There are multiple types of props, each with its own advantages and limitations. Choosing the right one depends on what you’re supporting, the load involved, and your site conditions. Whether you’re holding up a slab, stabilising a wall, or working on a renovation, the right prop ensures safety, efficiency, and smooth workflow on-site.
But with so many options, from steel and aluminium props to Titan, Acrow, and multi props, it’s not always clear which one fits best. This guide breaks it down simply, helping you make confident, practical decisions for your next construction project.
Factors to consider when choosing a construction prop
Following are the factors to refer to when selecting construction props.
Type of structure
The most important factor for choosing the right construction prop is the structure you want to support. If you’re working on slab or beam formwork, steel props are usually the safest option due to their high load capacity. For wall or column support, lighter adjustable or telescopic props often do the job efficiently. You might need a custom propping system with a combination of different prop types, as one of our clients needed for their hospital project.
The following table will help you identify common prop types and where they’re most effectively used.
| Prop Type | Application |
| Acrow props | Slab formwork, beam casting, renovations, and temporary shoring |
| Multi props | Residential ceilings, light slab work, formwork towers |
| Titan props | Commercial slabs, bridge decks, multi-storey or infrastructure projects |
| Telescopic props | Wall supports, multi-level sites, ceiling propping |
| Tilt / push-pull props | Tilt-up construction, precast panels, facade alignment |
| Custom / engineered propping systems | Irregular builds, site-specific configurations, uneven layouts |
Load capacity
Evaluate the load you need to support. While calculating, take into account the extra weight of the machinery, workers and tools, if any.
Now run through your prop options and short-list the props that match your required load capacity. Each prop type comes in various sizes and load capacities, but some are designed for lighter applications and shouldn’t be used to support heavy loads.
Height and adjustment range
Measure the distance between the base and the supporting structure. Most props have adjustable height, so ensure your required height is in the adjustable range of your short-listed prop. Avoid working with the prop’s maximum height. Keep a few centimetres of margin so you can adjust the height in case of loose ground or uneven concrete.
Material
Next comes the material; props are either made of steel or aluminium. Steel props are more common and less expensive than aluminium props. They also have higher load capacity than aluminium props, making them the right fit for heavy-duty propping applications. However, aluminium is ideal when you need to be efficient with labour, as they are easy to transport and handle.
We have a detailed guide on steel props vs aluminium props. You can check it out to explore more about the similarities and differences between the two materials.
Site conditions
Uneven ground, moisture, or confined spaces can quickly affect how props perform. If your project is in a damp or coastal area, opt for galvanised or corrosion-resistant steel props that will not rust over time. For indoor refurbishments or tight areas, lighter aluminium props are easier to maneuver without heavy equipment. And if the base isn’t level or stable, always use base plates or sole boards to spread the load evenly and prevent sinking.
Compliance and certification
Finally, never compromise on safety. Always ensure your props comply with Australian Standards (AS 3610 and AS 1576) and have been inspected before use.
Ensuring compliance and maintaining certifications can be a hassle for contractors; that’s why at Legend Hire, we take care of the entire certification and compliance process to ensure their project runs smoothly without any delays.
Legend Hire’s propping services and props for hire
Still unsure which prop your project needs? You don’t have to figure it out alone. Our experts can guide you on selecting, designing, and installing the right propping system tailored to your site conditions and load requirements.
Our propping engineering and installation services cover everything from load assessments and designing the propping systems to complete certifications and on-site setup across Australia. We also have a wide range of props and propping accessories for hire that are certified and compliant with Australian Standards.
Explore our recent propping projects or contact us for your propping needs.
