Residential
Domestic Scaffolding
Loft conversions, roof repairs, painting, chimney work, and extensions. We take care of your property as if it were our own, ensuring clean and tidy installations every time.
About Us
The Island's Oldest & Longest-Running Scaffolding Company
Access Scaffolding (IOW) Ltd, trading as THF Scaffolding, is the Isle of Wight's oldest and longest-running scaffolding company. Established in 1991, founder John Ford has been there from the very start — and still leads the business today.
That continuity matters. It means decades of knowledge, relationships, and standards built up over 35 years of working on the Island. Every member of our team is fully trained, CISRS qualified, and Asbestos Awareness certified — ensuring the highest standards of safety on every project we undertake.
Our client list speaks for itself — from GKN Aerospace and BAE Systems to St Mary's Hospital and the famous Wight Shipyard mural. Whether it's a thatched cottage, a defence facility, or an NHS hospital, THF delivers.
£10M Liability Cover
Safecontractor Accredited
DBS Checked Staff
CISRS Qualified
IOW Trading Standards Approved
Asbestos Awareness (IATP)
Full Design Service
Street Permits Arranged
Our Services
Scaffolding Services Across the Isle of Wight
From domestic extensions to major industrial sites, THF Scaffolding delivers safe, reliable scaffolding hire and erection services across every town on the Isle of Wight — Newport, Ryde, Cowes, Sandown, Shanklin, Ventnor, and beyond.
Business
Commercial Scaffolding
Hotels, offices, retail premises, schools, and public buildings. We deliver safe access solutions that keep your project on schedule and within budget.
Industrial
Industrial Scaffolding
Factories, power stations, marine, and heavy industry. Complex access requirements expertly handled with full scaffold design service and traffic management.
Trusted By Industry Leaders
The Companies That Rely On Us
From global defence contractors to specialist island trades, our clients trust THF Scaffolding to deliver safe, reliable access solutions — every time.
GKN Aerospace
Providing scaffolding access at GKN's advanced composites facility in East Cowes — supporting one of the Isle of Wight's largest employers in the aerospace and defence sector.
BAE Systems
Trusted to deliver scaffolding on secure defence and engineering sites for one of the world's leading defence, security, and aerospace companies.
Wight Shipyard Co.
Our largest and most visible project — providing the scaffolding for the famous mural by artist Alice Malia at the Columbine Building, East Cowes, as featured on the BBC.
Fifth Elevation
Regular scaffolding partner for this Portsmouth-based industrial roofing and cladding specialist, supporting their projects across the south of England.
GJ Banks
Providing specialist scaffolding for church restoration and heritage building work — requiring careful handling of historic and listed structures.
Solar Panel Installers
Working with multiple solar energy companies across the Island, providing safe roof access for residential and commercial solar panel installations.
St Mary's Hospital
A regular client — providing ongoing scaffolding services at the Isle of Wight's main NHS hospital. Healthcare facilities demand the highest standards of safety and minimal disruption, and we deliver both.
AD Construction Group
Trusted scaffolding partner for AD Construction Group, supporting their building and construction projects with reliable access solutions and professional service.
The Island's Go-To for Thatching Scaffolding
We provide scaffolding for both of the Isle of Wight's master thatchers — Steve Greenen and Darcy Muncer. Thatching requires specialist scaffolding setups with careful access planning, and our decades of experience make us the first choice for this traditional craft.
Our Clients
Trusted by Leading Organisations
Accreditations & Approvals
Certified. Approved. Qualified.
Why Choose THF
Why Choose THF Scaffolding on the Isle of Wight?
As the Island's oldest scaffolding company, we've had over 35 years to get it right. Here's what sets us apart.
Safety First, Always
Safecontractor Accredited, IOW Trading Standards Approved, with £10M liability insurance. All staff are CISRS qualified, DBS checked, and Asbestos Awareness certified (IATP). We never cut corners on safety — your peace of mind is our priority.
Founder-Led Since Day One
John Ford founded THF in 1991 and still leads the company today. That kind of continuity is rare in any trade — you'll always deal directly with the team, not a call centre. We treat every client like a neighbour.
Full Design Service
From initial design to street permits and traffic management, we handle every aspect of your scaffolding project. Complex requirements? We thrive on them.
24/7 Emergency Call-Outs
Emergencies don't wait for business hours and neither do we. THF provides emergency scaffolding call-outs any time of the day or night — whenever you need us, we're there.
Specialist Sectors
More Than Standard Scaffolding
While most scaffolding firms offer the basics, THF has decades of experience in specialist sectors that demand extra skill, care, and expertise.
Solar Panel Access
Safe roof access for solar panel installation on homes and commercial buildings. We work with multiple solar companies across the Island.
