There is a tool for every job, and then there is a tool that is a little bit better. Indeed, scaffolding is a great tool for those that need to do work on high interior or exterior walls, but many are not aware that there are different types of scaffolding that are meant for specific jobs. If you have decided that you are going to rent this equipment, you should know exactly what type you need. The information below should help you to learn about the various types of scaffolding, and help you decide exactly which kind you need to use for your particular job.
Aerial Lifts
Aerial lifts are fantastic pieces of equipment that can make any painting, masonry, or window cleaning job easier. Whereas a traditional type of scaffolding will be set to a specific height, aerial lifts have variable heights. Usually electric or hydraulic, these lifts can extend to many different heights. This makes them perfect for jobs that will require you to be changing your elevation very frequently. For example, if you are painting a wall, it would certainly be helpful to be able to move vertically with ease. The only real downside to using this type of scaffolding is the fact that it requires some form of power to operate, and that could add some level of cost to your job.
Suspended Scaffolding
Like aerial lifts, suspended scaffolding can change its vertical position while workers are on the scaffold. Unlike aerial lifts, however, suspended scaffolding is best for very tall structures, and is usually used for window cleaning. Rather than having a base on the ground, this type of scaffold is suspended from the roof. This type of scaffold obviously wouldn’t be useful indoors, or on jobs that are fairly low to the ground.
Cantilever Scaffolding
Not all buildings are constructed in a way that makes them easy to work on from the outside, but cantilever scaffolds can help with this problem. Cantilever scaffolding works a bit differently than the other types of scaffolds in that it is designed to be able to navigate structures that are not constructed perfectly vertically. If there is an inward slope on the outside of the building, this would be the right piece of equipment to use.
Single Pole Scaffolding
Unlike other forms of scaffolding, single pole scaffolds rely on the building for structural support. Essentially, these scaffolds attach directly to the building so that they do not fall over. Rather than being a separate structure, they become an extension of the building. This type of scaffolding is useful for construction jobs, such as masonry, but is not useful for maintenance jobs unless exterior walls are being removed or replaced.
DIY Scaffold Towers
This kind of scaffold is best for consumers that have small construction or maintenance jobs at home, or for professionals that have small to medium jobs. These scaffolds do not require any external structure for support, and can easily be constructed and broken down. TopTower scaffold towers are great for residential jobs and many small jobs at places of business.
