Category: Height services

Alp Star rope access technicians will quickly and safely perform such tree work:

• Removal of dangerous trees
• Cutting down a tree in sections
• Removal of dead branches
• Cutting mistletoe from trees
• Tree pruning

In order to perform tree work at height in a safe manner, our highly-skilled climbing arborists use industrial rope access techniques and specialty rigging equipment. If the scope of work is large, and the territory is enough for a mobile elevating work platform to drive in, we will consider alternative options to offer you the best tree removal service possible at the lowest cost.

If you need to remove a dead or hazardous tree in cemetery without damaging grave monuments and headstones, we will do this task very carefully for you.

If there is a danger of damaging your power lines by a tree, we will safely trim all offending branches.

If you have expensive ornamental plants growing around a dangerous tree, we will cut down a tree without any damage to the surroundings.

If dead branches can injure visitors of your restaurant or damage your gazebos, we will successfully tackle this challenge.

Go to Prices section to find out more about the cost of our services.

To get more detailed information, please contact us at
+380 67 258 2999 or e-mail us at alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

Please take the time to look over this page and get a better understanding of how we remove trees and what you can expect.

The cost of Alp Star tree climbing services depends on tree removal techniques, which can be roughly divided into four types:

Felling the entire tree. This freefall technique is used when there is no possibility to damage structures or other plants close to the tree. A notch also known as a wedge is cut to help direct the tree where to go. When the wood hits the ground, the trunk is cut into smaller sections (or into the Customer’s desired lengths).

Felling the entire tree using taglines. A climbing arborist ascends the tree and attaches two ropes to the top of it. Then, the arborist ascends another two trees close to the target one and attaches one pulley to each tree and passes ropes through them. Terminations of these ropes are lowered and attached to friction lowering devices at the base of the trunk. When the main trunk is secured, a notch is cut in the tree, and it falls at the angle to the ground by pulling taglines and does not hit the ground. Two ground workers control lowering devices and guide the tree to fall in the desired direction. When the tree is too heavy, before cutting it down, all limbs and branches are removed.

Cutting down a tree in sections without rigging. When there is no enough room to safely drop the entire tree (for example, any structures or lawn in the landing area), the tree must be taken apart in sections. A tree climber ascends the tree using a ladder, a throwline or climbing spurs/spikes. While climbing towards the top of the tree, all branches are cut leaving 20-30 cm stubs, which will be used as foot locking during descending the tree. Once the branches are clipped, the climbing arborist starts to cut up the trunk into pieces. The length of each piece is calculated based on a diameter of the trunk. If the size of the piece is miscalculated, when dropping down, it can injure a worker or hit the trunk creating additional danger for the cutter holding a running chainsaw.

Cutting down a tree in sections using rigging techniques. It is the most labour intensive and dangerous removal method for a climbing arborist but the safest one for you. It is used when the tree is close to a building, swimming pool, fence or other structures. The tree climber ascends a near-by tree and attaches a pulley block for passing a rope through it. Using this rope, the climber descends the tree. One side of the rope is passes through a friction lowering device and the other side of the rope is taken by the arborist to the tree to be cut down. In addition to the secured rope, the tree climber takes one more rope to lift taglines after lowering the cut section to the ground. Each section is rigged with two ropes and smoothly lowered at the safe landing area.

Alp Star team of rope access professionals continually implement new practices and methods for removing trees and dead branches, cutting mistletoe from trees and pruning tree crowns in the best, safest, most efficient and cost effective way possible.

Aggressive environmental impact, intensive loads and influence of forces of nature cause the necessity of routine inspection of tall industrial structures and high-rise buildings. The inspection can be scheduled (e.g. determine a wear and tear rate of structures and mechanisms) and unscheduled (e.g. after earthquake or land subsidence and settlement during construction). Whatever the type of inspection (destructive or nondestructive testing), it is almost impossible to carry out it in a quality and safe manner without the help of subject matter specialists and experienced industrial rope access technicians.

Alp Star offers the following services:

• Inspection of chimneys and smokestacks (Kyiv and across Ukraine) with subsequent repairs;
• Inspection of tanks for petrochemical and agricultural industries;
• Inspection of gas and oil pipelines;
• Inspection of bridge crossings and flyovers or trestles;
• Inspection of façades of high-rise buildings, identification of critical condition of separate parts.

The main goal of technical surveys of tall structures is to diagnose and determine their wear and tear rate as well as to identify sources causing defects and deterioration. Based on the obtained data, our skilled rope access specialists will prepare recommendations how to rectify defects and to ensure the safe operation and use of the inspected structure.

