Cherry Picker vs Scaffolding: A Safer, Smarter Choice for Isle of Wight Properties

When you need work done at height, whether it’s roof repairs, chimney sweeping, gutter maintenance, or building inspections, you’ll often be faced with two main options: scaffolding or a cherry picker.

At IPS Isle of Wight, we use our own cherry picker for many jobs, and here’s why it’s often the safer, smarter, and more cost-effective choice for local properties.

1. Speed of Setup

  • Cherry Picker: Can be set up and ready to go in as little as 30 minutes.
  • Scaffolding: Requires significant time to erect and dismantle, often taking half a day or more.

 

When dealing with urgent repairs such as after bad weather, speed matters. Our cherry picker means we can get to the problem fast, reducing the risk of further damage.

2. Safety for Workers and Properties

Our cherry picker offers a stable, enclosed platform that keeps operatives securely harnessed at all times. With scaffolding, workers have to climb and navigate platforms, increasing potential risks, especially in windy Isle of Wight conditions.

For your property, a cherry picker is far less invasive. Scaffolding can sometimes scuff walls, damage flowerbeds, or require drilling anchor points, whereas our cherry picker touches only the ground beneath its stabilisers.

Cracked roof tiles

3. Cost Efficiency

Scaffolding hire can be costly, especially for short jobs. Because we own our cherry picker, we can pass on the savings to you, making high-level access more affordable.

Example from a recent IPS job:
A customer in Ryde needed a quick chimney inspection after noticing loose mortar. Using our cherry picker, we completed the work in under an 2-3 hours.  Scaffolding would have required a full day of setup, an additional hire fee, and multiple visits.

 

4. Flexibility for Different Jobs

Our cherry picker can easily access:

  • Narrow driveways or gardens

  • Hard-to-reach rooflines

  • Multiple sides of a building without dismantling and rebuilding access equipment.

 

It’s perfect for a variety of property services, from drone-assisted roof surveys to chimney repairs.

 

5. Reduced Disruption

With scaffolding, your property can feel like a building site for days or even weeks. A cherry picker arrives, does the job, and is gone the same day, keeping disruption to your home, business, or neighbours to a minimum.

Carpentry Services - Timber Frames
Cherry Picker Roof Tile Repair

When to Call a Professional

While some minor roofing issues can be addressed with DIY fixes, it’s always best to talk to a professional for major repairs or structural concerns. As property maintenance roofers we can:

  • Conduct a thorough inspection to identify hidden problems.
  • Provide expert solutions that prevent further damage.
  • Ensure safety and compliance with building regulations.
 

Regular roof maintenance and timely repairs can help you avoid costly damage and extend the life of your roof. If you notice any signs of damage, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to keep your home safe and secure. Call us today on 01983 866830

Contact Us Today For A Free Quote