How to Use an Industrial Ladder Siding Brake

If you own a business or work on a job site that requires the cutting or bending of sheet metal, a siding brake may be what you need. This tool allows for the measuring, bending into specific shapes, and cutting to size of most any type of sheet material. Siding brakes are used for all types of jobs, including making gutters, drip edges, roof and window flashing, and air ducts all from the convenience of your home or job site location. Utilizing a siding brake is fairly easy and straightforward, but there are always safety precautions and handling suggestions to take into mind when using any type of construction equipment.

Proper Safety When Using a Siding Brake

To prevent injury to yourself or others, you must use proper safety techniques while utilizing a siding brake. Read the instruction manual before operating to be sure of any steps that are necessary to take for safety precautions. Additionally, always inspect the siding brake for damage before using. If there is substantial damage, do not operate the machinery until it is fixed to ensure prevention of injury. Also, siding brakes involve the use of large metal sheeting which can cause injury to you or an employee if you do not first clear the area of personnel or debris before operating. Wear heavy duty gloves to prevent hand injury from sharp materials or siding knife. Gloves can also prevent the spread of oils in the skin to materials that are affected by them, like copper.

Using your Siding Brake

Before running any material into the brake, be sure to measure correctly and use a template beforehand to make sure of sizing without wasting expensive sheet metal material. After you’ve practiced on a cardboard template, be sure to mark your materials where they need cutting so that they are clearly visible before making cuts. This saves time by keeping you from having to remeasure and take the material in and out of the brake. Make sure you cut first, because if you want to perform any bending the material cannot be cut afterward.

If you find yourself needing help with using the brake or lifting and carrying sheet metal, do not hesitate to ask for help. Sheet metal can be hard to handle because of size and lack of density, so a second pair of hands may be useful and required.  

Selecting Your Siding Brake

Choosing the right siding brake depends on how large your sheet metal is and what exactly needs to be done. Industrial siding brakes are the largest of these kinds of equipment, but are heavy duty and usually only used by bigger companies for large jobs. Commercial siding brakes can be used in the home and for smaller jobs. Whatever type of siding brake you need, IndustrialLadder.com can provide you with the options that fit your budget, desires, and needs. We provide only the best in brands including Tapco, Van Mark, and Alum A Pole siding brakes. They can all be found on our website for direct ordering and shipping for your convenience.

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