Every contractor knows the risks of working with unstable structures. One wrong move and the whole job site is at stake. That’s where we install props, or specifically, acrow props.
In this guide, we’ll break down what acrow props are, where to use them, and how to install them safely. You’ll also learn their key features, benefits, and the safety checks that you should never overlook when working with acrow props.
What are acrow props?
Builders commonly use Acrow props for temporary vertical load-bearing applications. Manufacturers make them from galvanised steel, and their height-adjustable design makes them highly versatile.
Acrow props consist of an inner tube threaded into an outer tube. The inner tube has a top plate, and the outer tube has a base plate, allowing flat and stable surfaces at both ends to support the load. The inner tube makes the acrow props height-adjustable. The props come with a pin and a collar handle for positioning and securing the inner tube at the desired height.
Applications/where acrow props are used
Builders use Acrow props wherever they need temporary vertical support. Here are a few common instances where they rely on them.
Supporting walls and ceilings during renovations
Breaking a wall to create a new opening for doors and windows risks the stability of the load-bearing wall and the structure it supports. Builders install Acrow props to share the load and keep the structure intact until they complete the modifications.
Formwork support
Acrow props are used to support slabs, floors and roofs when fresh concrete is poured. The props support the structure until the concrete sets and can carry its own weight.
Check out: What is back propping and its role in construction
Holding beams and lintels
Just like slabs and roofs, builders must support beams and lintels until they set or until they install the necessary supporting structures. Acrow props fill the gap and offer temporary support until they are secure on their own.
Demolitions and alterations
During demolition or major building changes, crews keep specific structures in place while removing the rest. Acrow props stabilise these partial structures, preventing any accidental collapse.
Features and benefits of using acrow props
Lightweight
Acrow props are lightweight compared to other propping options like Titan props. One person can lift a single prop. The lightweight nature of acrow props makes them easy to transport and relocate on site.
Easy installation
Acrow props are easy to install and remove. One person can install the props without additional tools.
Height-adjustable
Acrow props are designed to fit a wide range of heights, making them suitable for different site conditions.
Versatile
As we discussed in the applications, builders can use Acrow props in multiple situations that require temporary vertical support.
Cost-effective and reusable
Acrow props are an affordable option for propping renovations and construction projects. You can buy or rent them and reuse them in multiple projects as they are durable and long-lasting.
How to install Acrow props?
Here’s a simple step-by-step process on how to use Acrow props.
Step 1: Safety
Get your hands and head protected with strong gloves and a helmet. Ensure the working area is free from any hazards and obstacles. Extra workers or passers-by should be at a safe distance from the working area.
Step 2: Approximate height adjustment
Position the Acrow prop where it needs to be installed. Extend the inner tube and adjust it to the approximate desired height. Secure the inner tube with the pin to prevent it from dropping.
Step 3: Precise adjustment
Now rotate the collar handle to finely adjust the height of the prop as desired. Ensure the prop securely touches the top and is firmly fixed in its place.
And that’s it, your acrow prop is installed in three simple steps.
Safety considerations for Acrow props
Acow props are lightweight and easy to install; however, improper handling or technique can pose a risk. Here are key points to check for safe installation of acrow props:
Choose the right load capacity
Every acrow prop has a load capacity. Ensure you measure the weight of the structure to support and factor in the additional weight of workers or machinery (if any). Your acrow prop’s load capacity should be slightly more than the maximum load you need to support.
Never exceed the load capacity of the prop. Overloading can cause the prop to bend, slip, or collapse, putting both the structure and workers at serious risk.
Inspect the props
Make sure each acrow prop is free from cracks, rust, or bent parts. Never use a damaged prop as its load-bearing capacity may be compromised and can lead to accidents.
Prepare a stable base
We need to ensure our base is stable enough to carry the weight of the props. Avoid placing props on uneven or weak ground without proper base plates.
If your base is concrete, you’re ready to install the props. However, if you’re working with a timber base, let a structural engineer or a qualified person inspect the ground. Timber base poses a risk of collapse, hence proper checks are necessary.
Rugarly check the props
The props can loosen and may need adjustment over time. A quick daily check is enough to ensure the props are stable and standing firm.
Support masonry with Strongboys or Needle beams
Besides vertical support, masonry requires horizontal stability. Use Strongboys or timber needles along with Acrow props when working with masonry.
Strongboys fix onto the top of acrow props and slot into brickwork openings, helping spread the load safely across several props. Needle beams work on the same principle, creating a platform that spreads weight evenly between props.
Save yourself the hassle of installation with Legend Hire
Instead of inspecting your site on your own and figuring out how many props you need and of what capacity, you can count on Legend Hire for efficiency, safety and quick service. We offer engineering and installation services, where our team of experts will handle your complete propping requirements. They will inspect the site, guide you on the right propping and safely install it for you. See how Legend Hire provided a complete propping package for a construction project.
Check out our recent propping projects or our range of propping equipment for hire across Australia, including Melbourne, Sunshine Coast, Sydney, and Brisbane.