Thatched Properties
Specialist scaffolding for thatched cottages and roofs, working alongside the Island's master thatchers. Careful setups that protect delicate reed and straw work.
Church & Heritage
Scaffolding for listed buildings, churches, and heritage restoration. We understand the sensitivity required when working with historic structures.
Marine & Shipyard
Industrial-scale scaffolding for maritime facilities, including our landmark project at Wight Shipyard Co. in East Cowes.
Industrial Roofing
Access solutions for industrial cladding, roofing, and maintenance. Regular partner to specialist roofing contractors across the south coast.
Defence & Aerospace
Cleared to work on secure sites for major defence contractors including GKN Aerospace and BAE Systems.
Our Work
Scaffolding Projects Across the Isle of Wight
Over 40 completed projects — from charming thatched cottages to the Wight Shipyard. See the quality of our work across the Isle of Wight.
Featured Project
The Wight Shipyard Mural
Scaffolding a Masterpiece
In one of our most high-profile projects, THF Scaffolding provided the access scaffolding for a stunning large-scale mural at the Columbine Building, Wight Shipyard Co. in East Cowes.
The artwork was created by acclaimed artist Alice Malia, and the project was featured on the BBC. Our team designed and erected a bespoke scaffolding solution that gave the artist safe, stable access across the entire building facade — a job requiring precision planning and careful execution.
This project showcases what sets THF apart: the ability to handle unique, complex, and high-visibility projects that go beyond standard scaffolding. From the Island's shipyards to its churches, thatched cottages, and defence facilities — no two jobs are the same, and we wouldn't have it any other way.
Full building facade
Artist: Alice Malia
Featured on BBC
East Cowes, IOW
Coverage
Not listed?
Scaffolding Covering the Entire Isle of Wight
Based in Shanklin, we serve every town and village across the Island. No job is too near or too far.
- Shanklin
- Sandown
- Ventnor
- Ryde
- Newport
- Cowes
- East Cowes
- Freshwater
- Yarmouth
- Bembridge
- Brading
- Totland
- Wootton
- Godshill
- Niton
- Seaview
Not listed?
We still cover you.
We provide scaffolding services across every corner of the Isle of Wight. Give us a call.
Call 01983 609249
What Our Clients Say
Scaffolding Reviews — 29 Five-Star Reviews on Yell.com
A perfect 5.0 rating from every single customer. Don't just take our word for it — read all 29 reviews on Yell.com
"We cannot rate THF enough. The level of service was outstanding, very fast response, value for money. The lads worked quickly, very polite and helpful, scaffolding was excellent quality and were very accommodating with any extras that needed to be added. From start to finish they were very professional and reliable."
Yell.com — Aug 2022
"We can highly recommend John and THF. Right from the beginning John was responsive and helpful. We had a long and complex build and THF Scaffolding were flexible in accommodating our changing requirements. The standard of the scaffolding was excellent and everyone was always professional, polite and helpful. Well done to you all and thank you."
Yell.com — Jan 2024
"I have used THF Scaffolding for many years and I have never been disappointed by the service they provide. John is extremely knowledgeable and always comes up with the best scaffolding solution, and Sam puts this together safely and efficiently. I would strongly recommend THF Scaffolding to anyone."
Yell.com — Oct 2025
"THF Scaffolding have been great to work with, so helpful and accommodating. Nothing was too much to ask, even arranging permit extensions and extra scaffold for the job. A fantastic company to converse with for a small or large project, they are very professional from start to finish."
Yell.com — May 2019
"Best scaffolding company I've ever used. Calm and professional, John went above and beyond when issues arose. Wholeheartedly recommend. Thanks THF!"
Yell.com — Aug 2024
"It was a pleasure to have this team on site. Great communication, polite, considerate guys who were very accommodating to our complex requirements, helpful and went the extra mile."
Yell.com — Aug 2022
"John's staff were absolutely outstanding, going above and beyond to erect and strike scaffolding at The Man in The Moon, St James Street, Newport. Courteous, conscientious, and professional."
Yell.com — Jun 2025
"We have been working with THF Scaffolding for 3 years, the quality of service and reliability is second to none. Would highly recommend. RPL Construction."
Yell.com — Jan 2023
"Great experience! I was let down by another scaffold company last minute and although all scaffolding companies on the Island were very busy, John fitted us in in less than a week. Brilliant service, very professional and great to deal with. My first choice next time!"
Yell.com — Jul 2022
"Really pleasant service, we're a solar panel company and got a good price followed by good service for the 2 weeks we had the scaffolding. Will definitely use them again."
