Introduction
Scaffold boards are a fundamental part of safe and efficient construction, forming the walkways and working platforms that keep tradespeople supported at height. But their use doesn’t stop there – thanks to their strength, size, and availability, scaffold boards are also widely used for temporary ramps, decking areas, bench tops, and even bespoke joinery projects.
Choosing the correct size and type of board is about more than convenience; it means meeting industry standards, ensuring load-bearing capability, and making the job safer and more efficient. In this guide, we’ll break down standard sizes, available variants, and when to use each, plus how MP Moran’s in-store cutting service can help you get exactly what you need.
Variants and Treatments
Not all scaffold boards are the same, and depending on the job, different finishes or materials may be more appropriate.
Untreated vs Pressure-Treated Timber
Standard scaffold boards are typically made from responsibly sourced softwood, such as European whitewood or pine. For general site use, many boards are supplied untreated. However, for boards exposed to the elements over longer periods, especially for ground-level use or permanent structures like decking, pressure-treated scaffold boards offer added protection against rot, moisture, and fungal decay. Treated timber is often green or brown tinted and may last significantly longer in outdoor conditions.
Reclaimed or Rustic Boards
Increasingly popular for furniture makers, gardeners, and landscapers, reclaimed scaffold boards offer a weathered, characterful look. These boards are often used in benches, planters, raised beds and shelving. While not always graded for structural use, they’re perfect for decorative and non-load-bearing applications.
Metal or Composite Scaffold Boards
For high-traffic sites or specialised environments, steel or aluminium scaffold boards are sometimes preferred for their durability and resistance to warping. Composite boards, made from fibreglass or recycled materials, are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for wet or chemical-heavy settings. However, these variants are not typically customisable and are not suitable for in-store cutting.
Standard Scaffold Board Dimensions
In the UK, scaffold boards are manufactured to comply with BS 2482:2009, the British Standard that outlines specifications for timber scaffold boards used in construction. This ensures consistency, safety, and load-bearing reliability when used as part of a certified scaffolding system.
Here are the standard dimensions you’ll find across most job sites:
- Width: 225mm
- Thickness: 38mm
- Standard Lengths: 3.9m (13ft), 3.0m, and 2.4m
Boards manufactured to BS 2482 are stress-graded and marked with a support span rating, most commonly 1.2m, to confirm their suitability for use in access and working platforms. These boards are also fitted with galvanised metal end bands to help prevent splitting and improve lifespan, especially when exposed to site wear and weathering.
According to the NASC (National Access and Scaffolding Confederation) and HSE (Health and Safety Executive) guidelines, only graded scaffold boards should be used for load-bearing access. Untreated or decorative scaffold-style boards are not a substitute for site use unless clearly marked for such purposes.
How to Choose the Right Size Board
Choosing the right scaffold board size starts with how and where you plan to use it. While industry-standard boards are designed for structural use in scaffolding systems, the right length and finish will vary depending on your project.
For site work and scaffolding, use boards that meet BS 2482 specifications, typically 225mm wide, 38mm thick, and available in 2.4m, 3.0m or 3.9m lengths. These are designed to span 1.2m safely and are suitable for platforms, access ramps, and general temporary structures. Always ensure you're using stress-graded boards with metal end bands for added safety and longevity.
If you're working on landscaping or joinery, shorter lengths, such as 1.5m or less, may be easier to handle and better suited to bespoke features like planters, garden steps, or rustic furniture. These projects don’t always require load-rated timber, but it’s still important to choose boards that are dry, straight, and solid.
Also, consider whether your application is temporary or permanent. For long-term outdoor use, pressure-treated timber is worth the extra investment, helping the board resist decay from weather and moisture.
Our In-Store Cutting Service
We understand that not every project calls for standard lengths. Whether you're building raised beds, fitting scaffold boards into a tight space, or crafting bespoke furniture, having timber cut to the correct size can make the job quicker and easier.
That’s why we offer an in-store cutting service across our branches. Our team can cut scaffold boards to your specified length, helping you:
- Reduce waste and unnecessary off-cuts
- Save time on-site or in the workshop
- Get a cleaner, more professional finish
Our team is also on hand to advise on timber treatments, best-suited board types, and appropriate lengths based on your intended use. Whether you’re working on-site or at home, we make it easier to get what you need, cut to fit, and ready to go.
Get the Right Fit, Every Time
Whether you’re creating safe access platforms on-site or repurposing scaffold boards for garden and joinery projects, understanding scaffold board dimensions is key to working efficiently and safely. From BS 2482-compliant boards for structural use to reclaimed timber planks for rustic finishes, choosing the right size and type helps ensure your work is both practical and durable.
Browse our wide range of timber and joinery, or visit your local branch to customise your timber to fit the job. Sign up for a Trade Account for exclusive pricing and easy ordering.
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