When it comes to construction or renovations, there’s no question about whether scaffolding will be needed or not. The only question is, which type of scaffolding will you need, and how will you decide? Read on and answer some useful questions to help you make sure you make the best decision.
What Is Scaffolding?
You’ve definitely seen it before; it’s the platforms around the outside of a building, used to support workers, their equipment, and the building materials they’re using. In the simplest of terms, it’s how they get up high to do the work they can’t reach from the ground.
So, now that you know what it is, do you really need it?
This is probably a question you should be asking the professionals who are working with you. For example, if you’re repainting a bungalow, or fixing up your patio, you’re not going to need scaffolding, since you’re not planning on leaving the ground. If you’re repainting a building with more than one story, fixing the façade of a multi-story building, or anything like that, you won’t be able to do it without a scaffold.
Where Do You Get The Scaffolding From?
Scaffolding services are something you can hire from a number of firms. Of course, since the scaffolding will be responsible for stopping people from falling off the side of the building, it’s important you use a reputable company. Also, the scaffolding company London should be local, so they can provide everything needed directly to your construction site. If you’re not sure about the firm you’ve chosen to hire your scaffolding from, ask to check their certifications; the right company will have had all the necessary health and safety checks on themselves and their equipment.
What Kind Of Scaffolding Do You Need?
Supported Platform Scaffolding is the type you’re probably most familiar with. It’s raised from the ground in layers, with wooden platforms held up by a metal frame. It works for most types of projects. Suspended Scaffolding is usually used for projects that are on uneven terrain where a metal frame can’t be sturdily erected, or where the work needed is really high up. This is a platform suspended in the air, made of wood, metal, and ropes. There’s also an adjustable scaffold, which is just suspended scaffolding that can be raised or lowered as needed, giving the workers flexibility.
What about your budget?
This one’s easy. Look around and get quotes. A local company reduces the cost of transporting equipment. Also consider what type of scaffolding you need, as some are more costly than others. The supported platform scaffolding is the cheapest, but only if it suits your needs. If you’re after flexibility, a costlier investment might be worth it.
Is it safe?
We’ve already touched on this, but make sure you use a reputable company. Nobody wants to cut corners and end up with someone falling for several stories. Make sure you use a company with the right licenses and permits and carry out a risk assessment on your site. They’ll also need insurance for their workers, although it’s always best if accidents don’t happen.
At the end of the day, if your project needs scaffolding, there’s no way around it. The best you can do is just make the best choice available to you. Take all the factors into consideration, budget appropriately, and don’t forget to let yourself get excited.
