Scaffold Companies vs. Scaffold Rentals: Which is Right for Your Next Build?
Choosing the Right Support for Your Project
When it comes to construction, maintenance, or industrial work, scaffolding plays a critical role in keeping workers safe and operations running smoothly. But one question comes up often:
Should you hire a scaffold company or rent the equipment yourself?
The answer depends on several factors, including your project size, team experience, safety needs, and timeline. This blog walks you through the pros and cons of each option—so you can make a smart, informed decision that fits your project.
What Do Scaffold Companies Offer?
Scaffold companies go beyond simply supplying equipment. They usually offer a full-service package that includes:
- Scaffolding design and planning
- Installation and dismantling
- On-site inspections
- Ongoing maintenance
- Compliance with provincial safety standards
These services are particularly valuable for industrial construction projects, where safety, precision, and efficiency matter just as much as cost.
Take a look at our page on Industrial Scaffolding Services to see how we approach safety and structure in every project.
Benefits of Working with Scaffold Companies:
- No need to train your crew for scaffolding setup
- Reduces liability and ensures safety compliance
- Time-saving and less administrative load
- Ideal for long-term or complex builds
When projects involve multiple trades, irregular building surfaces, or complex site access points, hiring professionals who specialize in scaffolding ensures everything runs safely and efficiently from day one.
What You Get with Scaffold Rentals
Scaffold rentals, on the other hand, give you access to the equipment only. It’s up to your team to assemble, inspect, and manage it on site.
While it’s often a more affordable choice upfront, renting scaffolding also puts more responsibility on your team—especially when it comes to safety.
You might choose scaffold rentals if:
- You have a crew already trained in scaffold setup
- The project is short-term and has minimal height or design complexity
- You’re working with a tight budget
- You have access to your own safety inspection team
Just keep in mind that rentals work best for small commercial renovations or light industrial repairs—not for heavy-duty jobs.
Cost vs. Safety: A Balanced Look
Let’s look at a quick comparison:
| Factor | Scaffold Companies | Scaffold Rentals |
|---|---|---|
| Setup & Design | Done by professionals | Done in-house (DIY) |
| Safety Compliance | Guaranteed by company | Your responsibility |
| Cost | Higher upfront | Lower upfront |
| Liability | Reduced | Increased |
| Ideal Project Type | Large/Complex/Industrial | Small/Short-term |
| Timeline Efficiency | Faster due to expert handling | Depends on crew availability |
For example, if you’re planning a Greenfield Project, where safety standards must be met at every phase, hiring scaffold companies is often the most secure choice. You can learn more about that on our Greenfield Projects page.
Consider the Type of Construction You’re Doing
If you’re involved in commercial or mining construction, where structural steel and scaffolding are used extensively, working with an experienced scaffold company saves time and prevents costly mistakes.
At Credence Construction Ltd., we work closely with clients across Saskatchewan, offering support from design to dismantling. Whether it’s steel fabrication, repair and maintenance, or scaffolding setup, we understand the challenges that construction companies face—especially when it comes to timelines, logistics, and safety regulations.
Choosing What’s Right for You
Here are some quick questions to ask before making your decision:
- Does your crew have experience in scaffold setup and inspection?
- Is your project large, multi-phase, or complex?
- Do you have time and resources for in-house safety management?
- Is compliance a high concern due to the industry or location?
If you answered yes to the first and third questions, scaffold rental might be a fit.
If you answered yes to the second and fourth, a scaffold company is likely the better choice.
Final Thoughts
At first glance, scaffold rentals may seem more budget-friendly. But in many cases, especially on industrial sites or large commercial builds, the value of working with experienced scaffold companies quickly becomes clear.
From reducing liability and improving efficiency to ensuring compliance with Saskatchewan and Canadian construction standards, professional scaffolding services offer peace of mind and long-term savings.
Want to speak with a scaffolding expert?
Contact Credence Construction Ltd. and we’ll help you decide the best approach for your site, budget, and goals.
