Intend to use Secondhand Scaffolding? So what are the Benefits?

The first question to ask is – Why Use Scaffolding?

Ever tried to access that high end gable off a ladder? Then you will understand how inefficient that – has to keep going up and down for materials and tools. What do you do when you manage to get them up there? Where can you put them so that not only are they safe but you are safe and anyone below is safe? The obvious answer is to use scaffolding. Scaffolding is often used in many home DIY and construction projects. It doesn’t matter whether you are working inside or outside the property, scaffolding will offer a much more secure and sturdy work surface to a ladder. It will also allow more than one person to work at a time in the same area – doubling you level of efficiency. Scaffolding will help you whether you are painting walls or ceilings indoors or outside repairing gutters.

Scaffolding forms a temporary platform that can span a large distances. Scaffolding uses a system of jacks combined with steel pipes which form support pieces for walk boards. Scaffolding allows workers to move safely along the face of a construction project above the ground.

What Are The Benefits of Second Hand Scaffolding?

In general terms scaffolding can be quite expensive. Most homeowners will not use it often because of the perceived cost. However, when a project deamnds it, scaffolding can be a great time and labor saver. A good alternative to new scaffolding is to buy used or second hand scaffolding. Buying second hand scaffolding makes a great alternative to investing in new. Once purchased, providing that you look after it, your second hand scaffolding should last a lifetime. This is because scaffolding is made of such solid materials. Often the steel pipes are painted for extra protection, plus the walk boards can be easily replaced as they become worn or damaged.

So – if you have considered purchasing scaffolding, but have been put it off because of the high cost, why not consider second hand scaffolding. Ok, used scaffolding might not look as neat and pristine as newer scaffolding but the way used scaffolding looks certainly will not affect the strength or the durability of the scaffolding itself.

How do I Choose Second Hand Scaffolding?

When you make a decision to buy used scaffolding, there are some things that you will need to consider before you go shopping. Always take your time before you first purchase your scaffolding. Do this to make sure that you are happy with your purchase so that it will last for a long time.

* Check the integrity of the structure. The steel pipes that make up the sides of the scaffolding should be straight, strong and free of rust and holes. However, although the scaffolding may have a small amount of surface rust, you may still want to buy it but plan to have clean and paint it as quickly as possible. This will stop the rust from weakening the frame.

* Check the strength of any ladders. Check out the rungs and other supports. Whilst the jack section of the scaffolding may be substantial, ladder rungs and back rails can often be a smaller size pipe. Always check them carefully for rust or weak spots. You will, in addition, need to check all of the areas where the smaller pieces of steel are joined to the larger structure. Nothing is more dangerous than leaning back against, or stepping onto a piece of metal could give beneath you when you are high in the air.

* Check all of the walk boards. It is not unusual for the walk boards to become worn or damaged in used scaffolding. This should not put you off buying second hand scaffolding as these walk boards can easily replaced without too much extra cost. However, you must not to ‘make do just this one time’ with any boards that are worn, have become wet and are weakened. Always make sure that boards are long enough and wide enough for your comfort. Never overlap short boards.

What can I do to extend the Life of My Second Hand Scaffolding? Having made the investment in your own set of second hand scaffolding, you will be surprised at just how many new friends that you have. Used scaffolding is always very handy. You may find yourself loaning it out quite a lot. If you care for your second hand scaffolding it will last a long time, and don’t forget, you will be able to sell it on yourself one day. Second hand scaffolding can be a great investment which will save you both time and, in the long term, money. Don’t forget the resale value of your second hand scaffolding.

In order to help extend the life of your scaffolding, always store it in a covered area. Inside is best but even a covered shed will be better than leaning against the outside of your home. Also you will need to take the walk boards off of the scaffolding between use. This prevents moisture from becoming trapped between the boards and the pipes and also prevents you from creating what is considered ‘an attractive nuisance’ – a hazard that could cause injury to children.

The last things to consider is every year or so, take sometime out to scrub your used scaffolding with a wire brush. When you notice any areas developing rust, sand the rust off and paint the area. If you do this, you can help your scaffolding last a long time, maintain its resale value and prevent you or someone else from being injured.