The strength of concrete, reinforced concrete and steel structures (foundations, frames, walls, and slabs) can be measured by using destructive and nondestructive testing methods. The non-destructive testing methods allow measurement of the structural integrity and strength of a structure without affecting its performance and cross-section during removing physical samples from the structure. Some types of nondestructive tests include visual inspection (photofixation and measurement of abnormalities), mechanical tests (rebound hammer testing, shear test), ultrasonic testing (ultrasonic flaw detection, ultrasonic thickness testing and acoustic emission) and capillary (dye penetrant) testing.

If you want to get free-of-charge consultation or to invite our specialist, feel free to call us at +380 67 258 2999 or e-mail us at alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

By using nondestructive testing methods, our qualified abseilers can obtain (and provide to the Customer) a detailed information about the condition of the inspected structure. For example:

1. To measure the thickness and quality of anti-rust coating. To inspect a structure to detect any defects in anti-rust coating with subsequent repairs.
2. To inspect the quality of welds on tanks storing oil products or fertilizers, in gas pipelines or supporting steel structures of high-rise buildings.
3. To inspect the building façade, to identify its critical condition. If required, to remove hazardous building elements.
4. To inspect the condition of a lining on the inner surface of chimneys and stacks.
5. To inspect the condition of reinforced concrete pylons of bridges and highway overpasses.
6. To inspect fixing elements on various types of structures. To inspect the condition of fixing elements of cable stays, suspension cables, bolts, clamps, brackets, etc.
7. To inspect the roof for leakages.

According to the occupational safety and health regulations, welding is classified as hazardous work, and if such welding works are to be performed at height, welders should be top-class professionals with profound safety skills. Such rope access welders should meet a number of stringent requirements: to have at least a level 5 certificate in industrial rope access, an annual certificate evidencing welder qualification test, to undergo an annual medical examination as well as to have good skills needed for welding in unsupported or confined space.

Alp Star has highly skilled and certified rope access welders. Their reliable experience and expertise as well as good faith approach to the assigned tasks make our Company be able to perform the most complicated welding works at height: reinforcement of steel structures, installation of advertising structures, replacement of damaged sections of pipelines, installation and dismantling of floor trusses, etc.

The estimation approach used to calculate the cost of welding works performed at height differs a little bit from standard ones. If an average steel structure manufacturing company equates the cost of works to the cost of materials, the cost of rope access welding works is estimated by taking the following considerations into account:

• the height at which welding works to be done;
• any preparatory arrangements (marking the surface by using theodolite, production of additional suspended platforms and anchors for assistant workers);
• type of metal profile (grade);
• complexity of structure;
• conditions in which materials to be lifted;
• dimensions of individual structural connections;
• requirements to joints;
• any anti-rust protection jobs.

In some cases, it is impossible to take into account all considerations due to some reasons, therefore, welding works will be invoiced on hourly or shift basis.

By hiring our experienced rope access welders, you will get the best quality to price ratio and reasonable duration of works. Please call us at +380 67 258 2999 or e-mail us at alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

Safe performance of welding works at height requires to take a wide range of safety measures and to carry out a host of preparatory works. Such measures can include not only regulatory and theoretical research, but also field (on-site) operations.

Rope access welding services are associated with particularly high risk, that’s why it is important to give special attention to occupational and fire safety briefings, sanitation and hygiene standards (for indoor welding). Unlike standard works at height, a welder should use steel chains as safety harness. Clothes of industrial rope access welders should be not only comfortable, but also thick to protect from burns. A working area below a welder is wrapped with a warning or barricade tape. The welding equipment and tools for work at height should be extremely lightweight, compact, reliable and efficient.

In many cases, to erect complex unit-forming and heavy elements of steel structures, it is necessary to use lifting pulley systems or to manufacture temporary suspended platforms for workers engaged in erection process but not in welding.

When there is a challenge to sharply limit the duration of welding works at height, Alp Star employees can train even average welders having no acrophobia (fear of heights) how to safely use rope access techniques.

In recent years, industrial rope access services have become highly demanded in production of films, video ads, TV commercials and shows as well as during musical and theatrical events, and exhibitions. Such high demand is caused by the fact that most of such events require a lot of light and sound fixtures as well as special effects props to be safely and securely fixed to the supporting beams of pavilions, studios, etc.

Alp Star rope access technicians are ready to quickly and safely perform the following types of works:

• Fixing of lifting mechanisms and pulley hoists;
• Setup of sound and lighting equipment following the Customer’s Terms of Reference;
• Production and installation of movie props;
• Erection of stages and scaffold towers for cameramen;
• Installation of backgrounds (scrims) and covering walls with textiles;
• Continuous rigging support of the production process (shifts);
• Installation of fall protection and fall prevention systems for actors.

Our professional rope access installation services have been engaged by such well-known Clients as:

• STB, Novyi Kanal and ICTV TV channels
• event agencies
• National Palace of Arts “Ukraina”, Palats Sportu (Palace of Sports), Expocenter of Ukraine (formerly known as VDNG (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy)) (Kyiv).

