receiverships to offer a suite of exclusive benefits aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of property management and vacant property security for court-appointed receivers. Read more about it here.
- Emergency Board-Up Needs
If your property has suffered a break-in, fire, storm damage, or other emergencies, DAWGS provides rapid response installation to ensure immediate protection.
You may also be interested in the costs of emergency board-up services for your vacant property.
Why Choose DAWGS Over Local Board-Up Companies?
Many board-up companies near you may offer plywood solutions, but DAWGS provides a superior, long-term security option that saves you money and reduces liability risks.
- Stronger Security – Steel barriers are tamper-proof and built to last.
- Faster Installation – Our team secures properties quickly and efficiently.
- Better Investment – DAWGS protects your property long-term, reducing repair and replacement costs.
Protect Your Vacant Property with DAWGS Today
Traditional board-ups may seem like an easy solution, but they fail to provide the long-term security vacant properties need. DAWGS’ steel door and window guards offer unmatched protection, ensuring that your property remains safe from trespassers, vandalism, and environmental damage.
Contact DAWGS today to learn more about our board-up services and how we can help protect your investment. Secure your property the smart way—with DAWGS Vacant Property Security.
