5 Basics You Need To Consider When Choosing Scaffolding Supplies
Having the right tools and equipment is vital when you are involved in a building project that involves multi-storeyed construction. After all, the safety of your workers has to be your top concern. Right? So before your project starts to roll on, the first thing you need is safe, reliable and sturdy scaffolding. Scaffolds are an integral part of a building project that offers your workers a safe and stable platform when working at heights. Therefore, scaffolding supplies are something that you should never compromise on.
But before you plunge into getting scaffolds, you must know what you should consider when choosing them for your project. Continue reading and find out!
Types of scaffolding
First thing first, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to scaffolding. So, to begin with, you need to know the types of scaffolding available in the market and the purposes they serve. There are three basic categories of scaffolding:
Supported platform systems
This is the most widely used scaffolding, which is required in almost every project. It comprises elevated platforms made of either metal or wood supported by poles and frames placed securely on the ground.
Suspended scaffolding
Though suspended scaffolding is not commonly used as the supported platform system, it is no less important. It comprises the same metal or wood platforms, but it is suspended in the air with ropes and a pulley anchored to the top of the building.
Adjustable scaffolding
Adjustable scaffolding is similar to the suspended ones but comes with a pulley attached to one end, allowing you to raise or lower the platform according to the need. Furthermore, it has a single platform made of metal or wood, just like the above two systems.
The right scaffolding services company
Well, it is no denying that finding the right scaffolding services company is as important as finding the right fittings and fixtures. While choosing a company, make sure it provides the equipment you need at a price that fits your budget. Besides that, it should have necessary credentials, proof of proper training and qualifications. Secondly, it should be up to date with all the permits, licenses and regulations concerning scaffolding.
Safety and reliability
When working on construction sites, safety should be at the forefront of your mind. Many features and materials like safety guardrails, stable platforms for scaffolding, and slip-resistant surfaces hold utmost importance to prevent accidents and injuries. So make sure the scaffolding delivered to you meets all safety requirements, and you have qualified and competent people alongside to erect scaffolding properly.
Your project requirements
Different types and stages of a construction project require different scaffolding to ensure that the task is carried out safely and on time. Therefore, when choosing the scaffold, you must consider the type of building project you are engaged in. For example, if you are working on a very tall building, suspended and adjustable scaffolding are the two safest options. However, even if the building is very tall but not perfectly square or rectangular in dimensions, then it is best to go for a supported platform scaffold.
Budget
This is quite obvious! When it comes to scaffolding supplies, you will find various equipment and tools with differing costs. In such a scenario, your budget is the central factor in deciding which scaffolding you choose. While supported scaffolding systems are the cheapest, and you can reuse most of their components, adjustable scaffolding is expensive but helps to work efficiently and faster.
If you find yourself in a dilemma and don’t know the right choice of scaffolding equipment for your project, seek expert recommendations and advice. This is one of the best ways to understand which type of scaffolding will suit your project’s needs at every stage in your construction project.