FAQs

You can, but it won’t be very safe! Scaffolding has a more stable base than ladders, making it much safer to use because it sits flush or square to the ground. On the other hand, when a ladder is just propped against a wall or building there is very little to stop it from toppling over.

Scaffolding also offers your contractor a larger area to work from rather than a small step on a ladder. When using ladders another person is often required to hold them in place but this is not necessary with scaffold, meaning one person can achieve more in much less time.

It isn’t a good idea to. At SWP we would advise you not to attempt erecting your own scaffolding, but to hire in scaffolding specialists. There are many risks involved in working at height and only a skilled expert will be able to assess these risks and erect your scaffolding safely.

Yes, we are skilled and experienced scaffolders, used to working across a range of different domestic and commercial projects. Our qualifications include:

• CISRS Scaffolder card holders
• CISRS Advanced Scaffolding certificate
• CISRS Scaffolding Part 2 – which means we’re qualified to erect, amend and dismantle scaffolding structures
• Confined spaces certificates
• IPAF certificate – meaning we can use powered access equipment
• PCS trained – meaning we can work on railways
• first aiders

Yes! One of the great benefits of scaffolding is that it can sit safely on uneven or sloping ground, thanks to having adjustable vertical components which mean any irregularities in the ground surface are tackled.

If you’re concerned about whether it will be safe and possible to erect scaffolding on a certain piece of land, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss your plans with us.

Yes it is. Another great benefit of scaffolding is that it’s extremely flexible and adaptable – as long as it’s erected by a skilled expert who knows how to use scaffold to its full potential. We’re able to reach those difficult places using a number of different methods, and can supply the additional fittings and pieces required to do this.

Because gardens are generally soft ground, there is always a slight chance that the weight of scaffolding can cause some damage. In the case of gardens we will always do everything in our power to minimise damage caused to your lawns, shrubs and trees.

Our charges vary depending on your requirements – for example, the scaffolding system you require, how technically difficult it is to erect, and how long you want it to remain in situ. To get a free, no-obligation quote, you can call us on 01883 371 459. We’re confident you’ll find that are prices are extremely competitive.

Yes, we have public liability insurance to the value of £10 million. This means that in the very unlikely event of something going wrong with your scaffolding, it is covered.

There are two main choices of material for scaffold – steel and aluminium. Aluminium is often suitable for customers who need scaffolding for a short period of time, as it’s light and cheap, making it quick and easy to erect. Meanwhile steel is a wiser choice if you need your scaffold in place for a longer period of time, as it’s very durable. However, it is heavy and more expensive, so takes longer to erect. However, once it’s in situ, it can remain in place for a long time.

Yes. It’s very important that all scaffold and working platforms are inspected regularly. This is particularly true where alterations have been made to the scaffold, or if there has been adverse weather such as strong winds and snow.

We recommend that scaffolding is inspected once a week to ensure that changes in the environment or its structure haven’t affected the strength or security of the scaffold. At SWP Scaffolding, we regularly and thoroughly inspect all our scaffold erections.

In the majority of cases, you don’t need a permit. However, if your scaffolding sits on a public right of way, such as a pavement or a footpath, you may need a permit. As your scaffolding firm, we will check whether a permit is required and make the application for you, ensuring it is in place before any work begins.

We’d be delighted to talk to you about any queries you have about our services, or about scaffolding in general. To find out more, contact us on 01883 371 459.