How to safely access windows above a lean-to extension?

Question

My window frames and external sills are falling apart. They are in a vertical wall above a lean-to extension, so I cannot figure out a way of making a safe and stable platform to stand on, so I can get up there and do some work.

I guess this is a common situation for roofers and glaziers. So... what is a good method?

A bad idea:

The window cleaners put their ladders at a very shallow angle, with one end on the outside sill and the other end on the ground, and climb up. Possibly OK for a quick and easy job, but probably not safe for difficult work.

Thanks, David P.

Cicero · Accepted Answer

==================================Buy a cheap access tower, some lengths of scaffolding tube and somescaffolding clips. Use the scaffolding tube and clips (attached to thetower) to create a cantilevered base for a platform of wooden planks.Make sure that the horizontal members of the cantilevered section are longenough to reach the house wall to prevent the tower leaning inwards.Cic.

Mr Fuxit · Answer

Get a price from a scaffolding firm before you do anything else. Then, you will be able to compare this cost against the cost of lying in a hospital for three or six months while your poor, broken body heals after they drag you from the shattered remains of whichever lash- up you tried to use.

Brian G · Answer

David,Dependent on the width of the lean-to and access either side of it - you could try a modular scaffold system (hire) with Youngman planks.  Or preferably, ring the local scaffold company to supply and erect some scaffold - you may be pleasantly surprised at the cost!Brian G

Cicero · Answer

==================================You could ignore the scare-mongers and use a tried and tested method(tower with cantilevered platform) such as I suggested and which I've usedfor years for safe access over porches and lean-to roofs.Cic.

myheadisonbackwards · Answer

Thanks for your ideas, everyone.I was intrigued by Cicero's cantilever idea, but I don't think Ihave the balls to do it myself.For some reason, I was too thick to think of calling a scaffoldcompany, but that seems like the best idea - thanks to Brian G.   Regards,   David P (the OP)

How to safely access windows above a lean-to extension?

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