5 Step Process to Buying a Mobile Scaffold



We recently discussed the frequently asked questions when purchasing a mobile scaffold and boiled it down into a 5-step process that covers the key considerations when buying a new scaffold.
Assuming that you understand that a mobile scaffold is the best solution for the job, this guide will help you select the right type of mobile scaffold for your project requirements.

1. Is the tower for Indoor or Outdoor use?

It's important to consider the type of work you'll be doing, as this will determine which range is needed. Generally, the Foldaway and Mini Mobile ranges are used for indoor work, while the MOBI and H-Frame ranges are used for outdoor work. However, both ranges can be used for both indoor and outdoor tasks.

2. What reach height do you need?

Determine the height you need to reach, and then you can figure out the platform height required. Typically, we recommend allowing an additional 2m from the platform height to determine the reach height. For example, if you need to reach 6m, we would suggest a tower with a platform height of 4m.

3. Double Width or Single Width? 

The next consideration is the width of the mobile scaffold tower. If you will have 2 people working from the same scaffold tower, we always recommend a double-width tower. Another consideration is the work area space and whether the tower's footprint will fit where you plan to work. A typical single widths are 700mm wide, 800mm wide and a typical double width is 1400mm wide.

4. Length of the Tower.

When deciding on the length of the tower, consider where you will be using it and what you will be using it for.

If the location is tight and you need to move it through doorways frequently, a longer tower might not be suitable. However, if you are working along the face of a wall or a long object, a longer tower can increase productivity by reducing the need to get down and move the tower.

When spending a reasonable amount of time in one location, such as doing maintenance work on machinery, the length may not be a high priority. On the other hand, for trades that require frequent movement, such as painting, a longer tower is more effective as it provides a larger surface to work on before moving.

Common tower lengths are 1.4m, 1.7m, 2.0m, 2.4m, and 3.0m.

5. Bracing Type

The final consideration is bracing. Smaller mobile towers and most other brands do not offer a choice of bracing. However, with our larger and heavy-duty models, we provide both steel bracing and aluminum snap-lock bracing options.

Steel Bracing: 

Double Width (1.37m) H Frame Platform with Steel Scissor Bracing

Pros: Low cost & simple installation 

Cons: Heavier than Aluminum Bracing 

Aluminium Snaplock Bracing: 

Double Width (1.37m) H Frame Platform with Snaplock Bracing

Pros: Lighter & more versatile with the rest of the Easy Access range. Snaplock Colour coded for easy installation.

Cons: More pricy than steel.

 

The Verdict?

By running through these 5 points we can help point you to the right mobile tower for you. Try it below or give us a call to discuss. 

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