A buyer's guide to scaffold towers

Scaffolding is something, that has been in use since ancient Egypt if not before. Certainly, scaffold towers of some kind, were used in the construction of the great pyramids in Egypt, as well as in China when building the Great Wall. This article will give an overview of scaffold towers.

Step or working platform scaffolding

History The first scaffold equipment was rudimentary, as most likely, the wood was lashed together. Indeed, not until the twentieth century, did steel and aluminum begin to be used in the construction of scaffolding. Types of scaffolding available Both companies and private citizens can buy scaffolding in various configurations. When you are in the market for scaffolding on sale, it's helpful to be able to identify the basic types of scaffolding available.
Step or working platform scaffolding
If you need scaffolding to access your gutters or lesser heights, then the step or working platform scaffolding will work well for you. As the name implies, you can access the working platform (or platforms, of you have more than one), via a steep set of steps. This configuration will allow you to access a solid platform on which to work. This form of scaffolding has a safety rail around the top of the platform.

Tower scaffold

Description This type of scaffold is in use at commercial construction sites, though a home owner can purchase them as well. The tower in the name implies that it can be built upon by fitting the sides into brackets. Hence, it is possible to have more than one platform stacked one on top of the other to allow the workers access to great heights. Pipe staging Another name for this type of scaffolding is pipe staging, as the staging consists of heavy-duty steel pipes.

Mobile or pump scaffolding

Description Mobile or pump scaffolding is most often made from aluminum, as the metal offers both strength and lightness, making it easier to be carried and set up by workers. This type of scaffold tower consists of two long poles, with arms extending from them upon which a platform or plank rests. Adjusting the height The scaffolding is adjustable via a pump, that allows the height of the scaffold's platform to be adjusted up and down. The scaffolding is attached to the roof of a solid part of the building, thus preventing it from tipping backward away from the building. Safety net The pump scaffolding often has a safety net along the back of the platform, which prevents workers from falling from it. The safety net is also used by companies to advertise their name or the name of the project.