Those who work in the construction industry may be very aware of scaffolding, sheeting and netting, including their benefits and purposes. If you are beginning a construction project and are unsure on the right type of scaffolding or scaffold protection then this essential guide will make your choices more informed and easier.
Scaffolding – What is it and when do you need it?
Scaffolding is actually defined as a temporary structure in itself. Put up by professionals you will find that scaffolding can come in various different materials such as metal and even wood.
For example, in Asia they are very fond of using bamboo scaffolding on their buildings whereas in the UK metal pipes or tubes are used instead. Tubes, couplers and boards will make up the key components of scaffolding.
Bamboo scaffolding is used in Asia! In the Western World you will find scaffolding to be made from metal.Scaffolding is used to support people such as builders, as well as materials when undergoing a building or repair project. If your construction or repair work is up several storeys or takes over a high rise building then scaffolding is required as set out by the building standards regulations.
There are many types of safety standards which must be adhered to when constructing and using scaffolding. This is why it is always important to ensure that the scaffolder you use is a professional that is aware of the regulations.
Bamboo scaffolding is used in Asia! In the Western World you will find scaffolding to be made from metal.
Scaffold Sheeting – What is it and when do you need it?
There are many components that make up scaffolding such as base plates, ropes or ladders and in most cases scaffold sheeting. You will find that this is the most common type of protection that you will see in building works.
Scaffold sheeting is designed to protect your construction site from damage that could be caused by adverse weather such as wind, rain and snow. Made from sturdy materials such as Monarflex, the sheeting will be tied to the scaffolding poles in order to keep it in place.
Many people that chose scaffold sheeting will do so due to being able to have it painted or printed on. Companies can print their name, logo or details on scaffold sheeting and builders can advertise their services too.
Painted scaffold sheeting will ensure that the construction work is not an eyesore, as well as keeping it in tone with the rest of the area.
You can also get flame retardant scaffold sheeting which will further protect your construction site or repair work. Flame retardant products are covered in a special chemical that will prevent materials from catching fire easily.
Scaffold sheeting is the perfect way of protecting your construction site, repair work or building from fire, heavy wind, rain or snow.
Scaffolding netting or mesh can be used for projects that are large all small, however you will not have a wide choice of colours or designs available.Scaffold Netting – What is it and who needs it?
Scaffold netting works in a very similar way to scaffold sheeting, although is less flexible in terms of colours and designs. You may have seen netting on very large housing or industrial projects as it is cheaper to buy in bulk (from a company such as Laurier).
Most scaffold netting will come with cable ties to affix your protection to the scaffold itself. This will ensure that in times of adverse weather your building will be protected from the worst.
Scaffold netting can also come in a fire retardant version to protect your building even more. Therefore you will be protected from debris flying into your building and also reduce the likelihood of fire damage.
You will find that scaffold netting tends to be cheaper than scaffold sheeting due to it being much more plain and ordinary. You cannot print on netting like you can sheeting so it is the perfect choice for those who are looking for something quick and cost effective.
Scaffolding netting or mesh can be used for projects that are large all small, however you will not have a wide choice of colours or designs available.
You may be looking at getting scaffolding for your building due to repair works, or even a renovation. If this is the case then always ensure that the scaffolder you hire is a professional and aware of all building regulations.
When choosing the protection for your scaffolding bear in mind your budget and how you want it to look. Scaffold sheeting is a great advertising tool which will outweigh the extra costs; it also looks a lot nicer. Whereas scaffold netting is excellent for large projects in which a lot of protection is required.
Author: S Williams
Posted in News, Expert Commentary