Self Supporting Tower - Installation - Wireless Estimator

Installation Information

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Self Supporting Towers

The ideal construction environment for erection of a 300’ self supporting tower project, as pictured here, would be to have acres of an asphalted shake out and assembly area, a competitively priced 165-ton hydro crane within shouting distance, and on-site power coupled with no missing materials and two weeks of perfect weather and crew attendance.

Unfortunately, that is not even close to the norm. A self supporting tower is typically purchased to conform to a minimal lease area, with carrier BTS footprints vying for space. In suburban and rural areas, some tower owners are leasing adequate parcels, but to reduce their capital expenditures, are only clearing and fencing smaller compounds until additional tenant leases are signed, passing on the development cost to the carrier. Although cranes are available in most areas, taller tower heights can require the structure to be erected with a gin pole and hoist , a proficiency that not all erection firms may possess.

For larger self supporting towers, manufacturers often provide climbing provisions on each of the tower legs, step bolts being the most common. Since lighting fixtures and antennas may be distributed on any of the three tower legs, it must be practical to access each leg individually. Some designs provide for welded sections in the top 20’ to 80’.

There are multiple manufactured designs, each one having installation or shipping benefits, from tubular, solid and truss-style solid legs to back-to-back angles. When estimating your installation cost, identify whether the design will affect the total number of days budgeted. In example, an inexperienced crew erecting a back-to-back angle structure might take 5% to 10% longer to construct the tower.

Tower plumb variances An optical illusion oftentimes presents the image that an installed tower was not plumbed correctly. Specifications, however, allow the structure to be slightly out of plumb, but you wouldn’t notice it unless you were to use a transit.

As stated in TIA/EIA-222-F, the horizontal distance between the vertical centerlines at any two elevations shall not exceed .25 percent of the vertical distance between the twoelevations. Using that equation for a 200’ tower, .25 percent of 200’ is .5’ or 6”, allowing the structure to be off 6”. Therefore, a 400’ tower could be out of plumb 12” and a 100’ tower’s tolerance would be 3”.

The average default pricing provided is based upon erecting a self supporting tower contingent upon the entered height and type of tower. Erection pricing includes the installation of:

• One platform or a three-sectored mounting frame
• One waveguide ladder
• Climbing ladder or step bolts and fall arrest system
• Lighting system for a structure 200’ or more

Prices will vary throughout the country based upon site conditions, crew and crane availability, and the additional work contracted to the erection crew. Grounding and waveguide bridge installation as well as antenna and line installation are not included. 

Average crane expenses have been included in the pricing in additon to mobilization of 90 miles from the erection contractor's place of business.

 Budgetary Installation Pricing

 Self Supporting  Erection In "My Estimator" enter the height of SS tower

A  OSHA Instruction allows erectors to lift employees on the hoist line to their work stations at any location on a self supporting tower; however, there are strict guidelines that must be followed. Please view Hoisting Erectors .

Here are some frequently asked questions about guyed towers:

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What is a guyed tower?

A guyed tower is a tall structure used in various industries, such as telecommunications, broadcasting, and meteorology. It consists of a vertical mast or tower that is supported by one or more guy wires attached to anchor points located away from the tower. Guyed towers provide height and stability to support antennas, communication equipment, and other devices.

Why are guyed towers used instead of self-supporting towers?

Guyed towers are often used when there is a need for tall structures with relatively lower construction and maintenance costs compared to self-supporting towers. