One of the most essential aspects of a construction project are planks and stages. They are durable, lightweight, and often have extension capabilities, to make construction more effective while on the job.
Planks and stages are commonly used for flooring, scaffolding, and other structures in construction. There are different types of planks that are a go-to for a number of construction workers, such as wood and aluminum planks. Each of these planks and/or stages will indicate their own weight capacity so that you know how much weight the plank can support. Additionally, planks and stages must meet the compliance regulations set by ANSI and OSHA. Shop Badger Ladder’s inventory of aluminum planks and stages here.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of planks and stages available for construction, to help you make an informed decision of the type of plank or stage you’ll need for your building project.
1. Aluminum Planks/Stages
Aluminum planks are also widely used in construction, especially for scaffolding and other temporary structures. They are lightweight, durable, and easy to install, making them popular among construction professionals. Aluminum planks come in various sizes and lengths and are resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor use.
At Badger Ladder, our aluminum planks have extension capabilities. For example, our 14″ wide aluminum extension plank is available in three lengths (6′, 8′ and 10′), however, it has the capability of being able to extend to 9′, 13′ and 17′, for ease of use. While many planks are meant for use for just one worker, some of our aluminum stages also can support up to 2 people and up to 500 lbs. of weight.
Badger Ladder currently offers aluminum planks and stages in the following widths:
- 12″, 1 Man, 250 lb. Capacity Plank
- 12″, 2 Man, 500 lb. Capacity Plank
- 14″ Wide Extension Plank
- 14″, 2 Man, 500 lb. Capacity Plank
- 20″, 2 Man, 500 lb. Capacity Plank
- 24″, 2 Man, 500 lb. Capacity Plank
Not sure of which aluminum plank to choose? Take a look at our article about choosing the right aluminum scaffold plank.
2. Solid Wood Planks
Solid wood planks are the most common type of planks used in construction. They are made of solid wood and come in various sizes, shapes, and thicknesses. Solid wood planks are used for flooring, roofing, walls, and other structures in construction. They are durable, sturdy, and offer good insulation properties, making them ideal for a wide variety of construction projects. Some wood planks are also designed using plywood.
As with any other type of plank used in construction, you should invest in high quality wood planks that meet expectations set by OSHA.
3. Scaffold Planks
Scaffold wood planks are used for constructing scaffolds and other temporary structures in construction. They are usually made of solid wood, laminated wood, or aluminum and come in various sizes and lengths. Scaffold wood planks are designed to support heavy loads and provide a safe working surface for workers.
At Badger Ladder, our scaffold planks include our all-aluminum scaffold plank, and our plywood top aluminum scaffold plank, each 19″ wide.
4. Formwork Wood Planks
Another type of plank you’ll likely find on the market are formwork wood planks. When browsing formwork wood planks, you’ll want to make sure that they are fully tested and comply with OSHA standards.
Formwork wood planks are used for creating temporary molds or formwork for concrete structures. They are usually made of plywood or other types of engineered wood and come in various thicknesses and sizes. Formwork wood planks are designed to withstand the pressure and weight of concrete and provide a smooth and even surface for the concrete to be poured on.
Why You Should Invest in Planks & Stages for Your Next Project
Planks are an essential part of construction, and there are different types of planks available for various purposes. Aluminum planks, solid wood planks, laminated wood planks, scaffold wood planks, and formwork wood planks are commonly used in construction and scaffolding projects.
Choosing a quality, OSHA-compliant plank for the right number of workers/weight capacity is essential to ensuring the safety and durability of everyone involved.
Contact Badger Ladder
Have questions about our plank and stage products? Please contact the Badger Ladder team today! We have been proudly serving construction workers nationwide for nearly 30 years. In addition, we sell our planks and stages to customers from our four locations in Green Bay, WI, Tacoma, WA, Cranbury, NJ, and Savannah, GA.
Besides planks and stages, we are a trusted source for scaffold products, pump jacks, ladders, roofing equipment, and siding brakes. Every one of our products is OSHA grade, so you can rely on quality and durability. Questions for our team about any of our products, or shipping and handling, etc.? Please contact us at (800) 863-9791.