Acrow props are imperative technology for construction sites across Australia. They provide powerful support for vertical loads whilst protecting construction workers. But it’s no use buying or hiring a set if you don’t know how to install them. They will only be rendered ineffective and, consequently, dangerous!
With this in mind, here are the five simple steps to ensuring you correctly install your Acrow props:
Step 1: Speak to the pros
Before enlisting the best prop hire Brisbane has it is important to consider the following:
- How much weight support does your project need?
- Can the floor support the weight?
- Do you need timber needles or strong boys?
- How many props, needles and strong boys do you need to safely support the project?
You should always consult your expert provider for assistance regarding these considerations. They are trained professionals who can consult with you and ensure you have the right amount for your project. What’s more, the experts will help ensure that your beams, masonry and roofing are safely supported for the construction phase.
Step 2: Choose designs with the right capacity & height
This imperative shoring technology has always come in six standard sizes. Each size is fully capable of supporting various weight capacities found on a construction site. Your choice’s weight capacity must exceed the weight they are intended to support. You should always pick up additional units just in case one fails (though this is unlikely!).
Step 3: Prepare your load-bearing surfaces
You might have to put in a little extra work to prepare a load-bearing surface. This is because there is a larger risk of collapse and injury when the floor joists and the timber cannot handle the unit’s load. Therefore, any load-bearing surface must be completely even, flat and with the ability to handle heavy loads. There is also the risk of damaging the floor’s integrity even if the structure doesn’t collapse.
Timber floors are always susceptible to damage and this is true even when they can easily support shoring unit weights. It is always important to conduct regular safety checks on timber floors but concrete floors should have no trouble handling their load.
Step 4: Install the unit
To erect the prop, start by raising the inner tube and insert the pin to select the correct height. Next, use the adjustable collar’s handle to place the unit at the perfect height. Start rotating it to tighten (you can use a wrench to better rotate it if you need).
Ensure that the unit is plumb and will not jolt or move. A unit’s load-bearing capacity is negatively affected when its angle surpasses 1.5 degrees. Allow the above load to rest on top with the unit supporting a joist or structural beam. Check the units at the start and end of each day to ensure that they are still safely installed.
Step 5: Install supportive hardware
This step is only required when supporting brickwork and masonry as they require these additives as they require horizontal support as well as vertical. Slot the strong boys in at the top of the unit and extend outwards into a removed brick section. You can use multiple strong boys to support the brick wall.
For timber needles, you can slot them into where the brickwork was situated. They work as a platform to provide even weight distribution between two units supporting the needles. Needles are perfect for heavy loads and long-term construction projects!
