DIY Movable Scaffold

[dnwong]

Starting to work on my garage while the contractor continues work on the outside. Since I have 12' high walls, I find it challenging to work up high. Choices are:

1. Work on a tall ladder - constantly going up and down and moving the ladder.
2. Buy a portable scaffolding unit - most are 2x5' and when I need to raise the platform to 6' high, i feel unstable knowing that it seem easy to topple over without the optional safety rails and side riggers.
3. Rent a scaffolding system - not sure how long I need it and the cost would quickly add up.

So, I ended up using the scrap wood left by the contractor to build a platform. 6' high and using a 4x8 sheet of plywood as a platform. This give me plenty of workspace to walk around so I do not have to constantly climb up and down.

As I build the platform (adding reinforcements to make sturdy), the unit got heavier and heavier and became very difficult to move around.

I needed to put wheels on the platform when I need to move it around but want the stability of the structure sitting directly on the ground when in use.

So, I came out with a set of wheels attached by a 2x6 that can swing into place when I need to move the platform around.

I use a harbor freight floor jack to lift the platform high enough so the wheels on the hinged board can swing under. When done moving, I lift the platform with the floor jack again and swing the wheels out of the way.

The unit is very stable and I can work on top for long periods of time.

[Trak Ratt]

Very nice looking rig. Swinging casters is a good one too. Was thinking about that for several thinks in my shop. Those that need a steady base but might need to be mover now and then too.

I stick built a 24' x 24' garage for my mom's with my son and a friend 6 years earlier than my own. I have to admit that when I did my own I was perfectly willing to have the contractor crew do EVERYTHING!

[cmartin]

the things we think of when we have to, nice work

I spent a lot of time on a 2x12 between 2 ladders. Not my favorite spot but I got used to it. Also started wearing a tool belt, way too many trips down the ladder for the tool on the floor.

[dnwong]

Very nice looking rig. Swinging casters is a good one too. Was thinking about that for several thinks in my shop. Those that need a steady base but might need to be mover now and then too.

I stick built a 24' x 24' garage for my mom's with my son and a friend 6 years earlier than my own. I have to admit that when I did my own I was perfectly willing to have the contractor crew do EVERYTHING!
I originally had the contractor do the insides too. But his cost for electrical, insulation and drywall was way too high. And I wanted some electrical changes anyways due to an unforeseen attic addition. So I took all those back.

[Vicegrip]

I too had a contractor* do the foundation and dry in. Had the "garage" complete with 2 lights, one light switch 4 wall one ceiling outlets and an unusually large sub panel inspected and final approval and once the inexpensive standard white county car went up the street went to town. Electric, compressed air, phone and data, sound, insulation and drywall more or less in that order.

*Same guy that did TR's garage and a hella good builder.