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Surprising Projects That Require a Crane

Surprising Projects That Require a Crane

No matter where you live, numerous building projects are likely happening at any given time, from high-rise buildings to roads and shopping centers throughout suburbs and satellite towns. An essential part of that work is cranes, so much so that they have become a regular part of our cities' skylines and commutes.

Cranes are fascinatingly complex and valuable machines that have been helping humankind complete difficult and often complex tasks for millennia.

Projects You Might Not Realize You Could Use A Crane For

Cranes are often associated with large-scale construction projects like high-rise buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities. However, their versatility and lifting capacity make them invaluable for a variety of other projects that might not immediately come to mind. Mobile hydraulic cranes, especially, offer the best combination of power, precision, mobility, and versatility.

Here are several scenarios in which you might not realize you need a crane but where one could significantly enhance efficiency, safety, and outcomes.

1. Art And Monument Installation

Installing large art pieces and monuments is a complex task that often goes unnoticed in the realm of crane applications. 

Public art installations, statues, and monuments are typically heavy and require careful handling to avoid damage. Cranes provide the lifting capacity and precision needed to safely place these works of art. They are instrumental in urban settings where space is constrained and the risk of damage to surrounding infrastructure is high. 

Cranes can lift and position pieces with millimeter accuracy, ensuring the installation meets the artist's and planner's specifications.

2. Film And Television Production

In the entertainment industry, cranes play a crucial role in film and television production. They are used to lift and position cameras for aerial shots, move large set pieces, and even perform special effects. For instance, cranes can hoist lighting rigs, sound equipment, and large props, facilitating complex and dynamic scenes. 

Additionally, they can provide unique camera angles and perspectives that are otherwise difficult to achieve, enhancing the visual storytelling of a production. The use of cranes in film and television underscores their versatility and importance beyond traditional construction roles.

3. Temporary Structures And Event Setups

Setting up temporary structures for events such as festivals, concerts, and exhibitions often requires the use of cranes. Large tents, stages, lighting towers, and sound systems must be erected quickly and safely. Cranes can efficiently handle the heavy lifting and precise placement of these components, ensuring a smooth and timely setup. 

Moreover, in the aftermath of such events, cranes are essential for the swift and safe disassembly and removal of these structures, minimizing downtime and allowing for rapid site restoration.

4. Solar Panel Installation

With the growing emphasis on renewable energy, the installation of solar panels on large commercial buildings, warehouses, and even residential properties is becoming more common. 

Cranes are often needed to lift and position large solar panels or arrays onto rooftops. This is particularly important for large-scale solar farms with heavy panels that need to be installed at height. Using cranes in solar panel installation ensures that panels are placed quickly and safely, optimizing the efficiency of the installation process and reducing the risk of damage to the panels.

5. Demolition Projects

While cranes are often associated with construction, they are equally important in demolition projects. 

In controlled demolitions, cranes can be used to systematically deconstruct buildings, lifting and removing large debris safely and efficiently. This method reduces the risk of uncontrolled collapses and minimizes dust and noise pollution. Cranes also facilitate the recycling of materials by sorting and transporting recyclable debris to appropriate facilities.

6. Historical Building Restoration

Restoring historical buildings often requires careful handling of delicate and heavy materials. Cranes can lift and place large stones, beams, and other structural components with precision, ensuring the integrity of the building is maintained. 

They are also helpful for removing and replacing damaged sections of the building without causing further harm to the structure. In addition to their lifting capabilities, cranes can provide access to hard-to-reach areas of historical buildings, facilitating detailed restoration work and inspections.

7. Emergency And Disaster Response

In emergency and disaster response scenarios, cranes are invaluable for search and rescue operations, debris removal, and rebuilding efforts. After natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods, cranes can lift and remove large debris, allowing rescue teams to access trapped individuals and provide aid. 

They also play a crucial role in stabilizing damaged structures and facilitating the rapid construction of temporary shelters and infrastructure.

The Right Crane And Crane Rental Company For Your Project

Cranes are versatile tools that find applications in a wide array of projects beyond traditional large-scale construction.

The best tools for operating a crane safely are experience, communication, and proper training. With over 40 years of moving and using cranes, Parker’s Crane Service has the expertise you need for safe, reliable crane operations, no matter the job site or weather conditions. 

We pride ourselves on safety and our Zero Accident Philosophy and conduct many detailed safety measures when performing a job to ensure that no project carries unnecessary risk. We perform the following for every single job we take:

  • Pre-Lift Job Assessments
  • Daily Risk Assessments
  • On-Site Hazard Analysis
  • Routine Management Audits

With a fleet of well-maintained hydraulic truck cranes, we offer not only the best equipment but can also help with site installation, maintenance, and operation. Our crew is OSHA and MSHA-compliant to ensure your site and crew safety.

Parker's Crane provides quality crane rental, rigging, and heavy hauling services throughout the Carolinas and the East Coast. Contact us if you would like to discuss your needs and whether or not our services and equipment will work for your construction project. We provide free on-site quotes and evaluations.