The Essential Support: A Guide to Hiring Acrow Props & Strongboys

 

In any building or renovation project that involves altering a load-bearing structure, temporary support is the most critical safety consideration. Whether you are knocking through a wall to create an open-plan living space, installing a new window, or replacing a failed lintel, you must have a safe and reliable system in place to support the load from above. Using makeshift supports is never an option.

This is where professional Acrow props and Strongboys are indispensable. At Breckland Plant Hire, we supply a comprehensive range of these safety-critical supports to builders and renovators across Norfolk. Hiring the correct, tested equipment provides the peace of mind that your project is safely and securely supported while you work.

 

Our Temporary Support System Explained

 

A professional support system often involves more than just a prop. Understanding the components is key to a safe installation.

 

Acrow Props (Adjustable Steel Props)

 

These are the industry standard for vertical temporary support. An Acrow prop is a telescopic steel post with a heavy-duty thread and a locking pin for coarse and fine height adjustment.

• Function: To transfer the load from a ceiling, floor, or horizontal beam (a ‘needle’) safely down to a solid foundation.
• Sizes: They come in a range of sizes (from Size 0 to Size 4) to accommodate different floor-to-ceiling heights. It is vital to use the correct size for your job, as the prop’s Safe Working Load (SWL) decreases the more it is extended.

 

Strongboys

 

A Strongboy is a robust steel support shaped like a blade, which is attached to the top of an Acrow prop. This simple attachment completely changes how you can support a brick wall.

• Function: The blade of the Strongboy is hammered into a raked-out mortar course in the brickwork. The Acrow prop then supports the Strongboy, which in turn supports the wall from underneath. This allows you to remove the bricks below to create the opening for a new lintel or RSJ.
• Use: They are essential for most ‘knock-through’ jobs and lintel replacements.

 

Why You Must Hire Professional Structural Supports

 

• Engineered for Safety: Acrow props are specifically designed and tested to carry significant loads. Their certified Safe Working Load provides a known quantity of support that makeshift timber props cannot.
• The Complete System: We hire out the full system – the right size props and the essential Strongboy attachments – so you have the correct, compatible equipment for the job.
• Cost-Effective & Convenient: Structural supports are typically needed for only a short phase of a project. Hiring is far more economical than purchasing and storing these bulky items.
• Expert Advice: Our team can advise on the number of props you might need and the correct system to use for your specific application.

 

Common Applications for Prop Hire in Norfolk

 

The trend for open-plan living makes prop hire more popular than ever for renovation projects.

• Creating Openings: The number one use. Safely supporting a wall to install a new lintel or RSJ for a new doorway or a large kitchen-diner opening.
• Window & Door Installation: Supporting the brickwork above while a new, wider window or set of bi-fold doors is installed.
• Floor & Ceiling Repairs: Supporting joists from below while rotten or damaged timbers are replaced.
• Masonry & Arch Repairs: Providing temporary support to an arch or section of wall while masonry repairs are carried out.

 

Why Choose Breckland Plant Hire?

 

• Safety-Checked Equipment: We are acutely aware of the safety-critical nature of this equipment. Every single prop and Strongboy is visually inspected before each hire to ensure it is straight and that the adjustment collar and pin are in perfect working order.
• Full Range of Sizes: We stock a comprehensive range of Acrow prop sizes, ensuring we can supply the correct prop for your specific ceiling height, maximising its load-bearing capacity.
• Expert Support: Whether it’s a small job on a cottage in Attleborough or a major renovation in Thetford, our team can offer practical, safety-first advice.
• Local, Reliable Service: We provide a dependable delivery and collection service across Breckland and the wider Norfolk area.

Never take a risk with structural work. Hire the correct, professional equipment and work with complete confidence.

Contact Breckland Plant Hire today to discuss your project and arrange your Acrow prop and Strongboy hire.