When to Choose a Vertical Mast Lift vs a Scissor Lift: Key Factors for Construction Sites

Lifting equipment is commonly used in construction projects for various purposes. Two common types of lifts, the vertical mast lift and the scissor lift, are frequently utilized due to their safe and efficient nature. These lifts provide elevated access for workers to safely perform tasks at heights, such as construction, maintenance, installations, or repairs.

Each type of lift offers unique advantages and use cases, so it’s essential to understand the differences between a mast and a scissor lift. In this article, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you compare the two types of lifts. This guide will assist you in better understanding their functions and deciding when to use a vertical mast lift or a scissor lift for a specific project.

Vertical mast lifts and scissor lifts differ mainly in their size and maneuverability. Vertical mast lifts are smaller and more compact, making them suitable for narrow spaces such as indoor construction projects, maintenance work in narrow aisles, and congested job sites where larger equipment cannot operate. On the other hand, scissor lifts are larger and require more space to operate, but they can carry heavier loads

Vertical mast and scissor lifts have unique strengths tailored to specific construction tasks. Both lift types offer valuable solutions for various construction needs, helping teams to work efficiently and effectively. Smaller vertical mast lifts work best for quickly reaching specific areas for maintenance, electrical work, or installations, making them ideal for dynamic, small-scale construction projects. Their agility and versatility make moving smaller loads across a site fast and easy. Meanwhile, scissor lifts are best for tasks demanding larger work platforms and heavy load-lifting capabilities.

Reach and height capabilities for these lifts should also be taken into consideration when deciding which is better suited for a construction task.  Depending on your specific height access needs, you can choose between a vertical mast lift or a scissor lift.

Vertical mast lifts offer standard height and reach capabilities of up to 30 feet, making them ideal for indoor ceilings, HVAC systems, and signage work. In contrast, scissor lifts provide even greater reach capabilities of up to 60 feet or more, making them perfect for projects where working at higher elevations is needed.

When choosing between vertical mast lifts and scissor lifts, it’s important to consider the available space and accessibility of the work site. Vertical mast lifts are compact and can easily fit through doorways and elevators. So, if you are working on indoor jobs in high-rise buildings, have tighter access areas, or work in a fast-paced environment, a vertical mast lift will be best. In these cases, scissor lifts may be too large, making it more challenging to maneuver in multi-story or restricted-access construction sites.

What is the timeline for the construction task, and what type of budget is available? For projects with a limited budget and a need to complete a quick job that doesn’t require higher reach or larger platforms, vertical mast lifts are more affordable to rent and operate for shorter-term or smaller-scale projects. For more significant projects, especially those that require reaching much higher areas, scissor lifts are ideal.

After considering the available space for movement, the height and reach requirements for the task at hand, the budget, and other factors, you should better know which option is more suitable for your needs: a vertical mast lift or a scissor lift. No matter which one you need, either will help you complete your job quickly and on time.

At 365 Equipment & Supply, we offer a wide range of high-quality equipment for all your needs. Our rental options include various vertical mast lifts, such as the Genie® Runabout™ Aerial Work Platform and the Skyjack Vertical Mast Lift. Our team is here to help you determine the best equipment rental for your project needs. Contact us today to discuss the most cost-effective and versatile machines available!