As a construction company, you’ve probably often asked yourself whether it’s better to rent scaffolding for each project or to purchase your own.
Having your own scaffolding can sound very appealing, especially if you have a regular stream of projects.
Like most things, though, the decision isn’t as clear as it seems on the surface. You need to do a careful assessment of project specifics and budget considerations so that you can make an informed decision. Your specific business needs and strategy will determine whether you should rent scaffolding or buy.
Here’s an overview to help you decide the best option for your business.
Benefits of Renting Scaffolding
You’ll get several benefits if you rent scaffolding. However, it’s important to understand that these depend on your business situation.
For instance, if you work on ad-hoc projects renting can be very cost-effective. Alternatively, a frequent need for scaffolding can make purchasing seem more appealing.
We’ll discuss these considerations below, but first, the benefits:
1. Cost-efficiency
If you don’t need scaffolding for every construction project you undertake, you’ll likely find it more cost-effective to rent scaffolding.
2. Safety
By choosing to rent scaffolding from a professional and experienced supplier like ALTA Scaffolding, you’re assured that the structure meets regulatory and other safety standards.
Your scaffolding will also be regularly and thoroughly inspected. Your team can work with peace of mind, knowing that everything required to prevent falls and other accidents is in place and that they’re not exposed to unnecessary risks.
3. Resource saving
If you buy your own scaffolding, you’ll also have to hire certified experts to erect, maintain and inspect it. Whereas, if you rent scaffolding, your supplier will provide all these resources.
4. Flexibility
If you work on a variety of projects that require different types of scaffolding constructions, renting will provide exactly the right scaffold you need for the specific job requirements. This gives you all the flexibility you need to take on many different types of construction work, from single-storey residences to multi-storey projects.
5. Adaptability
Project requirements can change as work progresses. This may require changes to the scaffolding setup, or the erection of additional modules. When you hire scaffolding, your supplier can quickly make the right adaptions to keep things running on time.
6. Latest high-quality equipment
When you rent scaffolding, you’ll always get the benefit of the latest materials and erection techniques. If you buy your own, you’ll have to keep up to date with these and replace outdated equipment yourself. Rental gives you access to modern developments without large upfront investments.
7. No maintenance
Renting scaffolding means that you won’t have to constantly maintain it. Your supplier is responsible for that.
8. No storage required
Buying scaffolding requires you to store it on your own premises. To do so, you may have to rent extra business space or you might not have additional facilities available.
9. Informed expertise
It’s a simple equation. If you buy your own scaffolding, your company will need to be skilled at scaffold design, erection and safety. When you rent scaffolding from an experienced supplier like ALTA Scaffolding, you’ll have instant access to all this expertise.
Considerations When You Rent Scaffolding
Before you rent, take into account the following:
Project length
The length of the project can impact your decision on whether to rent or buy scaffolding.
Project scope
The size of the project determines how much scaffolding you need. If a once-off project calls for a significant amount, you’re better off renting.
Project budget
You’re always working within budget constraints, so the project budget might have the final say on whether to rent or buy. Renting is more likely to fit within a budget, compared to the high upfront costs of buying scaffolding. To help with this decision, we’ve prepared some average insights on how much does it cost to scaffold a house.
Conclusion
If you don’t take on long-term projects, renting is the better option.
You should carefully weigh up the considerations we’ve explained above. Assess your project needs, all the budget factors and your long-term goals to help you make the best decision for your company.
Don’t be shy to contact us for advice. We have decades of experience and certified expertise in all aspects of scaffolding, and we can provide cost-effective, purpose-designed scaffolding installation to suit your construction needs.
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