Alp Star would be happy to help you on a round-the-clock basis to quickly offer a tailored approach to manage your tasks effectively by engaging various multi-skilled specialists. Our experienced industrial abseilers are here to become a part of your team and ready to meet tight deadlines. We can render decisions and come up with creative ideas in non-standard situations.

To get more detailed information about our services, please contact us from 9.00 a.m. till 9.00 p.m. at +380 67 258 2999 or by e-mail: alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

As our real time rigging experience shows, working with film production companies and event agencies means to work frequently in a chaotic work environment and continuously changing conditions, when a lot of key decisions concerning setup of sound equipment, lights and props are taken on the fly. In such cases, it is of high importance to get the following questions answered by the Customer (or its representative):

• What should be installed? Weight of decorations, size of props, materials.
• Where? (location)
• How many? (quantity)
• When? (deadlines)
• With what services (contractors) should we communicate?

Only having these questions fully answered, we will be able to estimate the cost of works to set up props and decorations.

For a better understanding of our position, we will give you a stark example: Customer engaged us to cover walls and ceiling with textiles in a concert hall. At the first stage of negotiations, Customer communicated an area of 450 sq.m and a two-day deadline. During the work process, it turned out that producers changed the props layout at the stage, which caused cameramen positions to be also changed, and uncovered wall sections appeared in shot. This resulted in increase of the area up to 650 sq.m without extending deadlines, since all tickets had been sold, and nobody would shift the curtain time. And what is more, during preparation works, a fire safety inspector visited the film set, and it turned out that covering textiles were not properly fireproofed. Producer decided to simultaneously put textiles up and treat it with fire-resistant coating. This resulted that textiles have doubled their weight, and we had to quickly engage four more rope access technicians. As a result of not well planned work, one more moment have turned out: on the stage there is no enough space to rig sound and lighting equipment and to set up props and decorations, which resulted in erection of additional platforms for the equipment and to cover them with vinyl banner. The deadlines remained yet unchanged. When all works have been performed by 95%, audio engineers reported that vinyl banner would distort sound and it should be replaced with special acoustically transparent fabric. So, absence of a clear work performance plan, and uncoordinated actions have resulted in increase of the scope of installation works by 4 times, and our rope access technicians had to work during 48 hours without sleeping. Could you guess what invoice was issued to Customer?

Right you are! The invoice was fair, i.e. four times higher than the initial one.

It is hard to imagine a modern world without metals. Almost 50% of load-bearing structures in construction of high-rise buildings, plants, bridges, oil storage facilities and gas pipelines is made of steel. Sad to say, but in addition to a number of positive features, steel has a number of drawbacks. The main one is corrosion, i.e. rust. Under its influence, the service life of steel structures dramatically decreases.

Alp Star offers comprehensive solutions to problems caused by corrosion of steel structures:

• Steel structure cleaning (hand-tool cleaning, sandblasting, water jetting);
• Surface preparation for corrosion protection;
• Application of primers;
• Painting of steel structures for various purposes (manual and by using automated coating equipment).

Unfortunately, so far, there is no universal corrosion protection method. That’s why it is better to look to corrosion source, corrosion pattern, and rust grade. Depending on purpose of steel structure and environmental exposure effects, our experienced rope access specialists will select suitable protective coatings, define a proper number of coating layers, required intervals between application of layers, thickness of each individual layer and the whole coating.

Feel free to contact our specialists to get free-of-charge consultation or to hire our professional services at +380 67 258 2999 or by e-mail:   alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

Everything created has its own life time and is exposed to day-to-day wear and tear, and metal is no exception. While in use, steel structures are inevitably affected by rust and anti-corrosion coating failure. Therefore, an issue of structure protection and repainting will come up sooner and later.

Corrosion Protection (Kyiv). Rust protection and prevention mean a process of applying one or more layers of special organic or inorganic protective coatings to the surface of steel structures with the intent of inhibiting or preventing corrosion.

Painting and corrosion protection coating works are regulated by ISO 8501-1: Preparation of steel substrates before application of paints and related products. Visual assessment of surface cleanliness, GOST 12.03.005-75: Painting works. General safety requirements, and GOST 12.3.016-87: General safety requirements for corrosion protection.

The corrosion protection process is divided into the following steps:

• surface preparation (cleaning, degreasing);
• application of primer;
• application of paint.

On average, successful corrosion protection depends by 75% on proper, thorough preparation of surface and only by 25% on the quality of paint coats and their application methods. The main goal of surface preparation is to remove mill scale, rust and other contaminants.

There are 7 levels of surface preparation according to the ISO standard:

• ISO-St: Hand and power tool cleaning
• ISO-St2: Thorough hand and power tool cleaning
• ISO-St3: Very thorough hand and power tool cleaning
• ISO-Sa: Blast cleaning
• ISO-Sa1: Light blast cleaning
• ISO-Sa2 and ISO-Sa2,5: Thorough blast cleaning
• ISO-Sa3: Blast cleaning to visually clean steel

As a result of surface preparation by using hand-tool or blast cleaning, it is important to get an appropriate surface roughness levels, which will ensure a desired level of adhesion of paint coats to the steel structure. Surface roughness profile parameters are referred as Rz, Rt, Ra.

