Acrow props are a modern construction industry staple, widely available, and seen on all UK building and construction sites.
Many construction sites have Acrow props. They are used to transfer loads or support structures. Construction props are used to support concrete formwork while it cures or to support an overhead structure or roof while removing, replacing, or repairing a wall. They can be easily positioned and adjusted to any height.
Acrow Prop
Acrow props are vertical support products that can be used for scaffolding or direct support.
- You can create a hole in the wall to make a window, archway, or doorway.
- Removal of a wall
- Falsework supports reinforced concrete and beams
- Brace work for columns, stairs, and walls
- Temporary support to repair, replace, or install lintels, beams, canopies, wall ties, windows, doors, and other projects.
Acrow props provide the support product base and vertical strength that can be used to add additional support products. They are also compatible with other products making them flexible, cost-effective, and easy to set up and adjust as work progresses. Acrow props can be used with:
- Timber Needles are used to distributing the load weight so that it is supported in its middle. Acrow props can be used to support these heavy timber beams. They are usually about 200mm in diameter at each end.
- Strongboy Brackets provide additional support for up to 340kg each bracket.
- Forkheads allow timber beams to remain in place.
- Prop Bracing Couplers that can be used to create a fixed or a pivot angle for Acrow props to be secured to scaffold structures.
Acrow props are light and portable, making them easy to transport for one-person installation.
Safety of Acrow Props
Acrow props have a strong safety record and are compliant with safety standard BS4074. Safety is dependent on how they are used and installed correctly, just like with all tools. Acrow props should also be considered
Load Bearing:
Always consult a professional such as an architect or structural engineer before making calculations.
Also, calculations must account for changes in weight factors such as footfall above the support. This is especially important for construction sites, where multiple people and heavy tools might be on the floor above.
Use the right length prop for your project. Filling in any gaps with timber is dangerous and an unsafe way to use Acrow Pros.
All overhead loads must be supported before any items are removed from the wall space below. Only single openings should be made in any length of the wall at a time.
Installation and Siting:
Acrow props provide overhead support by supporting the ground below. Before setting up Acrow props, make sure that all points of contact are in good condition. Ground, ceiling, and wall masonry must all be in the following order:
- Stable and in good condition. If necessary, remedial work should first be done before Acrow Props can be installed.
- Fully level so that the load weight is evenly distributed.
- Also supported by sole boards to allow the base plate to rest upon.
- Verified to make sure the prop’s upper surface does not give way or collapse when it is weighed.
Props must be placed carefully to avoid them being moved or knocked over.
In progress:
Props should be checked frequently after they are installed. They can become particularly vulnerable when the wall is being opened up, making them susceptible to falling off. Props should be checked by project workers prior to starting work, and then again at the end of each work session. They also need to be thoroughly inspected by a qualified professional at least once a week.