Understanding Timber, Plastic, and Steel Options

As professionals in the construction industry, we all know that choosing the right materials can make or break a project. Which is why Altrad Generation offers a comprehensive range of Scaffold Boards to meet every project requirement. Available for hire and sale, our selection includes timber, plastic, and galvanised steel. Each option brings its own unique set of features that can affect performance across different applications. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each material, you can make sure you’ve got the right boards to keep your team safe and your projects on track.

Timber Scaffold Boards

Altrad Generation’s timber scaffold boards are available in the industry standard 1.2m support and 1.5m support, ensuring support for a wide range of different projects and applications. Timber boards conform to BS 2482:2009, TG20:21 compliant, and are responsibly sourced through sustainable PEFC registered companies. Manufactured from European Whitewood, wooden scaffold boards have been a trusted choice for decades. They offer:

• Natural strength and flexibility

• Biodegradability

• A familiar feel and handling for workers

• The ability to be treated for increased durability

Plastic Scaffold Boards

Plastic scaffold boards, also known as Supadeck scaffold boards or Composite scaffold Boards, haven’t been around for as long as timber boards but they will certainly outlast them! Available in sizes from 1.5m to 3.9m, Altrad Generation’s Supadeck boards are manufactured from glass fibre reinforced polypropylene and UV stabilised TPR rubber. They conform to BS EN 12811 and provide several unique benefits:

• Lightweight yet strong

• Resistant to oil, solvents, acids, saltwater, moisture, rot, and insects

• Non-conductive (important for electrical work)

• Consistent in quality and performance

• Resistant to warping or shape changes

• Easy to clean and maintain

Steel Scaffold Boards

For heavy duty applications, Altrad Generation offers galvanised steel scaffold boards supplied with a zinc coating to protect against rust. Available in sizes from 0.9m and 4m and conforming to BS EN 12811, steel boards are most commonly used in System Scaffolds.  They are known for their:

• Superior strength and load-bearing capacity

• Excellent durability and longevity

• Fire resistance

• Resistance to harsh environmental conditions

Let's talk safety, because making sure everyone goes home in one piece is what really matters. Each material has its own safety profile, and it's crucial to understand these differences to make informed decisions.

Timber scaffold boards have a long history of use and are familiar to most workers, which can contribute to safer handling. They provide good grip naturally and absorb sound, potentially reducing noise-related hazards. However, timber boards require frequent inspection for signs of rot, splitting, or warping that could compromise safety. They can also become slippery when wet and may lose strength if repeatedly exposed to moisture.

Plastic scaffold boards offer several safety advantages. They are resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage, which helps maintain their structural integrity over time. Their lightweight nature reduces the risk of strain injuries during handling. Additionally, plastic boards feature anti-slip surfaces, enhancing worker safety in wet conditions.

Steel scaffold boards offer superior strength and durability, making them highly resistant to damage and deformation under heavy loads. They are fire-resistant, which is a significant safety advantage in certain environments. However, their heavy weight can pose handling risks, potentially leading to strain injuries if not managed properly. In wet conditions, steel boards may become extremely slippery unless treated with anti-slip coatings. Additionally, if the galvanisation is compromised, there's a risk of corrosion that could affect structural integrity over time.