Depending on the surface preparation requirements, in addition to the above listed types of cleaning (power- or hand-tool cleaning, sandblasting), the following ones are also used:

• Water jetting cleaning: it is a process of cleaning a steel structure surface by a high-pressure water jet without dust generation.
• Wet blast cleaning: it is a process of cleaning a surface with water and abrasive agent.
• Thermo-abrasive blasting: it is similar to abrasive blasting, but differs by a high-velocity gas stream flow and its temperature. It is a technology of impact on a working surface by a high-temperature supersonic flow stream consisting of abrasive particles. The thermo-abrasive blasting ensures simultaneous de-dusting, degreasing and metal surface activation, that is why no additional surface treatment is required.
• Dry-ice blasting: it is a process of cleaning by using carbon dioxide. This method involves treating a surface with dry ice pellets accelerated in a pressurized air stream. By hitting a structure, pellets intensely cool it down, which, in its turn, makes a top layer of dirt crisp and fragile, reduces adhesion to the surface (of a steel structure). As a result, layers of dirt peel off from steel and are removed by high-pressure pellet stream.

Most commonly, modern paint coats are multi-layer systems, the main purpose of which is to create a long-lasting durable protection of steel structures against corrosion appearing due to exposure to various environmental factors. The tendency to use multi-layer protective coating is caused by a desire to obtain efficient corrosion protection of a steel structure and different functional features of each separate layer of paint.

Depending on the operational environment of a steel structure, corrosion protective systems can be of various types. But, notwithstanding this, in most cases, there are three main types of layer, namely primers, intermediate and finishing layers.

A primer is a first coat applied on a pre-treated steel surface. It has a quite good adhesion to structural steel and simultaneously ensures a desired level of gripping with the next paint coat.

Primers are selected depending on the operational environment of a steel structure and a type of paint. Primers can be of such types:

• Passivating
• Insulating
• Phosphating
• Protective
• Rust converters.

Passivating primer reduces the reactivity of a metal and makes the surface passive in terms of electrochemical oxidation, which stops corrosion.

Insulating primer prevents penetration of oxygen and moisture. It is frequently applied on ferrous metals.

Phosphating primer helps to make painting of a zinc coated surface, to which almost all paint coats have no enough adhesion, more easy.

Protective primer contains up to 80% of metal pigments (lead, zinc powder and magnesium-zinc alloy). A high-density impermeable film is formed due to corrosion, and it interacts with electrolyte of paint coat containing zinc powder.

Rust protector is applied when to clear a surface to be painted is rather difficult. It helps to remove a top loose coating.

The final step of corrosion protection is painting of a steel structure. In order to properly select a type of paint coats, it is necessary to consider a number of factors as follows:

• type of structural material;
• environmental conditions;
• specified life span of structure;
• handling ability of paint application;
• requirements to exterior appearance;
• ecological, sanitation and hygiene, and fire safety standards;
• cost-benefit assessment.

Method of paint coating application should correspond to their physico-chemical properties indicated in manufacturer’s specifications. There are roughly four application techniques, namely: brush, roller, pneumatic spraying and airless spraying.

Brush application is a low-efficient and slow application technique. However, this method is the most suitable for painting complicated structures as the use of spraying equipment is associated with a considerable loss of paint. Almost all thick-layer coatings (over 120 µm) should be applied by using airless spraying technique because brush application would fail to ensure a desired result. To get a desired thickness of coating by using brush, it can be necessary to repeat application of paint by brush several times.

Roller coating is suitable to paint large flat surfaces and it is more efficient than brush application. Roller is often used to apply decorative paints. But, just like with brush application, to get a uniform coating of desired thickness by using a roller is also rather difficult. It is necessary to carefully choose a type of a paint roller, length and thickness of nap.

Pneumatic (air) spraying is a fast and commonly used method of paint application. Coating material is mixed with low-pressure air and sprayed onto the surface. The equipment for such techniques is budget-friendly and easy to operate, but to achieve a uniform spraying and a flawless film of paint coating is rather challenging as it is important to use a proper ratio of air pressure, volume and flow stream of liquid. Such spray painting is associated with a loss of excessive quantities of paint due to its atomization in the air. Moreover, this application technique is impossible to use to apply high-solid paints for thick-layer coatings.

Airless spraying is a method where paint is not mixed with air but propelled at very high pressure through nozzles. The main advantages of this application technique are the following: 1) it is possible to coat steel structures with thick-layer high-solid paints without reducing or thinning the paint; 2) higher output; 3) low loss of coating material.

