In the construction industry, some practices are vital for the safety of both the public and workers. Construction sites are dynamic areas where work is almost always in progress. Most of the time, heavy machinery is involved, making the construction site hazardous. It becomes necessary to take some measures to ensure the protection of workers, the surrounding environment, and passersby.
Hoardings serve this purpose well because they are protective fencing around a construction site erected for the safety of both people and the environment. We will discuss in detail the different types, importance, and factors contributing to the choice of the right hoarding for your project.
What is Hoarding in Construction?
Construction hoardings are temporary protective shields/barriers that surround the perimeter of the construction site. Construction hoardings play a very important role in keeping the surrounding population, workers, and materials safe and secure. Hoardings are also important to market the final product of the construction, serving both marketing and security purposes.
They are usually made of metal, plastic, or wood according to the choice and demand. They also prevent unauthorized access to the premises. Construction hoardings also provide privacy as sometimes it is required to secure some confidential materials and some constructions from the public eye.
Why is Hoarding Important for Construction Sites?
Installing hoardings before you start construction is not a choice. It is complementary, according to construction regulations, to isolate the construction site with hoardings to save workers and the outside community from dust, debris, and other risks of physical injuries. Some certain types of hoardings also reduce the noise coming from a construction site. Site hoarding helps minimize the visual and noise disturbance caused during the construction process. This helps make and maintain a positive relationship between construction brands and nearby residents.
Safety at the Site
Construction hoardings act as a protective layer for a safe working environment at the construction site. Irrelevant persons are prohibited at construction sites for safety purposes as well, and construction sites contain valuable equipment, tools, and materials that can be stolen easily if unauthorized persons are free to enter. It also saves people from accidents, injuries, and debris exposure, enhancing overall site safety.
Privacy and Aesthetics
Decorative and promotional hoardings have dual benefits. They not only keep the construction site looking appealing but also enhance the safety and protection of lives and the environment. Rather than inconvenience, they make the construction process more palatable for the nearby community.
Compliance With Local Regulations
Apart from these benefits, installing hoarding barriers is made mandatory by local regulatory authorities before you start constructing a project. In this way, hoardings keep the project legal and safe by sticking to the rules and regulations and helping avoid heavy fines.
Advertising Opportunity
Construction hoardings with attractive graphics and promotional or advertising messages can serve as an additional service other than site safety. They can serve as an effective marketing tool. It can be used to inform the public about the completion date of the project and to promote the company’s services, which can help the company to attract new potential customers.
Types of Construction Site Hoardings
There are several types of hoardings according to the project requirement or as required by the surrounding environment. Some of the types are explained here.
Wooden or plywood Log Hoardings
Wooden or timber hoardings are the most popular and traditional type of hoardings that are commonly used for this purpose. It includes wooden panels, mostly made from plywood, with a frame. Timber hoarding is strong, budget-friendly, and adjustable, making it ideal for general construction purposes. It’s useful when a solid barrier is required or when noise reduction is necessary.
Metal Hoardings
Metal hoarding is installed usually for long-term usage. It is used in urban projects that take several months or years to complete. It includes metal panels of steel or aluminum that can be mounted on metal frames. Metal panels are durable and secure as compared to wooden hoardings. They are also used in high-risk commercial or industrial sites.
Mesh hoardings
This type of hoarding is used for projects that require security and safety as well as visibility and airflow. These hoardings are made of durable metal wire mesh that allows people to see through it. This type of hoarding is used in construction sites as well as in zoos and wildlife parks.
PVC Hoardings
PVC hoardings are often made up of UPVC (Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride). These are Lightweight compared to metal or mesh panels. They are used in short-term indoor or outdoor projects. They are aesthetically appealing and can be imprinted with logos and advertisements. They can be installed or removed with ease.
How to Choose the Right Hoarding for Your Project
The choice of suitable hoarding depends upon several factors, including the project’s location, purpose of hoarding(Security, safety or Aesthetics, Branding, etc), duration of the project, etc.
A professional service provider will help you plan and choose the right hoarding according to project requirements and the surrounding area. If the construction site is in a dense area with high vehicle and on-foot traffic, timber or metal hoardings should be used to ensure the safety of pedestrians and traffic. If higher security is required for a construction site, a more secure hoarding, such as reinforced or metal hoarding, should be used. PVC hoarding will be an excellent choice if the construction site is temporary or requires a more aesthetic appearance.
Final Words
Hoardings are an essential part of the construction site. They are necessary to maintain a safe and secure construction environment. Hoardings are an effective mode of advertisement or promotion as they have huge potential areas that must be utilized in advertisement or promotion.
Project details and messages related to your brand or business can also be imprinted on these hoardings. ZeroSign has been providing signage services to its customers for the last 30 years. Thousands of delivered projects and satisfied clients are our real assets. Feel free to contact us if you are looking for a premium hoarding service for your construction site.