Sometimes, we need a quick fix for our vacant property after a break-in, a vandalism attempt, or even a natural disaster, and emergency board-up services are available to respond quickly. Most of these services work with plywood, the most common method to board up doors and windows. But what’s the cost? This blog will explore the average expenses of emergency board-up services, helping you make informed decisions about your property security.
Is Plywood The Best Option For Emergency Board Up?
Vacant properties are vulnerable to break-ins, squatting, and weather damage. Emergency board-up services typically use plywood, a straightforward and the most common method of safeguarding these properties. However, rising plywood prices have significantly increased the cost of board-ups. According to a recent article on Nasdaq, lumber prices have been on the rise again. In mid-June 2023, lumber futures began trending higher, with prices climbing from $500.50 per 1,000 board feet on June 5 to over $560 by July 19. This reflects a broader trend of increasing lumber prices, influenced by economic factors and market volatility.
The U.S. Labor Department also reported that prices for lumber, including plywood, surged by 25.4% in January alone. Despite fluctuations over the past few years, current lumber prices are roughly three times higher than the average before the pandemic. This sustained increase in lumber costs makes emergency board-up services a much more expensive proposition than they used to be.
Average Costs of Emergency Board Up Services
The cost of emergency board-up services can vary depending on several factors, including the property size, the number of doors and windows, the type of materials used, and labor costs. Here’s a breakdown of what you can typically expect:
Plywood Costs:
- Material: Plywood is the most commonly used material for emergency board up services. The cost of plywood can vary based on thickness and quality. On average, a 4×8 foot sheet of plywood costs between $15 and $25.
- Total Material Cost: For a standard-sized home with 10 windows and 2 doors, you might need around 12-15 sheets of plywood. This would bring the material cost to approximately $180 to $375.
Labor Costs:
- Hourly Rate: Labor costs can significantly impact the total expense. Hiring a professional for emergency board-up services typically costs between $50 and $100 per hour.
- Time Estimate: Boarding up a standard-sized home may take 4 to 8 hours, depending on its complexity and accessibility. Therefore, labor costs can range from $200 to $800.
Additional Materials:
- Fasteners and Tools: In addition to plywood, you’ll need nails or screws and potentially brackets or braces to secure the boards. These materials typically add an extra $50 to $100 to the total cost.
Overall Cost:
- Total Estimate: Combining material and labor costs, the total cost for emergency board-up services for a standard-sized home can range from $430 to $1,275.
Challenges with Plywood Board Up
While plywood is a popular choice for emergency board-up services, it comes with its own set of challenges:
- Weather Damage: Plywood can deteriorate quickly when exposed to the elements. Rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can cause the wood to warp, rot, or become infested with pests, compromising the security of the property.
- Pest Infestation: Plywood is susceptible to damage from termites, carpenter ants, and other pests that can weaken the boards over time.
- Security Risks: Plywood can be relatively easy to break through, especially for determined intruders. This means you might have to replace the boards repeatedly, increasing your overall costs and efforts.
Factors Influencing the Cost
Several factors can influence the final cost of emergency board-up services:
- Property Size: Larger properties with more windows and doors will naturally require more materials and labor.
- Location: Labor rates can vary widely depending on the region and local demand for such services.
- Urgency: If you need the boarding done urgently, you might incur additional costs for expedited services.
DAWGS – A Cost-Effective and Better Alternative to Emergency Board-Up Services
For property owners seeking more cost-effective and durable solutions, professional security services like DAWGS offer a superior alternative to traditional plywood. DAWGS specializes in vacant property security, providing options that are more economical in the long run and significantly more reliable than DIY methods. Their solutions are designed to withstand weather, pests, and intrusions, thereby reducing the need for frequent replacements.
DAWGS’ steel door and window guards form the cornerstone of a comprehensive vacant property security plan. These guards are not just a supplement but a fundamental component of effective property protection. Their visible presence is a powerful deterrent, while their robust construction creates an almost impenetrable barrier against forced entry. This dual functionality is crucial for preserving the integrity of vacant properties.
Additionally, DAWGS’ guards are designed with aesthetics in mind, ensuring that the property maintains its visual appeal. This helps prevent the property from becoming an eyesore and contributes to the community’s perception of safety and order, thereby preserving property values.
Call DAWGS For Your Emergency Board-Up Services Needs
When considering emergency board-up services for your vacant property, weighing the costs and benefits of various methods is important. While traditional plywood board-ups might initially seem cost-effective, rising lumber prices and the potential for repeated replacements can make them more expensive. DAWGS’ steel door and window guards offer a more durable, secure, and visually appealing solution, providing better protection and long-term savings. Investing in professional emergency board-up services with DAWGS ensures your property remains safe and secure, giving you peace of mind.
Get a quote today and take the first step toward securing your vacant property with DAWGS.