When applying anti-corrosion coatings, it is required to consider the following important factors:

• paint temperature;
• weather conditions;
• surface temperature.

Paint and coating application cannot be performed:

• in case of very humid environment or mist or when precipitations are forecasted;
• in case the ambient temperature is below the temperature required for paints to dry or the temperature limit indicated in specifications;
• if there is condensation of the metal substrate or condensation can occur during initial drying;
• on wet or ice-coated structures.

Often, residents of high-rise buildings need to lift large-sized cargo into their apartment, which does not pass through the doorway, elevator or flight of stairs. In this case, we can offer you to solve this problem with the help of special climbing equipment and rigging.

Our “Alp Star” team provides the following services:

• Lifting jacuzzi and plastic pools;
• Lifting porcelain stoneware and large format tiles;
• Lifting sofas and other furniture to a height;
• Lifting double-glazed windows and architectural glass;
• Raising countertops through the window;
• Lifting air conditioners and split systems;
• Rigging of metal structures, trusses, beams, screws;
• Rigging of industrial equipment, machine tools, presses;
• Lifting window frames and profiles to a height.

• This is more mobile and faster than using heavy winches and cables. Hanging a rope hoist usually takes no more than 2 hours.
• This is cheaper than using aerial platforms or cranes, which cannot always reach the desired floor.
• Roofing and facade remain undamaged.
• Possibility of manipulation along complex trajectories – placing the load under the eaves, behind the ventilation shafts and bypassing the air conditioners.
• Safety of cargo and people. The work is carried out using only certified equipment, which, according to passport data, is designed for a weight of 2 to 5 tons. Except for the main ropes and lifting hoist, in most cases, the cargo is insured additionally.

Prompt and safe lifting of cargo to a height (Kyiv) – answers to all your questions by phone
(067) 25-82-999 or by e-mail: alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

First of all, let’s divide the entire process into the following steps:

• Familiarization of our specialist with the object (building), cargo and lifting conditions;
• Proper preparation (packaging) of the item to be lifted;
• Preparation of the route for the cargo movement (implemented if necessary):
  • Production of brackets or other metal structures for safe lifting;
  • Railings dismantling on entryways;
  • Window frame dismantling or window opening widening.
• Preparation of a chain hoist system and / or railings for lifting loads to a height;
• Correct fastening;
• Lifting zone fencing;
• Hanging railings for steeplejacks in order to accompany the cargo;
• Lifting the load directly into the apartment or onto the terrace;
• Dismantling of all auxiliary structures (if any).

At the familiarization stage, our specialist measures the height of the building, the characteristics of the object – dimensions, weight, fragility. In cases where the glass is raised, we strongly recommend that the Customer sand the edges. We also find out the type of the roof, the presence of “points” for reliable fastening of the railing, the measurement of window openings, elevators and flights of stairs (in cases where the apartment has 2 or more floors). At this stage (if necessary), all approvals are carried out with the balance holder of the building (Housing Office, Associations of Co-owners of Apartment Buildings), maintenance and labor protection engineers.

The item packaging is determined by its nature. Furniture, musical instruments, jacuzzi, pools are most often brought in their original packaging. In order not to damage the cargo, we usually recommend that the Customer make sure that the packaging is secure, and it would be better, if the Customer sends us a photo. This way we can prepare and, by the time of lifting the cargo, we can pack the item. With glass lifting  to a height (double-glazed windows or glass partitions), the situation is somewhat more complicated! Firstly, we strongly recommend that the Client orders glass with ground edges – only in this case we can take responsibility for its integrity. Secondly, for manipulations with large-sized glass (from 1.5x2m), “cassette-cases” are pre-made from the board; they ensure its safety when lifting the cargo to the floor. Thirdly, the lifting process must be accompanied by steeplejacks in order to avoid hitting the glass cassette against air conditioners, cornices, walls or other obstacles. Fourthly, the moment of passage of the cassette with glass into the opening must be accompanied by a large number of “hands” in order to avoid the cassette inflection through the window sill or other relief.

Preparation of the route for oversized cargo  lifting to the apartment (Kyiv) should be carried out no less carefully than other stages. If the roof is made in such a way that there are no reliable points for fastening cables on it, then such points have to be created using metal or chemical anchors. It is also possible to temporarily dismantle the roofing (slate or metal tiles) and fasten it to the truss system. In cases where the load needs to be lifted onto a terrace or into a dome, above which there is nothing, it is necessary to make a metal welded structure from channels and attach a chain hoist or other lifting mechanism to it. There are cases when it is impossible to lift the load either in the elevator or on the flight of stairs. In such situations, the object is lifted to the floor as close as possible (to the needed one), it is brought through the “cold transition” to the entryway, where the railing is cut off, and from the entryway it is brought into the apartment. Such cases include the lifting of cargo through the window. This is the last and most painful variant for the Client, but sometimes it is the only one. In such circumstances, the window frame is dismantled, and sometimes a part of the wall too. Often, a financial issue prompts such a decision – after all, if an expensive sofa that was being brought from Italy for six months has already been bought, then it is much cheaper to restore the window and slopes.Preparation of mechanisms for rigging usually takes no more than 1-2 hours. It is conditionally possible to divide these mechanisms into chain hoists (using blocks, cables and carbines) and mechanical winches (hoists). In 98% of cases, chain hoists are used. The elements that are used to create them are tested in strength laboratories and can withstand loads up to 50 kN (5000 kg). The use of climbing equipment is also due to its versatility – from the same elements it is possible to manufacture various configurations of lifting mechanisms, which allows you to move the load along complex trajectories.

