Void Property Boarding Options - Brief Overview
- Justin Myles MSc FSyI CPP PSP CSMP
- Mar 7, 2023
- 6 min read
Updated: 22 minutes ago
When a property becomes vacant—whether due to renovation, sale, or disuse—securing it quickly is essential. Boarding up windows and doors helps prevent break-ins, vandalism, and squatting, while also protecting the public from potential hazards inside.
But with options ranging from SITEX steel screens to OSB boards and compression-fit systems, it’s not always easy to know which solution is right for your site.
In this guide, we break down the most common boarding systems used to protect empty properties in the UK, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs, budget, and risk level.
What Are Void Properties?
A void property is a building that’s temporarily unoccupied—often due to sale, renovation, change of tenancy, or abandonment. Whether residential, commercial, or industrial, these properties are far more vulnerable to break-ins, vandalism, squatting, and even accidental damage.
Because they often appear neglected or unsecured, void properties can quickly attract unwanted attention. That’s why it’s essential to act quickly and protect these buildings with durable, professional-grade solutions—such as steel window sheets, security screens, or temporary fencing—to keep them safe until they’re back in use.
Why Boarding Matters
Vacant properties often attract the wrong kind of attention—whether it’s from opportunistic intruders, vandals, or simply curious passers-by. An unsecured site can quickly become a target for break-ins, anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping, or even arson.
In some cases, empty buildings are also accessed by young people looking for somewhere to hang out, posing serious safety risks and potential liability for the owner. That’s why timely, visible boarding is one of the most effective ways to secure a property, both as a physical barrier and a deterrent.
Good boarding doesn’t just protect the building—it protects your investment, your reputation, and the surrounding community.
Boarding Up Options Explained
There are several ways to board up a vacant property, each with its own advantages depending on the level of risk, duration of vacancy, and budget.
Below, we explain the most common boarding systems used in the UK and when you might consider each one.
SITEX Steel Security Screens
SITEX is the brand name often used to refer to perforated steel security screens, and it’s widely trusted across the UK.
These heavy-duty metal sheets are bolted externally over windows or doors, making them highly visible and extremely difficult to remove without specialist tools.
Why choose SITEX:
Strong visual deterrent
Resistant to cutting, pulling, or tampering
Allows light and air through small perforations
Suitable for long-term voids or high-risk areas
Installed with anti-tamper fixings
Ideal for: Vacant homes in urban areas, commercial properties, buildings at risk of vandalism or squatting
Compression-Fit Steel Panels
Unlike SITEX, compression-fit systems don’t require drilling into the property. Instead, they’re secured by pressure between window or door frames using adjustable internal bars.
Why choose compression-fit:
Non-invasive—no drilling or permanent fixings
Leaves no marks or damage to the building
Fast to install and remove
Offers solid protection without altering the property
Ideal for: Short-term vacancies, listed buildings, properties where external alterations are not permitted
Perforated Steel Sheets (Non-branded)
Perforated steel sheets are similar to SITEX in function and appearance but may not carry the brand name. They still offer strong protection and visibility while being slightly more cost-effective depending on the supplier.
Why choose perforated steel sheets:
Effective for securing multiple windows
Can be used with both tamper-proof fixings and frame-based systems
A good alternative if SITEX isn’t required for insurance or spec
Ideal for: Residential and commercial sites with moderate risk levels
OSB Boarding (Timber Panels)
Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is a cost-effective timber-based solution, often used for temporary boarding or emergency situations. It’s commonly seen on construction sites or recently damaged properties.
Why choose OSB:
Lower upfront cost
Easy to source and install quickly
Acceptable for short-term use or low-risk properties
Can be painted for signage or discretion
Limitations:
Less durable than steel
Can be broken or removed more easily
Often doesn’t meet insurance requirements for security boarding
Ideal for: Low-risk vacant homes, temporary closures, or construction access control
What are the advantages & Disadvantages of SITEX sheets?
