Why You Need Drywall Stilts and How to Use Them
Working at tall heights provides a common challenge for contractors and those who DIY alike. It can be tough to efficiently move drywall, complete electrical work, hand sheetrock, do plastering or repair ventilation at ceiling heights without the use of stilts. This is why drywall stilts are a must-have for any serious drywall installation job.
Stilts provide a wide range of benefits to any drywall project and in particular the final results of any project that requires a height adjustment. Here are the main reasons you should pick up a pair of stilts for your next job. We also include some tips to make sure you do so safely and according to osha regulations.
Stilts save time and money
The most significant benefit of drywall stilts is their ability to save time on jobs that would typically require a ladder, step ladder or other moving platform. For example, any time you’re working on drywall finishing or sanding on walls and need to move to ceilings you can increase the height of the stilts without having to interrupt work flow. Or if you are working on a wall higher than 10 feet, drywalls stilts can make the project much more efficient.
Rather than needing to repeatedly climb up and down then move a ladder during a job, by using drywall stilts at the needed height throughout you are able to achieve your final result much quicker. This saves energy you’d spend climbing up and down the ladder or moving a raised platform like scaffolding. Stilts can also increase your profit by allowing you to take on more jobs while reducing labor costs for your team.
Stilts save space
Most aluminum drywall stilts are compact and lightweight, especially compared to the alternatives. Movable platforms and ladders can take up a lot of space in a job site and can quickly clutter your work area. This can lead to an unsafe scenario. Most stilts are adjustable and come in a wide range of sizes, keeping you from needing to buy multiple pairs. This also preserves space on the job site, in addition to saving money on extraneous equipment.
SUR-PRO S2X DUAL ARM MAGNESIUM 26"-40" STILTS
The SUR-PRO S2X DUAL ARM MAGNESIUM 26"-40" STILTS are high quality drywall and painting stilts made out of strong, lightweight magnesium. The dual pole models have wrap-around leg straps that customers say is more comfortable while using the stilts for extended periods of time. The footplate is also wider and allows for extra stability during longer jobs.
SurPro really set the bar high when they created their new double sided stilts. These tilts are perfectly designed for working longer jobs without the fatigue that comes with these types of jobs. The new SurPro stilts are the best of the best in drywall stilts. The double side poles will not twist or require constant adjustment due to our square tubing design. With all the ranges of height adjustment available you will have maximum stabilization for the best balance, security, and reduced body and foot fatigue.
Check out the Best Drywall Stilts
Learning to use stilts
It takes time to feel comfortable in stilts. They can be a dangerous tool if misused by beginners, so make sure you secure your foot straps and exercise safety any time you put them on. Be sure to practice walking around in stilts before using them on an active job site. Learning to balance on stilts isn’t too unlike learning to balance on rollerblades or ice skates, though stilts are designed to be more stable.
Have others around as you’re learning to walk in stilts for the first time, just for safety’s sake. It can be nerve-wracking, but will eventually become second nature once you get the hang of it. However, being able to walk in stilts and being able to perform manual labor in stilts for hours on end are two very different things. Make sure you’re confident you can do both.
Putting on your stilts
The first time you put on your stilts, you should start at a low height and then work your way up as you get more comfortable and confident. Set your feet on the footrests and tighten the foot strap around them, before doing so with your leg straps, as well. Make sure the fit is comfortable. You’ll potentially be spending hours in these and won’t have a great time if the fit is off. You should also make sure the wing bolts are secured when you put on your stilts.
Don’t use stilts on uneven surfaces or going down stairs. Also watch out for objects like lights or fans that may be hanging from the ceiling. Have any materials you’ll need to work with on a raised platform nearby so you can reach them while wearing your stilts. This will provide you with maximum function and efficiency to knock your drywall job out in no time.
Endless possibilities
Effective uses for drywall stilts extend well beyond drywall work itself. The possibilities are as vast as the wearer’s abilities and can include a wide range of other construction projects. Al’s Taping Tools has provided high-quality drywall tools and expertise to our customers for more than 30 years. Shop our collection of drywall stilts and accessories today to save time and space on your next job.