Fix Portable Scaffolding: 4 Tips

Portable scaffolding is a unique type of scaffolding that allows for portability by attaching casters to the bottom of each of the support poles or standards. Just like with any type of scaffold, however, this type of scaffolding does occasionally require repairs. This guide will offer tips on how to fix portable scaffolding.

Appraise Repair Needs

Before you go about repairing your scaffolding, you need to have a good idea of where the repairs are most necessary. The most important aspect of your scaffolding is its structural integrity, since its purpose is to safely hold you up above the ground. You are going to want to test the strength of the walk ways and planks that you stand on, the screws and nails that hold those planks together, and the steel metal pipes and bars that hold the entire structure together. Signs of rot in the wood or rust in the metal are two good indicators that repairs need to be made.

Make a list of the issues that you see when examining your portable scaffolding. Make sure that you assemble the scaffolding and test its stability rather than looking at the separate pieces when they are disassembled. Take care to make sure that there is no wobbling, that the casters are still secure and stable, and that the wooden planks are still capable of holding their maximum weight allowance.

Repair Metal Structure

The metal structure is what holds the walkways and platforms in place, and needs to maintain a high level of structural integrity for your safety. You should periodically check to make sure that everything is working as it should. Now take care to replace any steel bars or poles that do not seem to be holding up as well as they used to. Repairing these poles is not easy, so replacing them is generally in your best interest.

Repair Wooden Planks

The wooden planks, platforms and walkways that make the scaffolding what it is can sometimes experience wear and tear as a result of their use. If they are still withstanding the weight requirements, then they do not need replacing. You can sand them to remove dents and other damage, and apply a sealant product to prevent them from becoming more worn as a result of harsh weather. If you are unsure about the structural integrity of a certain plank, replace it rather than attempting to repair it.

Check Screws and Other Hardware

Screws, nails and other hardware in your portable scaffolding are capable of becoming worn, rusted or otherwise damaged over time. This is especially true if you are regularly taking down and putting up the scaffolding. If you are concerned about a specific piece of hardware involved in the construction of your scaffolding, it would be wise to replace the screw or nail rather than to attempt repairing it. Corrosion can occur as a result of rusting, so any screws, bolts or nails showing signs of rust should be thoroughly cleaned and sealed for protection or completely replaced.