Scaffolding Access and Duration: What to Expect on Your Building Project
Scaffold goes up before the bricklayer starts and comes down after the roofer finishes. Here is what that means for your driveway, your garden, and your timeline.
Scaffolding is a fact of life on any building project that involves work above about 1.5 metres. For a two-storey extension in Gravesend or a full repointing job on a three-storey Victorian terrace in Rochester, scaffolding is the single largest piece of temporary equipment on site.
When Is It Erected?
Scaffold is typically erected the week before brickwork starts on a new extension. For repointing projects, it goes up the day before work begins. The scaffolding company needs access for a lorry with a HIAB crane arm; check that your driveway or road access can handle a 7.5-tonne vehicle.
How Long Does It Stay?
On a single-storey extension: 3 to 6 weeks (covering brickwork and roofing). On a two-storey extension: 6 to 12 weeks. On a full house repoint: 2 to 4 weeks per elevation. Scaffold hire is typically charged weekly, usually 150 to 250 per week for a domestic project, plus the initial erect and dismantle charge (usually 400 to 800).
Neighbour Considerations
If the scaffold needs to overhang a neighbour is boundary (a common requirement on terraced and semi-detached properties), you technically need their permission. Most neighbours are cooperative if approached politely in advance. If scaffolding extends over a public highway or footpath, a licence from the local highway authority is required.
For the full extension build process, see our build stages guide. View our extension services or call 07887 895382.