Handy tips before hiring and buying scaffolds

To the common person, scaffolding is just another temporary and unsightly feature that envelopes structures under construction. To builders, scaffolding is an all-time necessity central to the ease and safety of work at all building sites. As a contractor or private builder intending to put up a new structure or renovate an existing one, you may choose to buy your own scaffolding (new or used), or otherwise hire. The associated cost may constitute a considerable fraction of your entire building budget, and this figure goes up hand in hand with the width and height of your project.

Assess your needs Ask your head engineer or foreman to do an informed assessment of your needs. The size and design of your project determines the quantity and type of your scaffolding material. Particular sections of your work, such as cantilevered balconies and spires, may require special designs of scaffolding components. With a ready and detailed bill of items, you will be able to acquire the right number of the correct components in one deal.

Compare prices Although scaffolding is as indispensable to your line of work, it shouldn't cost you an unreasonable amount. Take your time to compare selling and hiring prices offered by different firms in your area.  Also, ask for free delivery.  Hiring companies charge on a time basis, that is, weekly, monthly or even longer. Carefully estimate the duration of your project to coincide with the duration of hire. This avoids paying for redundant scaffold.

 Evaluate condition Hired scaffolding is rarely new.  Some or all components have years or even decades of service behind them different hands and usage conditions. Prolonged contact of staff bottoms and base jacks with wet soil will progressively corrode them and weaken the overall integrity of your scaffold. Rust will also attack unpainted metal. Go for painted metallic components, and insist on picking and inspecting each part yourself. It may seem tedious, but the long term implications are worth it. Check to see that the tubes are straight, crack-free and not corroded. The couplers should lock with a firm, easy to disengage grip. Scaffold boards should neither be warped or showing ominous grain separation. Edges should be secured by metal strips and their general condition shouldn't indicate advanced ageing. An important thing to remember is that wooden boards shouldn't come painted as this conceals defects.

Consider these insightful suggestions before making that commitment. You will not only save your money, but will also prevent accidents leading to expensive lawsuits and work delays.