Increased attention to securing the load is due, first of all, to the fact that at a height, the receivers should be able to conveniently and easily remove it from the lifting mechanism at the right angle to the opening.The lifting area is pre-fenced with signal tapes to avoid people and cars being in it. It is worth noting that the higher the building, the larger the safe zone should be. Also, the size of the zone can be influenced by the cargo type and weather conditions.

When lifting heavy or oversized loads along a complex trajectory, it is necessary for it to be accompanied by high-altitude climbers. Firstly, they will eliminate vibrations and hits of the load against the wall, and, secondly, they will prevent damage to air conditioners, satellite dishes and windows that might happen along in the way of lifting the load.

The lifting of the load to a height can be carried out in several stages. For example, if the position of an object needs to be changed right in the air. There are also frequent cases when not two or three objects have to be lifted in one trip. Naturally, such a process is much cheaper in relation to only one raised unit, but in such cases we often had to finish our work late at night, which was not always pleasant for the residents.

Dismantling is an integral part of the process. After all, everything that was mounted needs to be disassembled, and everything that was disassembled must be returned to its original position and handed over to the representative of the Housing Office in order to avoid possible conflicts between the participants in the process (Client, Balance Holder and Alp Star employees) in the future.

Surely, in this article we have given not all the options and cases for the production of this type of work. But in any case, we hope that this information will help you in the best possible way to understand the specifics and choose a qualified contractor.

Today, in modern high-rise construction, almost no building can do without the use of glazing on the facade. In their works, architects are increasingly designing panoramic glazing of the upper floors. The only trouble is that designers do not always think about the difficulties in implementing such ideas, especially when it comes to jumbo-format double-glazed windows. Such double-glazed windows have large dimensions and weight – it is not possible to lift them in an elevator or up a flight of stairs.

Our team has extensive experience in working with glass:

• lifting double-glazed windows and architectural glass along the facade;
• accompaniment of the work of window makers on the facade;
• dismantling and installation of wide format double-glazed windows;
• installation of glass visers and partitions;
• replacement of blind double-glazed windows with tilt-and-turn transoms;
• lifting and installation of armored double-glazed windows.

For work with double-glazed windows, we use reliable lifting and vacuum equipment from world-famous manufacturers such as “Wood’s Powr Grip” and “Kappel”.

We have in our arsenal our own lifts of various types:

• cable for climbing to the roof and terrace;
• cable for climbing the facade or flight of stairs;
• chain – for fine manipulations with heavy double-glazed windows.

• low cost of work compared to renting a large-tonnage truck crane;
• absence of all kinds of bureaucratic procedures for the installation of a truck crane or the installation of a facade cradle;
• efficiency of planning – in typical cases, we are able to turn around for lifting within a day from the moment of contacting us;
• complete safety of the load being lifted – in almost all cases, we manufacture casings for double-glazed windows to prevent damage to them.

The cost of work consists of a number of parameters: dimensions and weight, the shape of double-glazed windows (there are flat and radial), the architecture of the building and the height of the lifting, timing and other objective reasons.

To clarify the preliminary cost of double-glazed windows  lifting in Kyiv, please contact us by phone
(067) 25-82-999 or by mail alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

You can hire our rope access technicians to perform a variety of works at height.

By using safety and rigging equipment, Alp Star specialists can provide the following services:

• Erection of steel structures of any size and complexity (trusses, beams, arch systems);
• Lifting and installation of air-conditioning outdoor units (AC split systems);
• Installation of air ducts and ventilation vents;
• Installation of lightning protection systems (air-termination systems and down conductors);
• Lifting and installation of glass units (Kyiv);
• Installation of ventilated façade panels;
• Installation of outdoor security cameras;
• Installation of rainwater systems and snow guard systems;
• Installation of external window roller shutters;
• Mounting of antenna-feeder devices (mobile telecommunication equipment);
• Installation of satellite antennas;
• Laying cables and feeders at height;
• Balcony and bay window roof repairs;
• Replacement of weatherbars, canopies, drip edges and deflectors on building facades;
• Mounting of outdoor and decorative lighting systems;
• Installation of stage structures and decorations;
• Repairs and installation of snow melting and anti-icing systems;
• Installation of safe high level access and fall protection systems (guardrails and walkways).

