Why Steel Beats Plywood Boarding: A Cost-Benefit Analysis for Vacant Properties
The Crucial Question: Is Plywood Really Cheaper for Vacant Property Security?
When securing a vacant property, the debate between traditional plywood boarding and modern steel security guards often comes down to perceived cost. Plywood seems cheaper upfront, but savvy property managers, REO asset holders, and real estate investors know that the initial expense is only one piece of the puzzle.
Plywood may be the familiar approach, but it signals vacancy, invites vandalism, and rapidly increases your long-term liability. SiteArmor Solutions provides a superior, reusable, and ultimately more cost-effective alternative to protect your valuable assets.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the true cost-benefit analysis between the two options.
Security & Deterrence (The True Risk Factor)
The primary goal of vacant property security is deterrence. In this regard, plywood fails immediately.
Plywood: An Invitation, Not a Deterrent
Plywood is easily compromised. With basic tools (crowbars, drills, or even a determined kick), intruders can breach a plywood barrier in minutes.
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Signals Vulnerability: Boarded-up windows instantly announce that the property is unoccupied, making it a target for theft, squatters, and vandalism.
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Easy Entry: Plywood offers minimal structural resistance. A breached board provides quick, hidden access for criminals and squatters seeking shelter or materials (like copper piping).
SiteArmor Perforated Steel Guards: The Impermeable Barrier
Our SiteArmor Steel Window Shields and Steel Door Rentals provide a virtually impenetrable barrier that is fire-resistant and designed to withstand heavy force.
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Maximum Resistance: Steel is inherently more difficult to cut or break through, making forced entry attempts time-consuming and noisy...all key factors that deter criminals.
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Unique Perforated Design: Our specialized perforation is a crucial feature. Unlike solid steel, it allows light and ventilation into the structure, which is vital for preventing mold and mildew buildup. This addresses a major preservation risk that plywood completely ignores.
Property Preservation & Liability
The security solution you choose directly impacts the long-term condition and liability associated with the vacant property.
| Feature | Plywood Boarding (High Risk) | SiteArmor Steel Screens (Low Risk) |
| Airflow & Preservation | Zero airflow, traps moisture, accelerates mold growth, and causes interior decay. | Perforated Steel allows light and air circulation, significantly mitigating mold and humidity issues. |
| Damage to Structure | Requires drilling and screwing directly into window and door frames, causing irreversible damage upon removal. | Installed using proprietary compression or non-destructive methods, leaving frames intact for faster turnaround. |
| Fire Safety | Highly flammable material that can be easily set alight by arsonists, increasing liability. | Non-flammable steel provides a superior, fire-resistant barrier. |
| Liability | Poor security and property blight can lead to municipal code violations and fines, increasing insurance risk. | Adheres to local property ordinances, protecting you from potential fines and reducing overall asset risk. |
The True Cost-Benefit Analysis (Why Steel Saves You Money)
While the initial cost of steel security solutions may be higher than lumber, the lifecycle cost makes steel the better long-term investment.
Cost Factors That Kill the Plywood Myth:
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Repeat Boarding & Maintenance: Plywood warps, rots, and must be replaced after severe weather or a failed break-in attempt. This requires repeated labor and material costs. Steel is reusable and durable for years.
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Repair Costs: Plywood is screwed directly into the property frame, leading to costly window and door frame repairs before the property can be occupied or sold. Steel leaves the frames undamaged.
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Theft and Damage: The cost of one significant break-in (copper theft, vandalism, fire) far outweighs the cost of steel rental. Steel acts as a strong insurance policy against catastrophic loss.
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Time-to-Sale / Curb Appeal: Ugly, decaying plywood screams "blight," dragging down neighborhood aesthetics and property value. SiteArmor Steel Shields present a cleaner, more professional, and less alarming appearance, which can help accelerate the eventual sale or rehab.
Next Steps: Upgrade Your Vacant Property Security
Don't let perceived savings on lumber translate into six-figure losses from vandalism or squatters.
SiteArmor Solutions provides a full suite of vacant property security and preservation services, including our flagship steel security products, advanced 24/7 monitoring systems, and squatter clearance.
Ready to move beyond the boards? Contact SiteArmor Solutions today for a customized quote and start securing your investment with the highest standard in the industry.