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A Guide to Purchasing Bleachers

Bleachers are so commonplace around sports fields and public events that we usually never give them a second thought. When the time comes to upgrade or replace these systems it can seem like a daunting task given the sheer variety of bleacher setups that are out there. However, taking the process one step at a time and learning the differences and pros and cons of the individual options turns what seems to be a complicated endeavor into a streamlined and surprisingly simple situation.

Quite possibly the most important (and what should be the first) step is deciding required capacity. Purchasing bleachers that are too large turns into a waste of space and money while not having enough seating space can be incredibly inconvenient to your guests. As a good estimating tool you can gauge the required size of a bleacher by taking how many people you need to seat and multiplying it by 1.5. This will give you to total amount (in feet) of seating space you will need.

After you’ve gauged your required size a few choices come in to play. Depending on the size Tip-N-Roll bleachers might be an option for you. These are fantastic for indoor purposes where a permanent setup isn’t a possibility. Using casters and wheels the Tip-N-Roll style of bleachers simply tip back onto their back end and can be wheel away when the seating isn’t needed.

Larger, portable options are also available if required. While the Tip-N-Roll models only go up to 3 rows there are towable options for larger setups. Almost any bleacher size can be constructed in a towable fashion giving you seating for hundreds of people without the dedicated space needed for a permanent arrangement.

If a permanent setup is what you’re interested then there are almost no limitations to your options. First and foremost, however, you should always check your local building codes to make sure of your required safety measures. In most states it is a requirement to have rear guardrails on any seating rows that are higher than 30″. In addition, your district may require ADA accessible inlets, isles or other safety additions. Both of these situations will require Code-Compliant bleacher arrangements to guarantee the required safety of your guests.

Low Rise Bleachers are another option available if you’re looking to fit as many guests into your bleacher arrangement as possible. The low rise series is designed with a shorter front row so the 4th row is only 30″ off the ground. This allows low rise bleachers to feature four rows at a height that is usually standard with three row systems. This is also ideal as it allows 4 rows of seating space below the required 30” height for guardrails (always double check this required height with your local codes).

The options of guardrails, double footboards, isles with handrails, low rise seats, Tip-N-Roll and ADA areas allow you to tailor your bleacher system to your particular needs and regulations.

Using a simple step by step process allows you to not only make purchasing your system a breeze but also guarantees you receive the perfect system for your own requirements. Simply factor seating capacity, portable or permanent needs then building codes and you’re on your way to having a bleacher system that’s perfectly manufactured for your venue.

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