What You Need to Know About a Scaffolding Hire

26 January 2016
 Categories: , Blog


Scaffolding can actually be rented or hired by a homeowner, for handling jobs at elevated heights where a ladder may not be safe. If you're a homeowner whose home has a cathedral ceiling and you need to do some painting or repairs, you might consider getting a scaffolding for the job rather than trying to rest a ladder on a wall. You might also consider scaffolding hire when painting the outside of your home, for the same reason. Note a few things you'll need to know about scaffolding hire so you can ask the right questions of a rental agency and understand what's involved with working with scaffolding. 

1. Steel versus aluminum

Steel scaffolding is very rugged and better for outdoor use, and is usually erected by contractors working on a construction project. For homeowners, you may not need the strength of steel for an indoor project and may even prefer lightweight aluminum as it's typically easier to erect and then move around. However, if you're going to be handling a job outdoors and especially in very windy conditions, note that steel may actually be a better choice as it can offer more stability against high winds. It may also be less likely to shift on soft soil. Note the use of your scaffolding when hiring a piece so the rental agency can advise you on your best choice.

2. Safety features

Scaffolding usually keeps you safer than a ladder as you don't need to balance on a rung but can simply stand on a platform. However, you might opt for a scaffolding with a gate; this refers to a bar that is on the side of the scaffolding, like a railing. It can prevent you from falling off the scaffolding if you should lose your balance. For your own use, you might even prefer a scaffolding without casters or wheels, as this can make them less likely to move around and become unstable even when the wheels are locked.

3. Stair access

If you'll be hiring a scaffolding that is very tall, you may want to consider a piece with stair access. This refers to a set of stairs that are built into the middle of the scaffolding. They may crisscross, going from one side to the other. Stairs can be safer than a ladder because you don't need to balance on the stairs, one rung at a time, as you do with a ladder. They can make it easier on you when you need to climb to higher heights and especially when you're carrying heavy buckets of materials or tools with you.


Share