Window Boarding in Dartford (Emergency & Planned Window Boarding, DA1–DA18)
When you’re dealing with a smashed window, cracked pane, or a property that can’t be left exposed, you need a practical fix fast. We provide window boarding in Dartford and across the DA postcode area—focused on emergency boarding up, reliable make-safe work, and clear documentation for insurers and landlords.
If you need to board up a broken window tonight, after a break-in, or because weather has left glazing unsafe, call us and we’ll talk you through the quickest safe option.
Need urgent help? Call 01322 952 450 (or email info@boarding-up-dartford.co.uk).
When window boarding is the right choice
Window boarding is typically used when glazing is damaged or insecure and the opening needs to be closed off quickly to protect:
- Safety (loose shards, unstable frames, risk of further collapse)
- Security (easy access after a break-in or vandalism)
- Weather protection (rain and wind driving into the property)
- Liability (shops and landlords need hazards controlled promptly)
Common call-outs we handle across Dartford and the wider DA area:
- Smashed window after vandalism
- Burglary damage (forced entry, broken panes, damaged beading)
- Accidental impact (DIY mishaps, ball strikes, vehicle contact near a frontage)
- Storm damage (rattled glazing, broken units, blown-in debris)
- Empty or recently vacated properties needing temporary boarding while repairs are arranged
If your issue isn’t just the window itself—e.g., a door has been forced or the frontage is damaged—see door boarding in Dartford or shopfront boarding for the right approach.
Emergency window boarding (out of hours included)
When you call us for emergency window boarding Dartford, the goal is simple: make safe and secure the property so you can breathe again and decide next steps in daylight.
We don’t promise unrealistic arrival times, because conditions and workload vary—especially out of hours. What we can promise is that we prioritise urgent situations and will give you a realistic ETA on the phone.
For urgent attendance: Call 01322 952 450
What happens when you call (3-step process)
-
We assess urgency and risks on the phone
We’ll ask what’s happened (break-in, smashed window, storm damage), the type of property, and whether the opening is at ground level or higher up. -
We attend and make safe
On arrival we check for hazards (loose glass, unstable frames) and confirm the best fixing method. If the frame is too damaged for non-destructive boarding, we’ll explain options before proceeding. -
You receive clear documentation
We can provide what insurers and managing agents typically request:- Time-stamped photos (before/after where possible)
- An itemised invoice
- A brief work statement describing how the property was secured
For broader urgent help, see emergency boarding up for how we handle call-outs across DA1–DA18.
Materials we use (and why)
We choose materials based on the opening size, the risk level, and how long the boarding needs to stay in place.
Exterior-grade plywood (typical for security and durability)
For most emergency window boarding, we use 18mm exterior-grade plywood because it’s strong, less flexible, and more resistant to weather. It’s a dependable choice when you need to secure property after a break-in or vandalism.
OSB (useful for smaller openings or short-term cover)
For smaller windows or very short-term situations, 12mm OSB can be suitable. We’ll advise if OSB is appropriate—particularly if the opening is sheltered and the main goal is temporary closure until glazing is replaced.
Fixings: security-minded, not “one size fits all”
We use fixings and methods that match the situation, including anti-tamper fixings where appropriate. Anti-tamper fixings are important because they help prevent boards being removed from outside—especially if the building will be unattended overnight or is a known target.
How we board up windows (methods you can trust)
There isn’t one universal “best” method—what matters is doing it safely, securely, and in a way that avoids unnecessary extra damage.
On-the-frame boarding (where suitable)
If the surrounding frame is sound, we can often fix the board securely to the frame or structure around the opening. This is common for domestic windows where the goal is quick security and weather resistance.
Recess-fit / reveal boarding (where appropriate)
On some openings, a recess-fit approach can offer a tidy, secure result—particularly where the window sits within a reveal. This can help reduce leverage points and keep the board more flush.
Non-destructive vs. damage-limiting approaches
Where possible, we use methods that minimise additional damage. However, if the frame is already compromised (rotted timber, fractured uPVC, loose brickwork), the priority becomes making the opening safe. We’ll explain what we can and can’t do before fixing the board.
Prioritising security: when a “quick board” isn’t enough
Some situations need a more robust approach than basic temporary boarding:
- Repeated targeting (previous break-ins or vandalism)
- Ground-floor windows facing public access
- Vacant or void properties between tenants
- Commercial sites with stock or sensitive equipment inside
In those cases, we may recommend additional measures (depending on suitability), such as security screens for longer-term protection. If you’re managing an empty building, see vacant property boarding for practical options.
