Scaffolding is a must-have for certain jobs.  Any projects to the exterior of a building usually means that a lot of time will be spent working at height; whether that job is repointing, painting, cladding or fitting new windows, a considerable amount of time will be spent in the air, and then there is the issue of materials.  How will you transport raw materials up to the right height?  Where will they sit while you work?  Scaffolding answers all these questions, however, sometimes hiring a whole scaffold rig is a bigger outlay than is really needed, or there could be other reasons why a scaffold rig can’t be put up.

Ladder jack scaffold systems provide the stability and space of a scaffold tower without taking up a lot of space, so they are perfect for medium sized jobs on the exterior of a building.  The system takes up less space than a traditional scaffold set up, so it is perfect for use in tight spaces or in areas where it is not possible to set up a semi-permanent scaffold, such as around pathways and pavements.  They can be set up and dismantled quickly, making them perfect for use on domestic projects where the homeowners do not want scaffolding in the way over weekends.

Ladder jack scaffold systems involve two extension ladders with brackets attached, across which a scaffold plank can be laid.  The plank provides space for workers and materials and provides safe access to an expanse of wall.  There are two types of bracket that can be used – side rail or rung jacks.  The first type attaches to the side rails and one rung of the ladder, with the plank sitting behind the ladders close to the wall.  The second type attaches to two or three rungs of the ladders and the plank sits in front of the ladders, away from the wall.  The type used depends on the building and the project – some jobs are better done with some distance from the wall while others are better done in close proximity.  It is worth noting, that it is slightly easier to access the plank using the first style of bracket.

Portable scaffold towers offer another alternative to a full semi-permanent scaffold and are just as easy to set up and use.  They typically have lockable wheels at the base to enable quick relocation of the tower as the job progresses, and with wide leg stabilisers at each corner, the sense of stability is second to none.  For jobs that require a lot of height, such as working on a roof or chimney breast, a scaffold tower offers excellent height access and the stability you need when working so high up.  There are models for DIYers and professional tradespeople alike, so there's an option for everyone.  Some DIY model gives over six metres of reach and can be assembled quickly on the ground, before being raised into position.  Four large stabilising legs provide excellent stability, while the two trapdoor planks allow you to work at two heights on the same job, great for repairing windows on two floors, on the same day. 

For the professional there are several options, but the Lewis Access system is fantastic value and offers single or double width models.  The range is huge, with working heights up to 13.7 metres in the double width size, and up to 14.2 metres of working height in the single width offering.  For tradespeople working on commercial and industrial buildings this height is fantastic, allowing access to signage, lighting and buildings sidings for repair and maintenance.  All their scaffold towers conform to BS EN1004 regulations and are safe for use on construction sites and commercial estates.  Extra platforms and toe boards are available to build the system up, so you can add to your set up as and when extra components are needed.

Both the scaffold tower and ladder jack set ups are designed to be set up and dismantled on the same day, but can be left in place overnight if needed.  The great benefit to the ease with which these systems can be moved, is that it makes them perfect for quick or short term jobs as well as the more time consuming projects where a full scaffold is not suitable.  Whether you are a DIYer or a tradesperson, there is a scaffold solution out there for you and investing in one will make your jobs safer and easier.  Take a look at our full range today.