When shrink wrapping scaffolding, the film needs to be fixed while heat is applied. Simply holding it by hand isn’t enough, let alone recommended, especially for covering large areas.
Different methods are used depending on where the shrinkwrap is fitted, how sections overlap, and how it’s being installed. Some are temporary, while others are part of the final installation. Keep reading.
Shrinkwrap Clips
Shrinkwrap clips, also referred to as scaffold clips, are one of the quickest ways to hold the film in position to steel tubes before welding. Products such as Tuff Clips use a rigid jaw that snaps around the tubing, and that’s it. You can start heat shrinking the material.
These clips are useful for:
Holding large sheets during positioning
Reducing movement in windy conditions
Supporting installations with fewer installers
Tip: Even spacing helps stop the sheet from shifting or pulling while you prepare for welding.
Timber Battens
Timber battens are best used where flat overlap sections (e.g., two sheets are laid one over the other, without gaps or raised edges) need extra support. The same applies when the overlap is long, exposed, or tricky to stabilise with clips alone during welding or finishing.
The shrinkwrap film is sandwiched between timber strips and fixed to the scaffold, holding the material. This spreads the pressure across the material instead of putting it all on one fixing point.
Welding the Bottom Flap
The lower section of shrink wrap is welded to stop lifting and movement in the wind. Instead of leaving it loose, it’s folded and welded to create a sealed edge. This is common in containment areas, where gaps need to be shut off.
Note: There isn’t a single fixed way to weld the bottom flap. Scaffolding setups vary, so the welding method must match the frame layout, access, and wind exposure.
Heat Shrinking
With the material already positioned and supported using the methods above, heat is applied to shrink and weld the sheets. A tool like this Shrinkgun with Regulator and Hose is used for this process, creating a continuous sealed layer. This helps achieve the drum-tight finish shrinkwrap is known for.
Correct heat application is crucial. Too little heat can create weak joins, while excessive heat can damage the material. Read our ‘Shrink Wrap Sheeting Guide: Welding and Heat Application’ to learn more.
Patch Tape (Where Needed)
This Scafrwrap Patch Tape lets you patch small gaps in shrinkwrap, which can save you from redoing or replacing the full cover. Flash heat completes the seal, allowing the film to be tensioned and shrink without tearing.
How to repair punctures and pinholes:
Wipe the surface to remove dirt or moisture.
Cut and apply patch tape, extending at least 50 mm beyond the hole on all sides, with a cutter or utility knife.
Flash heat the tape for two to three seconds using a shrink gun.
If the hole hasn’t stretched and the surrounding wrap is still tight, the patch alone is enough. Larger holes need a different approach. Refer to our ‘How to Repair Shrink Wrap Holes’ for step-by-step instructions.
You can use a mix of methods, depending on the scaffold conditions. And it’s a lot easier when you’ve got the right equipment on hand. We supply shrinkwrap and accessories, including Scafwrap FR Shrink Wrap, heatproof leather gloves, Scafwrap cutter, and shrink torch for demanding shrink wrapping applications.
We also offer a Basic Shrinkwrap Course as an introduction for those planning to take hands-on training and certification.
For enquiries and fast quotes, email our team at customercare@s-pgroup.com or call 028 9411 0032. SP Group is a temporary protection and scaffold supplier based in the UK and Ireland.