Trench struts have a similar structure to steel adjustable props, but are designed for supporting trench walls so are better suited for supporting vertical weights. They are secured with nails to provide a secure fixing in a horizontal stance.
What applications are they suited to?
The main function of a trench strut is to support the wall of a trench. However, they can also be used in other building or DIY construction as they can be used horizontally, which a regular steel adjustable prop cannot.
For this reason, they are often used as a horizontal support in wall construction. A trench strut has a safe working load of 3 tonnes (472 stone) at any extension.
What sizes do they come in?
Closed
Open
No.0
310mm (12.2in)
470mm (18.5in)
No.1
470mm (18.5in)
680mm (26.7in)
No.2
680mm (26.7in)
1090mm (42.9in)
No.3
1010mm (39.7in)
1670mm (65.7in)
The base and head plate is 75mm x 75mm x 6mm (3in x 3in x 0.2in). It is clawed with two nail holes.
What are the advantages?
They are simple and easy to use
The thick steel construction means they are robust tools
They have no loose parts which could become broken or damaged
What are the disadvantages?
They can only be used horizontally and specifically made for trench work, making them less versatile than other props.