Of course, this long list is not comprehensive as the full range of works, which are frequently required be done at height, is difficult to imagine. But we can definitely say that our broad experience, up-to-date and vast material and technical resources as well as unconventional approach to manage complex tasks will help to perform any types of installation and repair works at height (Kyiv).

If you want to invite our specialist or to hire our services, feel free to call us at +380 67 258 2999 or e-mail us at alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

In order to communicate effectively your needs, please read below just a few quick tips describing specific aspects of rope access services.

If you want to get a desired result, it is necessary to set a task in a proper way. The most reasonable way for both parties is to present relevant design documents or drawings of a structure or system to be installed as such documents usually contain all wind and snow loads, metal profile thickness and type, mounting specification, etc. But unfortunately, such technical documentation is often missing. Occasionally, this is caused by no reasonable need in developing design documents, but sometimes the main reason is simply to cut down expenses. Whatever the case, Alp Star industrial abseilers will help you to perform installation works in the best and most efficient way possible.

It is obviously that each type of installation works at height has its own specific features. To have a job done quickly, it is recommended to think out the following issues:

• Facility access rules and requirements (in case of restricted access or guarded facilities);
• Procedures for communication with various services at the Client’s facility (occupational safety and health service, quality assurance department, procurement and supply department);
• Instructions for storage of rope access and rigging equipment and tools for working at height;

Procedure for delivery and acceptance of works performed.

Erection of welded steel structures (Kyiv) such as roof supporting trusses, glazing support systems, steel arches for canopies and hangars, mounting structures for fire extinguishing and suppression systems.     Assembly of masts for antenna-feeder devices (telecommunication equipment). Assembly of steel structures for radio towers.

Installation and assemble of stage structures (Kyiv). Lifting and mounting of trusses for fixing light and sound fixtures in concert halls and cinemas. Installation of safety harness (fall protection equipment) for videographers and actors. Lifting and fixing of hoisting winches and pulley hoists. Screening of reflective foil insulation and reflecting barriers.

Lifting and installation of air-conditioning outdoor units and AC split systems. Rope access technicians can mount AC units both to blind walls and facades with windows and balconies. Block and tackle systems are used to lift and hold outdoor units during their installation. How to fix AC support brackets depends on the type of façade cladding, AC unit weight, and wind loads in certain region.

Outdoor lighting installation (Kyiv). Installation of mounting brackets for illumination systems, installation of light fixtures, connection of all devices to power mains. In such case a specialist is required not only to know how to work safely at height, but also to be experienced in electrical engineering.

Installation of metal drip caps, flashing and canopies (Kyiv). Production and installation of elements made of zinc coated or painted steel sheet with thickness of 0.45-0.55 mm and over. Water leak and ingress rectification of roofs, balconies, bay windows. Installation of flashing with thermal insulation. Installation of decorative weatherbars. Installation of external window sills.

Installation of snow guard systems (Kyiv). Arrangement of rainwater systems. Installation of gutters. Rope access installation of snow melting and anti-icing systems (Kyiv). Installation of air-termination systems and down conductors at high-rise buildings and structures.

One of the main conditions for comfort in an apartment or an office is its temperature. It is very important that the apartment is cool in the summer heat, and today this is very simply solved by installing an air conditioner. But not always the installation of an external unit can be carried out by installers alone. Often it is necessary to move the outdoor unit to an inaccessible place on the facade, and then the Customer needs the help of industrial alpinists.

• arrangement of the route from the indoor unit (drilling a hole, laying the power cable and pipes);
• dismantling of thermal insulation or other facade cladding;

• installation of metal brackets and a decorative basket;
• lifting and installation of the outdoor unit in the design position;
• flaring of pipes, switching and filling the system with freon.

• we have special tools available;
• in our team there are climbers with experience in such kind of work;
• with a large weight / size of the block, we are able to organize a chain hoist for its lifting;
• we are able to organize safe and reliable installation in the most inaccessible places of the facade.

Depending on the size and weight, the price for installation and lifting of the unit may vary. Facade cladding can also affect the final cost – it can be tiles, thermal insulation made of mineral wool or a ventilated hinged facade. The need to pre-install a basket or its absence.

To clarify the preliminary cost of work, please contact us by phone
(067) 25-82-999 or by mail alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

The distinguishing feature of outdoor advertising installation in Kyiv is a rather frequent use of non-standard structures mounted at high heights or in hard-to-reach areas.

Alp Star provides all types of services in installation of advertising signage of various configurations, at any height. By using industrial rope access techniques, you will definitely get your advertising media installed and dismantled in a safe, fast and cost-effective way!

