The Hidden Costs of Threaded Rod: Time, Mess & Missed Deadlines

When it comes to suspension solutions in construction projects, the traditional choice is threaded rod and strut. It’s familiar, reliable and, on paper, relatively cheap. But in many projects, especially commercial fit-outs, where time and cost mean everything, there are several hidden costs that can hinder your project’s timeline, budget and client’s expectations.

At first glance, threaded rod may appear to be the safe, cheap choice. But it can present far more disadvantages than you think. The wrong choice of components can significantly impact a project’s success. So, let’s break down the real costs of traditional threaded rod and show how switching to Gripple’s suspension systems can transform your fit-out performance.

Demands More Time and Skilled Labour

As a fit-out contractor, tight margins, fast turnarounds and high-quality end results are key. While threaded rod may seem cost-effective initially, it often becomes a drain on labour and energy resources that ultimately drives up overall project costs.

The installation of threaded rod and strut isn’t a one-minute process; it’s time-consuming and requires skilled labour. It must be cut to length which is often estimated visually and then drilled, bracketed and fixed on site. This complex process involves multiple tools, which are typically used at height and under pressure to meet tight deadlines. These challenges can easily lead to delays and inconsistent quality due to the greater risk of human error. And the health and safety risks? Significant.

Now compare that to Gripple's suspension systems: no cutting, minimal tools, and no specialist training required. It’s a faster, safer and smarter approach for any fit-out contractor.

Creates Unnecessary Waste and Safety Risks

Threaded rod isn’t just slow, it’s also messy. Every installation produces piles of metal offcuts, dust and packaging waste. This isn’t just unsightly; it’s a major health and safety hazard. More debris means more risk and time needed to clean it up. Cutting, grinding and filing to achieve a finished look could all be avoided with our smarter solutions. Gripple’s suspension products offer a cleaner, safer alternative to threaded rod with no cutting, no grinding and no mess. Just safe and efficient suspension systems that keep your fit-out on track.

Presents Logistical Challenges

On many sites, especially in space-constrained areas like central London, just getting materials on site can be a battle. Threaded rod, typically supplied in lengths of up to three metres, can be bulky and awkward to transport and store. It often needs HGV delivery, more site handling, and dedicated space for storage and cutting.

Gripple’s lightweight suspension systems are the smart alternative: compact, courier-friendly and easy to handle, even in bulk. They arrive boxed and ready to install. It’s a practical solution that reduces project costs, improves consistency and makes better use of your time.

Sustainability Impact

Threaded rod is a high-carbon product. It’s made from large volumes of metal, often unbranded and imported from overseas. Factor in transport, onsite waste and energy-intensive installation, and it’s far from sustainable.

Gripple’s suspension systems are manufactured in the UK using significantly less raw material. They’re produced in a BREEAM Excellent-certified manufacturing facility in Sheffield, are lower in carbon and come with full Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) to help you demonstrate sustainability credentials to clients.

Threaded rod may appear to be budget-friendly, but when you consider labour, delays, carbon and logistics, it can end up being an expensive mistake. As mentioned, the right components can make or break a fit-out project. Choose Gripple and make the smart investment.

Read more about our Technical Services here.  Here you can book a free project consultation to see how Gripple can save you time, cut costs, and keep your project on budget.