Scaffold sheeting is a temporary protective covering used on construction sites, building repairs, and roofing projects. Made from durable polythene, it is secured to scaffolding using bungee ties, clips, or heat sealing, creating a weather-resistant barrier. This helps shield workers and structures from wind, rain, and debris, reducing the risk of damage and delays.
Unlike standard shrink wrap, scaffold sheeting is designed to handle strong winds and long-term exposure to outdoor conditions. It also helps contain dust and debris, improving site safety and compliance with environmental regulations.
So, what makes scaffold sheeting different from shrink wrap, and why is it the better choice for construction projects?
Advantages of scaffold sheeting
1. Increased durability
Construction sites, especially those with tall scaffolding, are exposed to strong winds, heavy rain, and temperature changes. Scaffold sheeting is designed to withstand these conditions, with reinforced polythene that resists tearing and wear over time.
For larger projects, multiple sheets can be joined together using heat sealing, creating a continuous protective layer. This ensures better coverage and prevents gaps where wind and rain could enter. Unlike standard shrink wrap, scaffold sheeting is engineered for long-term durability, making it a more reliable option for construction sites.
2. Designed to withstand strong winds
Scaffolding on high-rise buildings and open construction sites faces intense wind pressure, which can strain protective coverings. Scaffold sheeting is made from flexible yet reinforced polythene that allows it to move with the wind instead of tearing or snapping under pressure.
This controlled flexibility prevents sudden failures that could compromise site safety. Additionally, the material’s increased thickness adds further resistance, ensuring the sheeting remains intact even in harsh weather conditions. Compared to standard shrink wrap, which is more rigid and prone to tearing, scaffold sheeting offers a more reliable solution for long-term use.
3. Certified for quality and safety
Scaffold sheeting must meet strict quality standards to ensure it performs reliably in construction environments. Certified sheeting undergoes rigorous testing to verify its strength, wind resistance, and fire-retardant properties. Using certified materials helps prevent safety risks and ensures compliance with industry regulations.
Unlike standard shrink wrap, which may not meet the same safety requirements, scaffold sheeting is specifically designed for use on construction sites. Certifications such as LPS 1207 and 1215 confirm that the material provides the necessary protection, reducing the risk of failure in demanding conditions.
Scaffold Sheeting vs. Standard Shrink Wrap: What’s the Difference?
While scaffold sheeting and shrink wrap are both used for temporary protection on construction sites, they are not interchangeable. Standard shrink wrap is often applied to smaller structures or short-term projects, while scaffold sheeting is built to handle harsher conditions over extended periods.
| Feature | Scaffold Sheeting | Standard Shrink Wrap |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Made from reinforced polythene for long-term use | Thinner material, prone to wear and tear |
| Wind Resistance | Flexible design allows movement without tearing | More rigid, can snap or tear in strong winds |
| Fire Safety | Available in flame-retardant grades | Typically not fire-resistant |
| Installation | Heat-sealed or clipped for a secure fit | Wrapped and shrunk in place |
| Best For | Large construction projects, high-wind areas, long-term use | Small-scale containment, short-term projects |
If your project requires long-lasting protection against harsh weather, scaffold sheeting is the more reliable option. It is specifically designed for construction environments where durability, wind resistance, and safety compliance are crucial. While standard shrink wrap may be suitable for smaller, enclosed areas, it lacks the strength and flexibility needed for scaffolding applications.
Verisafe shrink film
Our Scaffold shrink wrap is manufactured specifically for encapsulation and containment. As a fully certified material (LPS 1207 and 1215 BRE audited), Verisafe Shrink Film guarantees the industry-leading protection your scaffolding needs against adverse weather and inhospitable construction site conditions. Its heat-sealed joins and malleable properties also make it ideally suited for wrapping unconventional shapes, which standard shrink wrap would struggle to properly cover.
Product specifications:
- Verisafe Shrink Film is available in different sizes from 5m wide up to 12m wide in standard grade, or 7m x 15m in the flame retardant option.
- The product is extremely durable, with a thickness of up to 320 microns. We can offer sizes from 50 to 350 Micron (Mu) from 30cm to 12m.
- Shrink film rolls are white in colour.
- Due to technological progress and the increasing demands in terms of safety, fire protection and ecology on construction sites, Verisafe Shrink Film is by far the best product to choose.
At Polythene UK we also offer professional installation services. Our highly qualified installation team uses a combination of knowledge, experience and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure a safe and efficient installation process, guaranteeing your construction site or scaffolding reliable protection, whatever the weather.
What is scaffold sheeting and shrink wrap? To find out more, or request a quote, call Polythene UK today on 0845 643 1601* or contact us here.
