Anyone who works in the construction business is most likely familiar with scaffolding. Scaffolds provide construction workers with a temporary platform on which to work and are most used for either building-repairing or cleaning a structure, Maintenance of Lights and Other machinery where approach is difficult.
Scaffolds are generally made out of steel or aluminum, but for those who work in construction, there are many advantages to using aluminum scaffolds even though they cost more than steel scaffolds. Here are five advantages that aluminum scaffolding has to offer over steel scaffolding.
Aluminum Scaffolding is Lightweight
Scaffolding made from aluminum weighs much less. In fact, an aluminum scaffold that is less than half as much as one made out of steel.
Because of its light weight, not only is aluminum scaffolding easier to transport from one location to the next, but also it is easier to erect and dismantle when on the job site.
Less Labor Required for Aluminum Scaffolding Erection
When aluminum scaffolding is used there is generally less labor required. Not only is less manpower needed, but also cranes might not be needed either. When working with aluminum scaffolding, it minimizes the risk of injuries and lifting incidences while on the job.
When aluminum scaffolding is used instead of steel scaffolding, only two men may be required to erect and dismantle against four men required for Steel. Also, aluminum scaffolding can be transported in a smaller truck.
Aluminum Scaffolding Can Erect More Quickly
Scaffolding made from aluminum is easier to set up in general, and also goes up more quickly than scaffolding made out of steel. Aluminum scaffolding comes equipped with high strength casters making installation fast and easy. Its H frame structure block combination design usually doesn’t require any kind of installation tools.
Because they are so easy to assemble and take apart, construction workers can get from one job site to another with minimal downtime.
Aluminum Scaffolding Has a Variety of Uses
No matter what kind of job you need a scaffold for, aluminum scaffolding has a variety of uses. Here are just a few of them:
a. Narrow span and wide Span scaffolds – rolling towers that can get erected without the need for any tools
b. Stairway – Ease of access to platforms when required for safe climb with tools and machinery
c. Folding base scaffolds – unfolds and locks into place to provide an instant base
Besides these types of scaffolds, custom scaffolds can also be made of aluminum.
Aluminum Scaffolding Lasts Longer
If scaffolding made from aluminum gets scratched, it forms an oxidized layer that helps to protect the inner core. This natural layer of aluminum oxide prevents the metal underneath it from getting exposed to air and oxygen. Compare this when scratching scaffolding made from steel, which can potentially rust and will eventually weaken the structure of the scaffold.
Even after aluminum scaffolding gets used over and over again, and gets exposed to the elements, it won’t chip or rust. Aluminum is also known for being dent resistant and more resilient, which not only makes it durable, but also helps it to last longer.
