How to Install Pump Jack Roofing Braces

Assemble 8-foot two-by-four studs by placing studs face-to-face and using a hammer and nails to attach them. Measure any cuts you will need to make on the studs using a tape measure and cut the studs with a circular saw. The maximum length you can make the supports is 30 feet long, and you must overlap studs by a minimum of 3 feet for each section in the same manner you would stagger bricks in a wall. Space nails 12 inches apart when you nail the studs together. Nails should be 6 inches apart near the splices in the studs where you are putting them together.

Place scaffold mending plates at each splice and nail them into place using a hammer and nails. Be sure to countersink all nails because the studs must be smooth for the pump jacks to operate properly. The total number of scaffold supports you will need depends on the overall length of the area you are working on. As a rule of thumb, the supports should be no further than 7 feet apart when you are using wooden planks. The distance increases to 11 feet between the supports if you are using aluminum planks.

Install a pole anchor at the bottom of each support you are using for the pump jack scaffold. Place a triangle brace on each pole near the top. Place the ladder against the house and have a helper climb up to the roof. Stand the first support pole up with the seam facing the wall of the house. Make sure the ground is not loose or soft mud when you set up the pump jack system. Have your assistant secure the triangle brace to the roof using a hammer and nails. Use a triangle brace for each 10 foot of length for your support poles.

Continue installing the support poles in the same manner until you have them all set up. Place the walk planks on the pump jacks. The overhang must be at least 6 inches but not more than 12 inches beyond the edge of the support. If you are using wooden planks, you must use at least 2-by-10 boards. When you raise or lower the scaffolding, both sides must go at the same time.