Props & Trestles

Choosing the Right Support Equipment for the Job

Acrow props and builders trestles perform different roles on site, so the correct choice depends on whether the job involves temporary structural support, material support or access at height. Acrow props are used within planned temporary works, while builders trestles support suitable boards to form low-level platforms or workbenches. Before ordering, confirm the working height, expected load, ground conditions and whether the equipment is suitable for the planned task.

Acrow Props for Temporary Structural Support

Building props are telescopic steel supports used temporarily beneath walls, floors, beams and other construction elements during alterations, repairs or installation work. For projects requiring a shorter adjustable support, the acrow prop size 1 can suit compatible temporary works within its stated height and load range. Always confirm the required prop size, spacing and arrangement against the temporary-works design before installation.

Typical uses include:

• Wall alterations – Temporary support while openings, lintels or structural elements are being installed.
• Floor support – Holding suitable beams or formwork within an engineered temporary arrangement.
• Repair work – Supporting affected areas while damaged components are replaced or strengthened.
• Concrete work – Supporting compatible formwork until the concrete has achieved the required strength.
• Refurbishments – Providing temporary support during controlled changes to an existing structure.

Support props are temporary equipment rather than permanent structural columns. Temporary works must be designed, installed and maintained to withstand foreseeable loads, with manufacturers’ instructions followed when selecting and using temporary supports. More complex propping arrangements may require calculations and competent professional input.

Builder’s Trestles for Working Platforms and Material Support

Adjustable trestles provide a practical base for suitable working platforms during decorating, plastering, brickwork and general maintenance at low levels. size 2 trestles offer an adjustable working height for compatible platform arrangements, but the supporting surface, trestle spacing and total platform load must remain within the product limits.

When setting up scaffolding trestles, check:

• Platform width – Provide enough space for the user, tools and safe movement.
• Board support – Position trestles so the boards are adequately supported without excessive overhang.
• Surface condition – Place the legs on firm, level ground that can carry the intended load.
• Working height – Use the lowest practical setting and lock adjustable components securely.
• Total load – Include workers, tools and materials when assessing the platform load.
• Access method – Provide a safe way to step onto and leave the platform.

Only use suitable scaffold boards or platform components intended for the equipment. Improvised boards, damaged trestles or unstable packing can create avoidable movement and fall risks.

Choosing the Correct Prop Size and Extension Range

An adjustable prop must cover the required height without being forced beyond its stated working range. Measure the clear distance between the supporting surfaces, then select a prop that reaches this height while retaining sufficient adjustment for accurate positioning.

Before choosing acrow props, consider:

• Closed height – The shortest usable length of the prop.
• Maximum extension – The highest position permitted by the product specification.
• Load capacity – The allowable load can vary according to prop size and extension.
• Bearing points – The top and bottom surfaces must be capable of accepting the concentrated load.
• Prop position – Props should be positioned as required by the temporary-works design rather than placed by estimation.
• Accessories – Strongboys, needles or heads must be compatible and used only for their intended purpose.

Never assume that a larger prop automatically provides greater capacity at every extension. The required number, spacing and arrangement of props should come from the project design, particularly when supporting structural walls, floors or beams.

Safe Setup: Load Position, Ground Conditions and Stability

Both props and trestles depend on stable supporting surfaces. Before use, inspect the equipment for bent tubes, damaged threads, missing pins, cracked welds, distorted feet or other defects that could affect safe operation.

For temporary propping, the load should pass through suitable bearing surfaces and remain correctly aligned with the prop. Soft ground, damaged floors, voids, drains or weak masonry may require properly designed spreaders or additional measures rather than improvised timber packing.

For working platforms, assess the risk of falling and choose equipment appropriate to the height and duration of the job. HSE guidance requires work at height to be planned and organised safely, with suitable precautions taken to prevent falls.

Props, Trestles vs Ladders and Work Platforms: Which Should You Use?

Choose equipment according to the task, required access and intended load.

• Props – Used for temporary structural support during planned alterations, repairs and construction work.
• Trestles – Used to support suitable boards or materials during controlled low-level work.
• Ladders – Best suited to short-duration access tasks where the user can maintain a secure position.
• Work platforms – Provide a standing area for compatible decorating, maintenance and installation tasks.

Props must never be used as access equipment, while trestles should not be treated as structural supports. For suitable ladders and purpose-made platforms, explore our range of ladders & work platforms range.