A quality scaffolding system guarantees the safety of builders, painters, roofers and electricians working at heights. As a DIY builder, you may not know much about scaffold systems, yet you could need them as you renovate your property. Below are some scaffolding facts for DIY home builders. 

Types of Scaffolds

Scaffolding can be categorised according to its use and size. For instance, steel scaffolding is what you will find on most construction sites. The scaffold is large enough to surround the structure under construction and can handle massive weights. Cantilever scaffolding is a steel scaffold pinned to the walls of the building. It is ideal when the ground below contains unstable soils or is a busy street. You could opt for a trestle scaffolding for light construction or home improvement works. The equipment is several feet wide, light and portable. However, it has height limits, unlike cantilever and steel scaffolding. A suspended scaffold comes in handy when conducting repair works on the upper floors of a complete structure. Typically, you install the scaffold on the top floor and use pulleys or a hoist or lower and raise it as you work. 

How to Rent a Scaffolding 

Buying a scaffold would be impractical if you need the equipment for several hours or days. Instead, rent the equipment from a scaffolding hire company in your locality. Consider these tips as you rent the scaffold: 

• Physically inspect the scaffold to ensure the poles and couplers do not have structural defects that could compromise the equipment's safety.
• Inquire about the scaffolding manufacturing company. It helps you establish whether the equipment has certification from local government agencies and international quality control organisations.
• Inquire about the scaffold's weight and height limits to determine its suitability for your project.
• Since you may not have used scaffolding in the past, ask the rental company to deploy a scaffolder to install, inspect and dissemble the scaffold. 

Scaffolding Safety

Some of the risks of using scaffolding include falls, slips and scaffolding collapse. However, this should not happen if you prioritise safety when using the scaffold. For instance, inspect the scaffolding after installation to ensure all components are tightly locked. Besides, test the scaffold's stability. When using a mobile scaffold, lock the castors before boarding the platform. Wear safety clothing such as boots and helmets when working on the platform. Besides, create a reliable communication strategy to prevent accidents caused by miscommunication. For example, inform colleagues working on the platform when boarding or disembarking the platform. Finally, avoid using the platform during rains and storms.  

For more information, contact a local company that offers scaffolding services.