Here at Network Scaffold, we consider the use of scaffolding to be an integral part of the design and survey process for glazing providers. For this blog, we look at the main criteria for the requirements for scaffold. The main reasons for scaffolding The two main factors in deciding on scaffold structures are the safety of glazing installers plus the ability to create the best professional finish possible. The safety of fitters cannot be overstated, with some companies working regularly with us as a scaffold partner to create an overall quote for window installation. In a nutshell, glazing installers are constantly trying to make sure installers are safe and achieve an excellent finish to their work, which is sometimes only possible using scaffolding. Many different types of properties present numerous challenges, including types of housing that can be extraordinarily diverse in terms of size, age, construction, ground conditions and glazing apertures. Here are some of the criteria incorporated into the decision to use scaffold structures. Height – If the work is above first-floor level it is recommended to use scaffold. Dormer windows – Dormer windows are often set back from the property roofline which means they can only be safely reached with scaffold. Lintels – When a steel lintel above a window is being installed, scaffold will normally be used unless the window is at ground floor level. Windows above conservatories or porches – Any type of structure that prevents installers from being able to put a ladder up to reach a window is considered an obstruction that requires scaffold structures. By systematically considering each of the aspects above, window installers will be able to decide whether the scaffold is needed and inform their clients in due course. Got more questions? Please contact us now If you have any more questions about using scaffolding for window replacement and installations, please do not hesitate to get in touch...
Read Moreabout Do I need scaffolding to replace my windows?
Network Scaffold work with a number of leading demolition contractors in Derby and Nottingham. Our scaffolding work covers a wide range of intricate, complex demolition, dismantling and deconstruction projects. The majority of these projects are in areas where space is limited. As standard, we also offer scaffolding protection and support for the duration of the demolition project. The demolition process explained A building’s demolition brings significant hazards, especially when the building or structure is so close to other buildings and live working environments. The type of demolition scaffold we offer is subject to the contractor’s chosen demolition method, which often requires full encapsulation of the building incorporating dust and falling debris measures. With most demolition work, a degree of asbestos removal invariably occurs, and we can provide fully licensed scaffold structures. Building encapsulation for top-down demolition With a number of local authorities redeveloping large housing estates, it involves the demolition of high-rise tower blocks. These blocks are very close to each other with the space around them being quite restricted. The most commonly used method of demolition is ‘top down’ which involves demolishing the building floor by floor. When conventional demolition occurs close to live environments, buildings, roads and railways, Network Scaffold will provide scaffold structures. We also provide safety decking for sections of buildings and structures that will allow workers to safely navigate the area without fear of falling. The disciplines of health and safety Here at Network Scaffold, the health and safety of workers and the general public is an integral part of our management function. We will always comply with all applicable laws and regulations and look to adapt our management resources to the latest recommendations. Get a no-obligation scaffolding quote from Network Scaffold If you are planning a demolition project soon, contact Network Scaffold Services today for a no-obligation quote for our scaffold structures. We have also recently added plastic hoarding and safety decking to our portfolio, giving our clients the full range of...
Read Moreabout Demolition scaffolding services from Network Scaffold
Construction sites have helped to create a lot of the infrastructure we see around today, including towering buildings and multi-story homes – with all of these structures erected using scaffolding. Scaffold from companies such as Network Scaffold Services allows workers to reach new heights while performing different buildings plus maintenance and repairs. According to industry statistics from OSHA, 65% of all construction workers perform some type of work on scaffolds each year. Put simply, they are a staple on construction sites for many different projects. We will tell you all you need to know about using scaffolds on construction sites for this blog. What are the dangers associated with scaffolding? The most common injury associated with scaffolds, is falls, with some structures becoming unstable due to adverse weather conditions. Problems can also arise if the parts are not properly secured or attached during assembly. Besides falls, improper planking can lead to injuries, such as – Wear and tear due to exposure to the elements Improper or incomplete inspections Overloading of people or equipment How to stay safe Before using scaffold structures it is important to receive training from a competent and qualified person. During training, the instructor needs to go over the proper use of scaffolding and handle certain materials plus load capacity. Make sure that you pay attention and retain the information as if any new hazards arise you will be ready. Additionally to training, make sure the scaffold is inspected by a qualified professional before using. Remember to always wear a hard hat when working on or under a scaffold plus some sturdy work boots.’ Contact us with any questions If you have any further questions about scaffolding, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Network Scaffold Services. Our team of experienced professionals will be more than happy to...