Residential window boarding (houses, flats, and landlords)
We regularly board up windows for:
- Owner-occupiers dealing with a sudden smashed window
- Tenants needing the property secured quickly
- Landlords and letting agents coordinating repairs
- Housing associations and managing agents needing a reliable make-safe service
Flats can add complications—restricted access, shared entrances, higher-level windows—so we’ll ask a few questions to plan the safest approach.
For domestic-focused guidance, see residential boarding up.
Commercial window boarding (shops, offices, and mixed-use)
For commercial properties, the priority is often to secure the premises and reduce risk to staff, customers, and passers-by. We can help with:
- Shopfront boarded up situations after impact or vandalism
- Side/rear windows forced during burglary attempts
- Office glazing cracked or damaged and left unsafe
We understand that many commercial sites need clear paperwork for internal reporting and insurance. If the primary damage is to the frontage glazing, shopfront boarding is often the most relevant service page to review.
For business premises more broadly, see commercial boarding up.
After a break-in or vandalism: what you should do (practical steps)
If it’s safe and the police have finished on-site, a few simple actions can make the process smoother:
- Keep your police reference / crime number (if you have one)
- Take photos of the damage before anything is moved (only if safe)
- Avoid touching broken glass—it’s easy to make injuries worse
- Call your insurer early to confirm what they need for a claim
- Call us to make safe if the property can’t be secured
Related guidance:
We’re not loss adjusters or legal advisors, but we can provide the documentation insurers typically request.
Storm damage and sudden glazing failures
High winds and flying debris can turn a minor crack into a full failure. If your window has blown in, shattered, or is visibly unsafe, boarding can prevent:
- Further water ingress
- Pets or children accessing the opening
- Opportunistic entry while the property is vulnerable
For storm-related situations, see storm damage boarding up.
Window boarding across Dartford and the DA postcodes
We cover Dartford and surrounding areas across DA1–DA18. If you’re unsure whether you’re in range, call and we’ll confirm on the phone.
You can also browse local coverage here: areas we cover and our main local page for the town: boarding up in Dartford.
Why choose Boarding Up Dartford?
People usually call us at a stressful moment—late at night, after a break-in, or when a property can’t be left exposed. We focus on being straightforward, careful, and reliable.
- 10+ years trading
- Fully insured
- DBS-checked technicians
- Clear process and realistic expectations
- Documentation provided for insurance/admin where needed
If you want to understand what boarding up involves before booking, see what is boarding up?.
FAQs: Window boarding in Dartford
Can you board up a broken window tonight?
If you need to board up a broken window urgently, call us and we’ll advise the next step and provide a realistic ETA based on workload and travel. We do attend out of hours when needed.
Urgent help: Call 01322 952 450
What’s the difference between plywood and OSB for window boarding?
Plywood is typically stronger and more weather resistant, making it a common choice for emergency window security. OSB can be suitable for smaller or very short-term openings. We’ll recommend the best option once we understand the opening size and risk level.
Will boarding damage my window frame or brickwork?
We aim to minimise further damage and use appropriate fixing methods for the structure. If the frame is already unstable or unsafe, we’ll explain what’s possible before we proceed—safety and security come first.
Is window boarding covered by insurance?
Often it can be, depending on your policy and the cause of damage (burglary, vandalism, storm). We can provide time-stamped photos, an itemised invoice, and a work statement—documents insurers commonly request. More guidance: insurance claims.
How long can the boarding stay in place?
It depends on exposure, fixing method, and how quickly glazing repairs are arranged. Some boards are fitted for short-term make-safe; other situations (like void properties) need more robust, longer-term solutions. If the property will be empty, consider vacant property boarding.
Can you board from inside if access outside is difficult?
Sometimes, yes—access constraints are common (rear access issues, flats above shops, limited parking). Tell us what you’re dealing with and we’ll plan the safest method.
Do you provide paperwork for landlords, agents, or facilities managers?
Yes. We can supply a clear invoice and work statement, plus photos for your records. If you need something specific for a managing agent process, tell us when booking.
What if the window opening is unusually large?
Large openings may require thicker materials, additional bracing, or a different method to keep the board secure and safe. We’ll assess and explain the approach on-site.
I’ve had a burglary—should I wait for the police before boarding up?
If the police need to attend or gather evidence, follow their guidance first. Once they’re finished, we can help make safe and secure the opening. Related: burglary repairs and boarding up.
Ready to book window boarding in Dartford?
If you’re dealing with a smashed window, need temporary boarding, or want to secure property after burglary or storm damage, we’ll help you get the building safe and closed up properly.
Need help now? Call 01322 952 450 for immediate assistance.
Or email: info@boarding-up-dartford.co.uk
