Replies

1. 
   calvin | Aug 29, 2011 08:51pm | #1

   C.

   That question has no right answer.....................

   Ideally, you would purchase something that would do it all, but alas that isn't the probable outcome in remodeling.

   I have a 20 ft pic, bought it to side my own house 20 some yrs ago.  Along with the pump jacks, a worthwhile investment because I needed it to do the job solo.  Used it again on 2 additions and a very rare commercial application.

   Have several sections of scaffold-bought off of an extended rental-way over 30 yrs ago-used that "often", glad I had it, but wouldn't have been the end of the world if I had to rent it.  The platforms and planks for that have gotten use other than on the scaffold.  All told, the convenience of it being here and readily available-made the purchase worthwhile.

   I've got several 8ft wood planks that I use most often-between ladders, and occasional ladder jack situation-limited because of the length, but about all I can handle alone.  Most used between ladders, both 2ft and 8ft high-crown, hanging and finishing board, whatever requires you to be the same height for 8ft or more.

   I've borrowed and always wanted an extendable aluminum plank-8 ft pulled up and what do they go-10/12 extended.  They aren't light, might get a 6 pulled up.  Used to have an old wood one, that took a walk.  It didn't lock in lengths like the aluminum.

   I'd get what I coould lift, haul and hopefully could do this job and several more.  They're like ladders, sure an 8 can do 2ft on up-but it's way better to have a 2 when you need it, and a 4 and 6...............

   Look at it this way, unless you make a mistake, you'll use it..........it's a writeoff...............and you'll ;have it when you want it.

   I'm sure this helped zip.

   Brands, have had good luck with Werner (not the big box variety), biljax, Louisville.

2. 
   davidmeiland | Aug 30, 2011 09:05am | #2

   The size you need

   often depends on where it's going and what it has to span. I have a 12' and a 20', and can usually do something with one of them, but will need a 24' for an upcoming setup. I can move the 12' by myself easily but not the 20'. A 16'... maybe.

   If you look for these used, they are plentiful. No need to spring for a new one. Both of mine are Werner.

3. 
   camling | Aug 30, 2011 01:11pm | #3

   Thanks guys I appreciate the suggestions. I agree used is probably the way to go. Now im thinking either 12 or 16 ft long.  What widths do you suggest?

1. 
   calvin | Aug 30, 2011 07:51pm | #4

   Well,

   I"ve worked on a 12 or 14" and the 20'er I own is 24"........that's like a sidewalk.  For prolonged work, moving around, perhaps saw set up and not wanting to get real close to a partner..........it's the ticket.  Is bulky and I would submit-only for use on pump jacs.  The 12 would work fine on ladder jacks.

4. 
   fingers | Sep 03, 2011 01:26pm | #5

   Most versitile IMO would be an aluminum extendable plank 10'-17'.  Not cheap but versitile and movable by one person..  For longer stuff keep an eye on craigslist.  I've got a 20', a few 24' and a 28' and none of them was too pricey.