For a shrink wrap to be effective as temporary weather protection or containment of scaffolding, two things need to be considered: 1.) qualified and trained operatives to install the wrap sheets on scaffold tubes or over openings, and 2.) the use of quality and proper materials and equipment.
This guide lists the must-have items for successful shrink wrapping.
1. Scaffold Shrink Wrap
You can’t have a taut covering without this one! Shrink wrap is a heavy-duty film installed on scaffolding. It’s usually white, does not flap in the wind, and has no small holes in the sheets. When in place, it provides containment and protection from falling rubble, as well as against the unpredictable UK weather that may delay construction projects.
Material and thickness
You wouldn’t want to just pick up any old shrink wrap off the shelf, though. Polyethylene (ideally the HDPE variant) and polypropylene are your best bet when it comes to the material, due to their robust and tear-resistant qualities. Opt for 200 - 300 microns for the film thickness for better handling of weather, elements, and debris.
FR variants
It’s also common for construction sites to insist on flame-retardant materials for scaffold wrap. To meet this requirement, look for one with FR additives. An example is our Scafwrap FR Shrink Wrap. The material contains UV and fire-resistant agents that extinguish fire within seconds. It also conforms to EN 13501-1:2007 + A1:2010 standards and has Warrington Certifire certification. This guarantees reliable and improved fire protection around your scaffolding and work area.
Tip: Each roll can cover between 100 and 300 square metres, depending on the product and manufacturer. We recommend calculating how many rolls of shrink wrap you’ll need for your project, so you don’t run short. It’s a good idea to have a bit extra on hand—you never know when you might need it!
2. Shrink Wrap Heat Gun
Shrink wrap is applied to scaffolding using a heat gun tool like this shrink gun with regulator and hose. This equipment welds the sheets and creates a ‘continuously bonded skin’ over even the largest or most awkwardly shaped scaffolds. They become drum-tight, which prevents any flapping in high winds and makes it virtually impossible to break through.
To use the shrink wrap heat gun for welding, trained operatives usually start from the bottom and work their way up in one continuous motion.
Torches are a great alternative, too, such as this Shrink Torch with Regulator and Hose. It’s suitable for covering larger areas, but it must be handled with care to avoid the risk of overheating. A shrink torch is best for more experienced operatives, whereas a heat gun is better suited for easier and safer applications.
3. Shrink Wrap Clips
Shrink wrap clips, or scaffold clips, are used to hold the films in position before they are heat welded together. These scaffold fixings can be removed as soon as the shrink wrap sheet is welded into position. They usually come in a box of 100.
Be careful in removing the shrink wrap clips afterwards, as they can be reused as long as they’re functional. This way, one box should last a long time!
SP Group offers shrink-wrapping courses, whether you’re an individual wanting to upskill or a company looking to train your employees. If you’re a scaffold reseller, you’ll want these materials and equipment readily available to meet your customers’ needs. SP Group, a scaffold supplier based in the UK and Ireland, can help you achieve this.
If you have more questions about the basics of shrink wrap or other Safegard scaffold protection, including FR debris netting and monarflex alternative scaffold sheeting, contact us at +44 (028) 9442 8611.