Why is Scaffolding so Expensive?

When it comes to access for construction, scaffolding is usually the go to option.

You wouldn’t find it difficult to come across scaffolding on a walk around any city. However, despite it being the most popular form of access, when it comes to scaffolding the disadvantages usually outweigh the advantages. One of these disadvantages being the immense cost of scaffolding. But why is it so expensive?

Material costs

Erecting scaffolding not only costs you in the form of labour, but also in the materials required. To ensure safety and stability, its essential to use high quality, durable and sturdy materials. While it’s obvious why this is necessary, it does mean that the price of scaffolding becomes very steep very quickly.

Safety standards and regulations

Scaffolding must adhere to strict safety standards and regulations imposed by local authorities and industry organizations. To comply with these regulations, additional features are often necessary, like guardrails, safety nets, and access points. While safety is always a number one priority, there’s no denying that it adds to the overall cost required to erect scaffolding.

Liability and insurance

Due to the potential risks associated with scaffolding, companies that provide scaffolding services need to have liability insurance. The cost of insurance premiums are enormous! They are often factored into the pricing to cover any potential accidents or damages that may occur during the use of the scaffolding. While again, this is necessary and unavoidable, it does cause the cost of the project to skyrocket.

Transportation and setup

It’s easy to overlook the cost of transportation when it comes to scaffolding. However scaffolding systems are bulky and heavy making transportation no small task. The cost of transportation, as well as the labour required for setting up and dismantling the scaffolding, also adds on to the overall expense.

So, what’s the alternative?

Rope access offers a cost-effective alternative solution to access. By accessing the project from a height, you completely eliminate the need for expensive and bulky scaffolding. Rope access allows our IRATA trained professionals, to access and carry out the job, while keeping the overall costs to a minimum safely and efficiently. Rope access equipment also requires a fraction of the set up and dismantling time that scaffolding does. Really, there’s no downside. If you’d like to find out more about what rope access services we offer, or request a quote, get in touch. We’d be happy to discuss your needs and offer guidance on the best route forward.