4 Signs You Should Use Aluminium Scaffolding on Your Next Project
If you are buying scaffolding so you can work at heights, there are a few different options on the market. Aluminium scaffolding is growing in popularity, and while it's not right for every occasion, it works perfectly in some situations. Here are a few signs you may want to choose aluminium scaffolding for your project.
1. You Want a Lightweight and Portable Solution
If you need to move the scaffolding frequently, you may enjoy the lightweight nature of aluminium. It is considerably lighter than steel tubing scaffolds, and the aluminium platforms are also lighter than their timber counterparts.
This is ideal if you are painting a large building and need to move the scaffolding around as you go. This option also works for companies or independent contractors who handle a lot of different jobs and want to be able to move their materials relatively easily.
In addition to being lightweight, a lot of aluminium scaffolding can be easily taken apart and quickly put back together. That adds to its portability and convenience.
2. You Have a Sturdy Ground Surface
Because aluminium is so lightweight, you typically need a smoother, harder surface than you do with other types of scaffolding. Many other types of scaffolding can be braced at the bottom so that it doesn't sink into the ground, or the legs can be adjusted to account for differences in elevation.
3. You Want an Integrated Ladder
A lot of scaffolding injuries occur when workers try to climb the scaffolding. To prevent that, you typically need to use a separate ladder, and that means hauling even more equipment from spot to sport. Luckily, with aluminium scaffolding, you can often find designs that have the ladder integrated into them.
Note that for exceptionally high work, you may still need to use an auxiliary ladder. Generally, built-in ladders are for single story scaffolding.
4. You Are Working in Dry Conditions
The work surfaces of aluminium scaffolding tends to also be made of aluminium. That can easily become slippery in wet conditions. If you want to avoid that, you may want to opt for steel and timber scaffolding.
However, in some cases, you can fit a timber deck onto aluminium scaffolding. If you pursue this option, make sure that the timber is secure. Otherwise it may slip off the sides. The timber will absorb some of the water so the working conditions aren't as dangerous.