Yell.com — Mar 2023
"Professional team, John came over to Wroxall to measure the domestic job promptly. The scaffold was erected quickly and removed when we were finished. Nice scaffolding, mindful of doors and a pole to hold onto at the entrance. Fair price, would very much recommend."
Yell.com — Oct 2021
"THF Scaffolding - Very good and reliable. John has an amazing team. We would always recommend them. They have been around for some years now and know their stuff. They are very well priced as well."
Yell.com — Jul 2021
Common Questions
Scaffolding FAQ — Isle of Wight
Everything you need to know about hiring scaffolding on the Isle of Wight.
How quickly can you erect scaffolding?
For most domestic jobs, we can typically have scaffolding erected within a few days of your enquiry. Larger commercial or industrial projects are scheduled to fit your project timeline. We pride ourselves on being responsive and working around your deadlines.
How much does scaffolding cost?
Every project is different, so we provide free, no-obligation quotations tailored to your specific needs. Factors that affect price include the height, complexity, duration of hire, access difficulties, and any specialist requirements. Give us a call or use our quote form for a fast response.
Do I need a licence to have scaffolding on a public pavement?
Yes — if scaffolding needs to be erected on a public highway or pavement, a street permit is required from the local authority. We handle this entire process for you as part of our full design and planning service, including any traffic management that may be needed.
What insurance do you carry?
We carry £10 million public liability insurance, giving you complete peace of mind. All our staff are CISRS qualified, DBS checked, and hold IATP Asbestos Awareness certificates. We are Safecontractor Accredited and Isle of Wight Council Trading Standards Approved, which means our standards are independently audited and verified by both industry and local government.
Can you scaffold listed buildings and churches?
Absolutely. We have extensive experience scaffolding listed buildings, churches, and heritage properties across the Isle of Wight, working with contractors like GJ Banks. These projects require extra care and sensitivity, and we have the expertise to protect historic fabric while providing safe access.
Do you provide scaffolding for solar panel installation?
Yes — we work with several solar panel companies on the Island, providing safe roof access for both residential and commercial solar installations. With the growth in renewable energy, this has become one of our most in-demand services.
What areas do you cover?
We cover the entire Isle of Wight — from Cowes to Ventnor, Ryde to Freshwater, and everywhere in between. Based in Shanklin, no job on the Island is too far. We also occasionally work on mainland projects with our key partners.
How long can I hire scaffolding for?
Hire duration is flexible and agreed at the quotation stage. Most domestic projects run for 2 to 8 weeks. If your project runs longer than expected, just let us know and we can extend the hire. We work around your schedule, not the other way around.
Do you offer emergency call-outs?
Yes — we provide 24/7 emergency scaffolding call-outs. Whether it's storm damage, a structural concern, or an urgent site requirement in the middle of the night, call us and we'll be there. As the Island's oldest scaffolding firm, we understand that emergencies can't wait.
Do you provide temporary roofing on the Isle of Wight?
Yes. We provide temporary roof scaffolding across the Isle of Wight, ideal for properties undergoing major roof repairs, loft conversions, or where weather protection is needed during construction. Our temporary roofing solutions keep your property dry and your project on schedule.
Are your scaffolders qualified and DBS checked?
Every member of our team is CISRS qualified (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme), DBS checked, and holds an IATP Asbestos Awareness certificate. We are Safecontractor Accredited and IOW Council Trading Standards Approved. Our qualifications exceed what most Isle of Wight scaffolding companies offer.
Can you provide scaffolding for thatched properties?
Yes — we have decades of experience scaffolding thatched cottages across the Isle of Wight. Thatched properties require specialist care to avoid damage to the reed or straw. We design bespoke scaffolding solutions that protect your thatch while giving tradespeople safe, stable access.
How do I get a free scaffolding quote on the Isle of Wight?
Getting a free scaffolding quote is easy. Call us on 01983 609249, mobile 07974 157558, email john@thfscaffoldingiow.co.uk, or use the quote form on this page. We'll arrange a site visit, assess your requirements, and provide a no-obligation written quotation — usually within 24–48 hours.
What is the oldest scaffolding company on the Isle of Wight?
THF Scaffolding (Access Scaffolding IOW Ltd) is the Isle of Wight's oldest and longest-running scaffolding company. Established in 1991 by John Ford, who still leads the business today, THF has been serving the Island for over 35 years — longer than any other scaffolding firm on the Isle of Wight.
Free Quotations
Ready to discuss your project?
Whether you need scaffolding for a small domestic job or a large-scale commercial project, we're here to help. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quotation.
01983 609249
07974 157558
john@thfscaffoldingiow.co.uk
1 Apse Reach Cottages, Shanklin, IOW, PO37 6QH
7 Days a Week: 7:00am – 7:00pm
24/7 Emergency Call-Outs Available