Read Moreabout Using scaffolding on construction sites
Here at Network Scaffold Services, we know all about the best way to work with scaffolding. If you have recently decided to undertake a construction project that requires a scaffold frame, it is important to know as much as possible before you start. For this blog, we will give you five handy tips to ensure your building will be safe and look fantastic once work is completed. Having confidence in your scaffolding structure 1) Plan ahead – Planning ahead makes your job easier and ensures all your equipment to complete the structure is readily available. This means that you will not be missing any important pieces and your structure meets all health and safety legislation. Having a few sketches of the proposed construction allows you to visualise the structure, so when placing orders for materials you will get everything you need. Sketches will also help explain the structure to the scaffold team during a briefing. Planning ahead ensures you have met all necessary requirements plus you will save time and money. 2) Construction ground – The foundations and conditions of the ground when building a scaffold is very important. Construction on uneven ground can be dangerous. Making sure the ground is level means the scaffold can be supportive even when conditions are wet. 3) Safety is a top priority – Safety is our number one priority at Network Scaffold Services. Making absolutely sure structures are safe and stable limits the chances of accidents on-site. Protective equipment such as hard hats, long sleeves, gloves, and goggles need to be worn when working with the scaffold. Protective equipment also needs to be used on scaffolding, such as safety rails and access gates to prevent anyone from falling from a height. 4) Creating a safe structure – Using safety decking gives you a safe working platform. The decking fits tightly together and ensures materials will not fall through the cracks to any other level when in use. Scaffolding also needs to be tied to the property for maximum protection. 5) Inspect scaffold – Scaffolding needs to be thoroughly checked out and inspected before being used. An inspection log has to be completed daily, detailing deterioration or signs of broken or partially damaged...
Read Moreabout 5 Ways to stay safe using scaffolding
Flat roofs, like any other type of roof, do require maintenance to ensure you don’t need to have any repairs completed using scaffolding. Traditionally easier to maintain than a regular roof, flat roofs are asphalt-based and other similar materials. Depending on the quality of the original installation and the continued maintenance, flat roofs can last up to 50 years before they need replacing. Their lifespan is almost as long as tiled roofs, which last for up to 60 years. We would generally recommend checking your roof every spring and autumn, plus after particularly harsh weather, such as storms, strong winds or heavy snowfall. Fixing a flat roof If you discover any splits, blistering or damages, the surface will need properly examining before hiring someone to fix your roof. First, the area will need clearing of any damp or water, but if the surface has split or blistering has occurred it will need repairing. Flat roof repairs for splitting Splitting is quite a common problem for flat roofs, which occurs when the felt or asphalt material covering the roof suffer from cracks or tears. This does not just affect the outer appearance of the roof, plus it also allows water to get in through the gaps and into the interior of your property which results in leaks and damage from damp which can be difficult to fix. Splits in roof material can be caused by a number of things, such as wear and tear from exposure to the elements, stresses on the material, water pooling, freeze-thawing or poor workmanship when it was initially installed. If you have started to notice staining or the beginning signs of dampness on your ceiling or the tops of the walls inside your property underneath a flat roof, this can be a sign of splitting or other damage to the roof that is allowing water to seep in. Ponding on flat roofs Ponding can cause deep concave indents to occur around the roof, with stains and watermarks occurring on the inside of your property. These indents will continue to collect water, damaging material which over time allows water to begin to seep through into your home’s interior. This is usually caused by insufficient drainage, which...
Read Moreabout How to avoid scaffolding for flat roof repairs
Here at Network Scaffold Services, we work with a number of different types of scaffolding, which are all used for different purposes in construction. For our latest blog, we will talk you through seven different kinds of scaffold available on the market and explain their uses. 7 Different types of scaffolding explained Single – This is commonly known as brick layer’s scaffolding and consists of standards, ledgers, putlogs, which is parallel to the wall at a distance of roughly 1.2m. The distance between the standards is between 2 and 2.5 metres, with ledgers connecting the standards at a vertical interval of 1.2-1.5m. Putlogs are taken out from the hole left in the wall to one end of the ledgers. Putlogs will then be placed at an interval of 1.2-1.5m. Double – Generally used for stone masonry, it is sometimes referred to as mason’s scaffolding. In stone walls, it is difficult to make holes in the wall to support putlogs. Two rows of scaffold will make this strong. Cantilever – This type of system has standards that are supported on a series of needles, that go through holes in the wall. This is known as single frame type scaffolding. For other types, needles are strutted inside the floors through the openings and are known as independent or double frame scaffold. Please note, care needs to be taken when constructing this system. Typically cantilever systems should be used in the following conditions – When the ground doesn’t have the capacity to support standards When the ground near the wall needs to be free from traffic When the upper part of the wall is under construction Suspended – A suspended working platform is based on roofs with the help of wire ropes or chains. This can be raised or lowered to the required level. The system is used for repair works, pointing and paintings. Trestle – For a trestle scaffold platform, it is supported on movable tripods or ladders and is generally used for work inside the room, such as paintings or repairs up to 5 metres in height. Steel – Steel platforms are constructed by steel tubes that are fixed together by steel couplers or fittings. Very easy to construct or...
Read Moreabout What are the different types of scaffolding?