The Benefits of Using Drywall Stilts for Your Next Project

As a contractor, you’ve probably seen drywall stilts before, but that doesn’t mean you’ve used them. That’s okay! They can even be intimidating to those with years of experience. The tool is complex and looks complicated.

But the truth is, the stilts are simpler and easier to manage than most would think. The benefits of using drywall stilts for your next project outweigh any potential downsides.

Time Saver

Construction jobs take up a lot of time, and if there is ever a moment to save some, contractors should take it. Don’t cut corners and skimp out on important details to save some time. Instead, use tools that make the job more efficient. It’s always a plus.

Drywall stilts save you time on the job because you don’t need to constantly climb up and down a ladder to reach great heights. This may seem like an insignificant benefit, but it’s not. Those seconds and minutes start to add up—especially if you want to take a break because the constant maneuver starts to feel taxing on your body.

You’re already at a higher elevation when using drywall stilts. The most you’ll need to do is raise your arms, and the job is already halfway done. Now, you can move on to other areas of the project that require your attention.

Cost-Effective

Sometimes, in the drywall business, you have to spend money to make money. The best and most effective drywall tools will cost a pretty penny, but they end up saving you a lot of money in the long run. Drywall stilts fall under this category.

Saving time on the job always means saving you money. You can increase your profit and take on more jobs while reducing your team’s labor costs. You’ll be able to complete most of the work yourself, and it won’t take up too much time.

You can add another to the list of pros with the hours you save on the job. You can move up the timeline, take on another contract, and double your profit. Don’t spread yourself too thin because you’ll risk burnout and damaging your reputation with your clients.

Saves Space

Drywall stilts may perform the same function as ladders, but they are much more lightweight and compact than their counterparts. A job site can get messy. The floor space should be clear, but there will be times when some items take up space.

A ladder will definitely get in the way of things. Use the drywall stilts, so you don’t need to worry about constantly shifting the ladder or accidentally misplacing it. Ladders make a job site feel congested, whether they’re lying flat on the ground or leaning up against the wall.

While the stilts are on your feet, they don’t risk getting in the way. Even when you remove them and place them off to the side, they’ll only take up a small corner—even less when you fold them up and adjust their height.

Adjustability

The height adjustability might be the best feature of the stilts. Hanging drywall is a physically demanding job. Over time, your joints and muscles will start to strain. However, as drywall tools evolve, they should make the job easier on the human body.

Your back, arms, and legs can rest easier when you’re wearing the stilts. The adjustable levers on the side will get your body as high or as low as needed. Don’t worry about reaching over your head when laying sheetrock or applying mud to the ceiling.

The stilts come in various sizes, all designed to handle some of the most common construction jobs and some unique ones. Their sizes add a minimum height of 18 inches and a maximum height of 30 inches—but you can go higher if you choose. Purchase a pair of 48-64” stilts to take on the bigger contracts—such as those with 10-foot ceilings.

Stilts Safety

Drywall tools come with safety guidelines so workers can get the most out of the tool while keeping themselves safe. Stilts are beneficial, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be cautious when operating them.

Attaching Them

Attach the stilts to your feet after inspecting them. Make sure there are no signs of damage or wear and tear. Never strap them to your feet if they look overworn. Use all the straps on the stilts. None are optional; manufacturers include all the straps to protect the user.

Make sure your footwear is appropriate and secure to your foot. Take a seat and place your foot inside the stilts when it’s at its lowest setting. Place your heel firmly against the metal cup and tighten the strap. Ensure the semi-circular knee brace is below your knee. Tighten the straps to your knee without causing discomfort.

Walking In Them

If you need help adjusting to the new height, have a coworker help you stand. Or, if the surface you’re sitting on is high enough that the adjustment isn’t so daunting, use it to help you rise. Once you get your footing, make sure the area is clear. Never walk near or over any power cords.

Either tape down all the power cords or roll them up and place them off to the side before putting on the stilts. Sweep the floor and clear away as much debris as possible. Walking on the stilts may feel strange at first, but manufacturers designed them to move easily with the user.

You don’t need to take wide, exaggerated steps. Walk as you normally would on the job site, and the stilts will do the rest.

Removing Them

When it’s time to step out of them, never try to remove them while standing up. Find a safe location and lower the stilts to the lowest setting before sitting down.

Unstrap your knees first and then your feet. Inspect the stilts for any damage while in use. Sheetrock stilts are an investment, so you want to make sure they last a long time.

At Timothy’s Toolbox, we want all our drywallers to receive and know how to properly use the tools they deserve. That’s why knowing the benefits of using drywall stilts on your next project is important. Visit our website for more information.