Building Wraps for Scaffolds and Large Elevations

Where building wraps are used

• Scaffolding during refurbishment, showing an image of the finished facade.
• Developments and new builds, promoting the scheme and the developer.
• Large blank elevations used for brand or event graphics.
• Temporary coverings for buildings awaiting redevelopment.

Mesh or solid material

Most wraps on scaffolding use printed mesh, which lets wind pass through and reduces the load on the scaffold. It also lets some light into the building behind. Solid PVC gives a more vivid image and suits sheltered or smaller areas, but catches much more wind. We choose the material based on the size, height and exposure of the site, and the scaffold designer should confirm that the scaffold can take the wrap.

Fixing frames and tensioning

A wrap needs to be tensioned evenly or it will sag and flap. On scaffolding, it is usually fixed to the tube with ties or to a dedicated frame. On walls, a perimeter frame lets the material be stretched tight and allows panels to be changed later. Large wraps are printed in sections and joined or overlapped so the image lines up across the whole elevation.

Designing at scale

Artwork for a wrap has to look right from the street and from a distance. Simple images, bold text and strong colours work best. If you want an image of the finished building, an architect's render or a photograph can be scaled up, but the source file must be high enough resolution. We check artwork and produce a mock-up of the wrap on a photograph of the building before printing.

Consent and practical points

Building wraps that carry advertising usually need advertisement consent from the local planning authority, and large wraps in prominent locations are looked at carefully. Wraps that simply show the finished building may be treated differently. Check with your council early. Installation over pavements may need a licence, and work at height has to be coordinated with the scaffold contractor.

Wraps, hoardings and banners

Building wraps cover scaffolds and elevations. At ground level, our hoarding signs service covers site hoardings, and smaller banners for railings and fences are covered by our PVC banners service.

Planning a wrap project

Building wraps are usually tied to a project programme, so it pays to plan early. Agree with the main contractor when the scaffold will be up and fully boarded, and when it will be adapted or struck, so the wrap goes up and comes down at the right times. Leave time for artwork approval, any consent application and printing, which for very large wraps happens in sections. If the scaffold changes during the job, for example when a lift is removed, panels can be taken down and refitted. We work with the scaffold contractor to make sure ties, frames and access are agreed before installation.

Building Wraps: Questions and Answers

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