• Installation of banners (wallscapes, building wraps). Production of frames, mounting of illumination systems, banner cleaning;
• Installation of light boxes. Changing lamps, repairs, dismantling;
• Installation of light fixtures;
• Installation of dimensional letters on façade or rooftop;
• Installation of over-the-street banners, signs, flags, posters;
• Decorating façade or shop windows with self-adhesive film (e.g. Oracal film);
• Printing of wallscapes (banners) at affordable prices.

If you want to get qualified advice on technical and organizational issues as well as to get a more accurate cost estimate and duration of works, it is highly recommended to invite our specialist. The visit and consultation are FREE OF CHARGE.

Alp Star has all relevant approvals and permits authorizing work at height. We guarantee the promptness and high quality of outdoor advertising installation services provided by our rope access company in Kyiv and other cities.

If you want to invite our specialist or to hire our services, feel free to call us at +380 67 258 2999 or e-mail us at alpstar.kiev@gmail.com

Just like any type of work, installation of outdoor advertising structures has its own ins and outs. If you want to get an eye-catching and durable signage solution, we highly recommend to read the information below.

Wallscapes, Building Wraps, Vinyl Banners
(To read about another types of advertising media, go to ARTICLES section)

This type of advertising is rather popular in big metropolitan cities as being placed in landmark locations (often at big heights), it helps to attract a maximum number of target customers. In addition to the height of sign installation, it is also important to consider visibility and viewing angle of wallscapes. A rule of thumb states that in Kyiv banners are commonly placed on buildings facing big squares and wide avenues.

The next step is obtaining all the necessary government approvals as well as consents from an owner and/or residents of the building. At this step, you will be requested to provide a design of signage structure and image layout. When designing the structure, it is necessary to carefully consider a type of banner material and especially a frame because due to a large area and location of a banner, the structure is subjected to strong wind pressures (this parameter differs in each geographic area). Miscalculations or improper installation can result not only in the loss of the entire structure, but also in substantial damage to the building and cars as well as injure pedestrians and visitors.

Upon all calculations made and all documents in hand, it’s time to go ahead with performance of works. Works can be divided into two parts: preparatory works (banner printing, production of support brackets for banner frame and lighting) and banner installation works.

Banner Material. In case of medium size banners, vinyl is commonly used for printing banner image (photo 4). But in case of large banners, mesh banner material is often used in order to reduce loads on the banner structure. Moreover, mesh weave is lightweight, allowing a quick and easy installation, which helps you to save your money. In addition, it is a cost-effective signage solution thanks to using a lightweight steel structure as mesh material creates smaller loads on it. Like vinyl fabric, PVC mesh banner material has different thickness (weight kg/sq.m). The greater the thickness, the more durable, and, consequently, the more expensive the material is. To properly choose the right thickness of banner material, it is necessary to know its expected lifespan.

Banner Fixings. To fix the banner to its frame or a wall, once printed, grommets (eyelets) (photo 1) or pole pockets (photo 2) are placed around the perimeter of the sign. Grommets are the most cost-efficient, but less durable, type of fixings. And grommets fail often to withstand high wind loads.

Based on our proven record of sign installation experience, there are three types of banner fixings in Kyiv, namely:

Let’s consider each of these fixings in detail.

Grommets (eyelets). It is recommended to use this method for fixing banners with area of not over 40 sq.m and only directly against the wall. When delivering the banner by the manufacturer, it is necessary to check the quality of installation of grommets (photo 3). Also, the attention should be drawn to the inner hole diameter, which should not be less than the diameter of screw anchors.

Wall mount bracket system. This method of fixing is the most reliable one. Steel brackets are affixed to screw anchors or bolts fixed to the wall around the intended perimeter of banner material. An interval of brackets is calculated based on the structure weight or façade features. It is important to know that only plastic or chemical resin anchors can be used for brick walls, and metal anchors should be used for concrete walls. A special hole is made on the bracket end during fabrication. Metal tension screw with hook is inserted into this hole for stretching the banner material around the perimeter. The tension screw is hooked to a profile tube that is inserted into the pole pocket around the banner perimeter. Thanks to this tube, wind load is uniformly distributed throughout the entire banner area.

Slings are used in very rare cases. This method is reliable but rather labour-intensive. Very often, this method is applied when the building’s owner prohibits to drill holes in the façade to fix brackets. In such case, metal steel rope sling of a proper diameter is inserted into the pole pocket and stretched to the sides.

In addition to installation of advertising banners and signage, Alp Star rope access technicians are hired to perform the following works:

• Banner dismantling (Kyiv);
• Advertising banner and signage removal in Kyiv and other cities of Ukraine;
• Fabric or vinyl mesh banner cleaning;
• Advertising signage cleaning;
• Repairing dimensional letters (Kyiv);
• Light boxes and signboard repairs (Kyiv);
• Outdoor lighting installation;
• Installation of external building illumination systems(Kyiv);
• Cable laying at height;
• Roof sign installation (Kyiv).