Sometimes reaching difficult places requires more than simply hanging out a window or standing on a chair. Whether building work is being done or the exterior of your property is being painted, you’ll probably need scaffolding.
What is It?
Scaffolding is a system of walking boards and steel poles that allows workers to perform their work in a safe manner. Modular scaffolding services are typically used outside, but in some cases it is used indoors. A good example of this is if vaulted ceilings need to be accessed.
As previously mentioned, you don’t want to reach certain places using methods like standing on a chair. Doing so can be extremely dangerous. Not only that, but sometimes it is impossible to reach specific areas of a building when it’s being worked on or painted, which is why scaffolding is required in these instances.
Some roofers and decorators do have their own access towers. However, these are typically small framed, and don’t offer contractors much flexibility. This means in order to get the job done safely, it’s a good idea to research scaffold hire prices on a site like Quotatis.
As previously mentioned, Scaffolding consists of sturdy steel pools and durable walking boards, which are much better than the access towers that decorators and roofers often use. The bottom line is scaffolding is the better option when it comes to trying to access vaulted ceilings, as well as for building work.
Scaffolders typically provide handrails and ladders. Not only that, but they have equipment that specifically allows them to work in tough spaces, such as bridging over a conservatory or narrow alleyway. A scaffold system can also consist of several levels, but with each level comes an increase in price.
Comparing Quotes
It’s a good idea to compare quotes because you could end up saving over 30% in costs. With that said, let’s discuss a few factors that affect price. The top factors include:
Region
The region where you reside in plays a major factor in price. In fact, the final price can be affected by a number of regional variations. Not only that, but access considerations, height and flexibility come into play. All of these things will be reflected in the final price.
Length Of Hire
Six to eight weeks is the standard hiring period throughout the scaffolding industry. You’ll likely be provided a fixed rate for this length. However, you can expect to pay an additional weekly rate if you intend to hire out scaffolding for longer than eight weeks.
Height
Another pricing factor is height. As previously mentioned, the more levels of scaffolding required, the more you’ll pay. Other height-related factors include needing to scale to alleyways that are narrow, or if footings will be placed on public land.
The Location
Location is a major consideration. Generally speaking, London is one of the more expensive places to hire scaffolding. Meanwhile, remote locations throughout Scotland tend to be cheap.
Walking Levels
The number of walking levels required will factor into price. The more levels you need, the more money you’ll pay. One lift is typically required for things such as working on a roof or chimney. However, you might need several walkways if you plan on painting your house.
Public Access Restrictions
Sometimes scaffolding will need to be placed on public roads or footpaths. If this happens, then you’ll have to contact the local council to obtain a licence. Doing this does cost money and in some cases it can be very expensive.
Special Requirements
Working on a project on private land is the easiest way to build scaffolding. However, special requirements are a must in some cases, such as when you have to go over a pathway, driveway or a conservatory. It will cost you more to do things like this, but it will make getting the job done a lot less stressful.
Ease Of Access
Finally, price is impacted by how accessible a building site is. If you can’t gain access to side passages, then your project will cost more.