Boarding up

Boarding up is the process of installing boards on the windows and doors of a property to protect it from storm damage or to prevent unauthorized access by squatters, looters or vandals.

Plywood sheets are usually used for this but an alternative is plastic sheeting. Specialists use 32-foot rolls of tough plastic for this and are able to wrap a complete house in 90 minutes. This has the advantage of waterproofing storm-damaged property but will not protect it from looters or squatters as the plastic may be cut.