Things to Know Prior to Purchasing Scaffolding

Posted by Armstrong Louis on October 11th, 2017

Scaffolding is a temporary structure to support the construction or maintenance work of a building. The workers climb on to the scaffolding in order to work on the interior or exterior of a building. It is, therefore, of utmost importance that the chosen scaffolding gives proper support, or else it can lead to fatal results. While ladders and ladder scaffolds can be the best support for you while working just above ground level, more complex structures are required for working at a greater height.

Along with safety, you also need to think about budget in this capital-intensive world. You should thoroughly review the guarantee and return policies of the manufacturer and the supplier. Before purchasing scaffolding, you must also check whether there is any compensation if things were to go wrong. (Information credit: Southend Scaffolding)

It is important to determine the type of scaffolding you require before buying one. This will ensure that your project is completed with minimal hassles and impediments.

• Supported scaffolding

This is the most commonly used variety of scaffolding in case of any elevation is required. Supported scaffolding may require extra support to carry excessively heavy loads. It is the same way with long scaffolding. Its most advantageous feature is that it is very flexible and can, thus, be easily constructed and deconstructed. Compared to other types of scaffolding, supported scaffolding is cheaper. Moreover, they are remarkably safe.

• Suspended scaffolding

This type of scaffolding, as the name suggests, is suspended from the roof of a tall construct. It is generally used when it is almost impossible to construct a base. Moreover, in case of any repair or renovation at a great height it is impractical to build scaffolding attached to the ground level. Suspended scaffolding is quite common with the window cleaners. They use it to clean the tower block windows. Like supported scaffolding, this too, is easy to build. Although only one or two people can work at the same time, it enables them to reach incredibly high levels.

• Rolling scaffolding

It is quite similar to supported scaffolding. The difference lies in the fact that rolling scaffoldings have caster wheels which allow the workers to shift the base of the scaffolding without deconstructing or adding to it. The wheels can be securely locked once the scaffolding has been moved to the requisite spot. It is extremely convenient, and work can be continued for longer in elevated areas.

• Aerial lifts

Also known as aerial platforms (due to its shape), it is commonly used by the workers to access different levels of the building. It is great for installing windows on a high-rise building. Aerial lifts are also used when working on telephone poles or lampposts. Even though only a limited number of people can work there at the same time, it is the easiest and fastest way of reaching a height.

It is best to select a scaffolding of a specific kind after consulting with your construction manager.