Acrow Props also referred to as jack posts or shoring props, are designed to give construction teams the ability to safely support heavy overhead loads during the course of a building project.

As the name implies, these tools are used to prop up large objects like walls and fixtures as you continue to work on and around them. In this guide, you’ll learn the history of Acrow props as well as safety tips, available sizes, and how they’re utilized in the construction industry.

It’s important to note that construction props should only be used by licensed professionals, and this guide is more of an informational overview. Do not attempt to use Acrow props if you are not trained and licensed to do so.

A brief history of Acrow Props

Today’s props were invented to serve as effective replacements for the wooden props that were widely used up until the 1900s. Construction crews had to create custom wooden props using timber, and each prop was cut to specification, which meant that they were typically only used for one job. Furthermore, the wood was susceptible to fire and moisture exposure, giving each prop limited long-term usability.

In 1935, William de Vigier invented the first Acrow prop as a cost-efficient and long-lasting alternative to wooden props. By 1939, there were more than 40,000 Acrow props in use throughout the UK, as Vigier had received a number of large orders from McAlpine & Sons as well as other prominent companies in the industry.

Today, Acrow props can be found at most construction sites and are considered the lone standard for propping up load-bearing objects.