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How to rent scaffoldings

Whether you have been contracted to work on a 12-story office building, or just need roof repair on your own home, scaffolding can help you get the job done, by giving you a steady platform and ample workspace. The most important thing about renting scaffolding is choosing the correct style in to maintain the safety of the crew and get the job done right. Read on to learn how to rent scaffolding.

1. Determine whether or not you will need fixed, mobile or hanging scaffolding.

Fixed scaffolding is either independent, meaning it does not need support from the building, or putlog, which uses the building to secure the working platform. Mobile scaffolding is an independent and freestanding structure mounted on wheels, to allow for easy moving. Hanging scaffolding has a suspended platform that can be raised and lowered and is most often used for washing windows.

2. Estimate a budget for scaffolding rental, but make sure that you put safety before economy.

Many companies that rent scaffolding have websites with estimator tools that allow you to input project plans in order to determine pricing. Even if you choose to rent locally, these estimator tools can help you choose the correct style for the job.

3. Compare prices on scaffolding rentals.

Though researching scaffolding rentals online is helpful in determining a budget, it is usually best to rent locally to avoid expensive shipping costs. A comprehensive search of your local telephone directory will offer a world of rental services. Large rental services can offer expert advice, replacement parts, easy delivery and you can inspect the scaffolding before renting.

4. Rent special scaffold planks.

Even though you may be tempted to save money, by using your own. Scaffold planks are specially built for scaffolding and offer the safest fit.

5. Add toeboards to your rental order.

If people will be walking underneath your scaffolding. Toeboards can help prevent tools from falling off the platform, protecting the safety of pedestrians and workers below.

How to Buy Scaffolding

While it may be convenient to rent scaffolding for the odd project, if you are a contractor, it may be more economical to buy your own scaffolding. There are many styles of scaffolding available, so you will need to select the set up that best fits your needs. Read on to learn how to buy scaffolding.

1. Decide what kind of scaffolding you would like to buy.

Folding scaffolding provides great rigidity and an easy setup, but is difficult to stack, which makes working at very tall heights, difficult. Standard scaffolding comes with jacks and brackets and requires manual assembly, but it is easier to store and stack. If you do most of your work inside, buy indoor scaffolding, which is less weather resistant, but often comes with locking wheels, which makes for easier portability.

2. Purchase extra pieces, replacement parts and add-ons for your set up

Regardless of scaffolding style or whether you are buying used or new, it is important that you are able to purchase extra pieces, replacement parts and add-ons for your set up. So, make sure that the manufacturer that you choose makes all of the pieces that you will need, as you should not mix parts from different companies. For more information visit www.eHow.com