If we’re being real with one another, the majority of the public views scaffolding as nothing more than a few basic components (metal poles and planks) arranged in parallel lines. Yet, if you find yourself dealing with a structure resembling more of a form of contemporary art than simply a rectangular box – say you’re erecting scaffolding for a historical dome located within the Central Business District; or, you’re installing scaffolding on a bridge with irregularly configured under-slung areas; or, you’re constructing scaffolding to reach high points on curved surfaces on a refinery tank; then standard scaffolding arrangements won’t suffice to get the job done right. Think of it this way: trying to place a square peg into a round hole – if you attempt to force the peg into its destination, you will create chaos (and waste a lot of money) very quickly. When tackling a design challenge epidemic to current-day architecture, and facing a building that challenges conventional thought processes, you will want to work with a scaffolding provider who speaks the language of ‘bespoke.’ The best way to find out about the cost of hiring scaffolding that’s truly out-of-the-ordinary, and how we customise scaffolding/installation processes for these unusual architectural structures, is by contacting us directly and asking for information regarding how to complete your project easily.
The Engineering Deep Dive: Beyond the Blueprint
When it comes to working with unique structures, we do not simply grab a “standard kit” off the shelf. We begin by utilising a large volume of engineering and site-specific research.
- Precision Surveying: For structures with complex shapes we frequently employ the use of 3D modelling or accurate site surveys to ensure that the scaffold does not merely “get close” to the structure, but instead becomes one with it.
- Weight & Load Distribution: In addition to being formed in an irregular manner, many of today’s unique structures also have irregular load bearing capabilities. We perform rigorous calculations to establish an exact method for distributing the weight of the scaffold over the surface of the unique structure in order to prevent excess stress from being applied to any fragile or delicate areas; this is particularly critical during the restoration of Historic Buildings.
- Environmental Considerations: Is the building over water? Are there at least 2 structural buildings on either side? We assess wind load and ground stability to verify that the scaffolding job will remain stable (i.e., all materials will stay securely in place as much as geometrically possible).
Tailoring the Tech: Modular vs. Custom
For the purpose of creating a curve around a corner or a cantilevered balcony, we utilize several specialty systems.
- Modular Scaffolding (Ringlock)- this is the premier system for scaffold hire Brisbane, with 360-degree connection points, allowing us to build circular or angled platforms that are “attached” to the side of a building.
- Tube & Fitting – When we encounter extreme angles where the modular system will not work it is necessary to go back to basics, tube and fitting. This provides total flexibility to allow us to build around pipes and statues or make adjustments with a high degree of accuracy to offset jagged rooflines.
- Suspended & Cantilevered Scaffolds – Sometimes the ground will not be suitable for supporting scaffolding; therefore we work with the design of our suspended scaffolds to hang down from a height or “reach out” from the side to provide access to hard to reach areas.
Safety as the Silent Partner
In a conventional rectangular structure, the method for providing safety is quite simple; however, in an unconventional structure, it is an ongoing calculation.
- Finding the Correct Anchor Points: We do not simply bolt to any surfaces; we find out what the “bones” of the building are in order to correctly secure the scaffold without damaging the building.
- Edge Protection: With irregular shapes, you find irregular voids; therefore, we can either use custom-cut plywood or specially made netting, so that no tool or person can fall any distance to “open air” at any location along the edge.
Navigating the Logistics and Costs
We know that when you are searching for scaffolding hire costs, you are looking for those who give proper efficiency. Custom does not always have to mean over budget.
| Factor | Standard Structure | Unusual Structure |
| Design Time | Minimal | High (Requires Engineering) |
| Labour | Faster Assembly | Skilled, Specialised Team |
| Material | Standard Kits | Mixed Systems & Custom Brackets |
When you invest in a custom designed product from the start, it saves you money as your workers won’t have to “figure it out” on-site for as long. The platform is in the correct position so that your painters, masons and glaziers can work more quickly and safely than if they had to mannequin and create their own platforms at that time.
Conclusion
Most of the time, a different type of building structure can be an eyesore and a challenge, but, in theory, it’s meant to be a focal point of excitement. To continue with the thought process of thinking about how you may use a type of scaffolding material as just a construction material, you need to start looking at the use of scaffolding as an extremely well-designed precision tool.
When you stop thinking in terms of good or good enough solutions to your building’s design issues, and you decide to use a unique and purpose-built solution designed specifically for your building’s unique characteristics, the overall project/structure becomes much more effective, much safer, and much more successful overall.
If you are interested in seeing how custom design could change how your building project gets completed, type in Supreme Scaffolding Brisbane – there you will see the ultimate solutions to your specific needs. Our company specialises in the impossible work, and in every instance, we will ensure that your team will have the most effective location possible to stand and work.
FAQs
Q: My building has a really weird shape. Can you actually fit a scaffold around it without damaging the facade?
A: Yes, this type of scaffolding installation is the best option because it is more flexible than a standard frame and can be adjusted at any angle using either a tube-and-fitting or modular ringlock system. We can “hug” curves, bridge delicate gardens, and cantilever off the roof to get your staff as close as possible to their work without damaging or even making contact with the building itself.
Q: How do “unusual structures” affect my scaffolding hire costs?
A: That is an excellent question. A custom-made scaffold typically requires more time and effort to create than a simple flat-towe scaffold, due to the higher degree of planning and the fact that there will be increased risk, but at Supreme Scaffolding Brisbane, our future will be built on the successful implementation of “Value Engineering”. In this way through clever engineering solutions and redesigning the projects with a larger base area, we can often reduce the amount of scaffold time required on-site. This helps to keep your final total scaffolding costs from escalating tremendously.
Q: I’m doing a small residential project in the suburbs. Do you guys handle “Scaffold Hire Brisbane” for smaller, tricky homes?
A: Absolutely! All scaffold projects are treated with the same precision, regardless of size, from an enormous commercial development to a two-storey Queensland-style home that has awkward, tight access down one side! Safety and difficult access properties are what we do, and there is no job too small when it comes to either of these projects. Scaffold hire Brisbane residents rely on is Scaffolding Brisbane, because we know the rules of the local councils and what restrictions can apply to the specific area you will be scaffolding in!
Q: How long does the installation take for a complex or non-standard structure?
A: It usually takes us three hours or less to install scaffolds on a standard architectural building; for an unusual building like a church steeple or bridge, it may take one or two days with great care being taken during assembly. In either case, however, we do most of the work involved in designing the system so that onsite at your location, installing the scaffolding takes very little time and is minimally disruptive.