The pandemic in 2019 forced most of the global population to stay at home for at least a year. But while it wasn’t a great time, let’s admit it, the restrictions and lockdowns brought some positives as well — families got to spend more time together at home and convenient online shops flourished.
Some had the chance to revisit old hobbies, too. And because of more time spent inside the house, more homeowners also felt the need to renovate their homes. As a result, the remodeling market in the US skyrocketed to USD$567 billion in 2022.
Of course, home renovation is always an exciting endeavor. However, whether you’re renovating your house yourself or hiring professionals, the job poses a safety risk, especially since it often involves working at heights. In fact, home-renovation-related injuries accounted for three percent of the entirety of emergency room visits in 2020.
So, if you’re planning to start on a home renovation, it’s a must to look at the safety considerations first, which begins with the access methods you’ll employ. But with the options available, it can be difficult to choose a method that’s not only safe but also efficient for everyone involved in the project.
Continue reading for some practical tips that can help you make the right decision.
Table of Contents
Types of access methods
Should you pick ladders over scaffoldings? We’ll talk more about that later. Feel free to check additional resources that compare the two as well.
But before we delve into the factors to consider when selecting an access method for your next home renovation project, let’s first take a closer look at the different types available to better understand how they work. Here they are:
Ladders
When thinking about access methods for home renovation, a ladder is surely the first thing that comes to mind. But did you know that there are actually different types of ladders? The ladder you’ve used before could be a step ladder, extension ladder, or maybe a platform ladder.
The first type, the step ladder, is perfect for projects that involve shorter heights. On the other hand, if you’re repairing your roof or cleaning the roofing’s gutter, it’s best to use extension ladders instead since their length can be extended.
But if you want something that provides a more stable surface because you expect to handle heavy materials and work for extended periods, definitely go for platform ladders.
Scaffolding
By default, scaffolding is ideal for larger renovation projects. It makes sense, considering that they offer an extensive and stable platform. Scaffoldings, however, require extra precautions to ensure safety. A stable and leveled surface, base support, and proper footing are only some of the safety measures to consider when using this equipment.
Platforms and staging
One should go for platforms and staging when a larger, stable work area is needed. Their different types include adjustable, rolling, and modular platforms and staging systems.
Lifts and aerial equipment
The last on the list (but certainly not the least) are lifts and aerial equipment. If your project involves working in high, difficult-to-reach areas, this could be the solution you need.
Lifts and aerial equipment, however, are complex to operate, so you need to undergo proper training and secure certification first. Keep that in mind, too, if you’re hiring an operator.
Knowing and understanding the different types of access methods available is only the first step. There are also factors that you need to consider to ensure that your choice meets your project’s needs.
Selecting an access method: factors to consider
Here are the key considerations for homeowners looking for a home renovation access method that’s safe and can do the job:
Project-specific requirements
It’s a big mistake to think that there’s a one-size-fits-all access method for all home renovations. The truth is every project is unique, so to choose the right option, always consider the nature of the work as well as the height involved, and the reach required. For instance, the most sensible choice is a lift or a scaffolding if the renovation job requires working at varying heights and moving to different areas frequently.
Accessibility of the work area
Site inspections are a crucial part of any building project. They ensure the project’s feasibility, right? Can it apply to home renovation? Certainly.
Assessment of the work area’s accessibility is crucial to determining the most feasible access method for the job. Is the work area an outdoor or indoor space? How about the ground, is it leveled or uneven?
Budget considerations
Any home renovation project requires careful planning, and it involves budget setting. Surely, you’d want to stick to your budget as much as possible until work completion.
Therefore, choose an access method that you can afford. Remember: the different options vary in costs depending on whether you’ll purchase or rent equipment and their installation process. Don’t forget about the maintenance requirement, too.
Time-saving benefits
Access methods vary not only in terms of cost but also time-saving benefits. So, if you want to complete the job fast, you’d be better off with something that’s easy to set up and reposition. Look for an access method that’ll provide you with easier and quicker access to distant or high areas.
Expertise and skill level needed
No matter how suitable, affordable, and quick an access method is, if you don’t know how to use it properly or can’t find anyone who does, it won’t be of much help. Thus, consider the expertise and skill level required by your chosen solution. It’s especially true for more advanced equipment, like a lift or aerial platform.
When selecting an access method, consider finding the right balance between the factors discussed above.
Conclusion
Renovating a house is an exciting endeavor. And if you want that excitement to last until the completion of the project, you need the right access method to ensure safety and success. The key is to tailor your choice to your specific needs based on the factors listed and discussed in this post.