One of the main advantages of using steel window sheets is that they can be easily installed and removed, making them a cost-effective and flexible security solution. They are also low maintenance and do not require any upkeep once installed. They can be easily painted to match the colour scheme of the building, making them aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.
SITEX, can be an effective security solution for protecting vacant or abandoned properties. However, like any security measure, there are advantages and disadvantages to using SITEX.
Here are some of the key advantages and disadvantages to consider:
Advantages of SITEX window sheets:
Durable and long-lasting: SITEX is made from heavy-duty steel, making it a strong and durable security solution. It is designed to withstand significant force, making it difficult for intruders to break in.
Cost-effective: SITEX is a relatively low-cost security solution compared to other options such as reinforced doors or shutters. It is also easy to install and remove, making it a flexible and cost-effective option.
Aesthetically pleasing: SITEX can be painted to match the colour scheme of the building, making it a more visually appealing security solution than other options such as boarded-up windows.
Perforated for ventilation and light: SITEX is often perforated, allowing light and air to flow through, while still maintaining the security of the property.
Disadvantages:
Not completely fool proof: While SITEX is a strong and durable security solution, it is not completely fool proof. Determined intruders may still be able to break through, especially if they have the right tools or weapons.
May reduce property value: If SITEX is used on a property that is not vacant or abandoned, it may reduce the property value and be seen as an eyesore.
May attract unwanted attention: The presence of SITEX may attract unwanted attention to a property and increase the risk of vandalism or other forms of damage.
Potential safety hazards: SITEX can potentially be a safety hazard if not installed correctly or if it obstructs windows or doors that are required for emergency access or egress.
It's important to remember that Steel window sheets are often used in conjunction with other security measures such as CCTV cameras, intruder alarms, and security lighting to create a comprehensive security system.
By using a combination of different security measures, you can create a strong deterrent to intruders and reduce the risk of break-ins.
In addition to being effective in preventing intruders from entering void properties, steel window sheets also have other benefits. They can help to reduce energy costs by providing an additional layer of insulation, and they can also help to reduce noise pollution from outside.
It is important to note that steel window sheets are not fool proof and cannot guarantee complete protection against determined intruders.
However, they can significantly increase the level of security and provide a visible deterrent to potential intruders.
SITEX vs Compression-Fit Steel Screens: Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | SITEX Steel Screen | Compression-fit Screen |
Security | Strong and tamper-resistant; effective deterrent | Custom-fitted; often harder to remove than externally fixed screens |
Easy of Installation | Requires glazing removal; more time-consuming to install | Quick to install with no drilling; secured using internal jacks |
Aesthetics | Can be painted to match building façade | Can include vinyl decals to mimic windows; discreet appearance |
Ventilation & Light | Perforated design allows airflow and some light | Perforated panels also available |
Cost | Typically more expensive due to glazing removal and labour | Often more cost-effective and quicker to deploy |
Conclusion
In conclusion, steel window sheets are an effective solution for preventing intruders from entering void properties. They are strong, durable, and flexible, making them a cost-effective security option for vacant or abandoned buildings.
By using steel window sheets in conjunction with other security measures, you can create a comprehensive security system that will help to keep your property safe and secure.
SITEX and compression screens (installed using jacks) are both an effective security solution for protecting windows in vacant or abandoned properties. The choice between the two will depend on factors such as the level of security required, ease of installation, aesthetics, and cost.
It may be worthwhile to consult with a security professional to determine the best option for your specific property and security needs.
Still Not Sure?
If you're unsure which option suits your site best, we're here to help. Our team can recommend the right boarding solution based on your risk level, location, and timeline.
About the writer: Justin Quigley, is a recognised security expert in the protection of property through the introduction and deployment of technical and non-technical security measures, including CCTV towers, video verification systems, fencing, perimeter protection technology, hostile vehicle barriers, alarms and analytical camera systems.
He is a prolific writer on the subject of crime prevention, security technology and void property security.
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