Propping, Needling & Needle Beam Hire

Propping and needling are the temporary works that hold a building safely while an opening is cut in a load-bearing wall. Propping carries the vertical loads on temporary supports; needling threads beams (the needles) through the wall to support the masonry above.

SEL's Slimshore soldier units provide this support using conventional propping and needling techniques. The same soldiers also work in concrete formwork as strongbacks, standing behind wall and column forms to resist the pressure of wet concrete, and in façade retention and basement work. Also known as formwork soldiers, strongbacks, Superslims, Slimlite and support props, they work as prop units, raking shores and needle beams.

Depending on the loading criteria, needle beams may be laterally restrained using light or heavy duty props. Heavy duty props are built up from Slimshore soldier units, which we supply alongside push pull props and acrow props.

You can read more in our in-depth article on the propping and needling approach.

Common Applications

Our propping and needling equipment is often used in the following applications:

• Removal of old foundations
• Building refurbishment
• Facade retention
• Basement construction
• Wall support
• Propping steelwork installations

Features & Benefits

• Soldiers bolt end to end with a 4no. or 6no. M16x40 joint, so lengths build up quickly on site
• One kit works as prop units, raking shores, needle beams and strongbacks
• High load capacity in a light section, keeping handling safe and manageable
• Anchored to a concrete base for stability throughout the works
• Suits domestic properties through to commercial structures

Propping & Needling: Common Questions

Hire Propping & Needling Equipment

Please contact SEL for further information and advice on any Propping or Needling Equipment you may require. To hear more about our latest rates and get a competitive quote, contact our nearest depot or call us on 0117 982 8236.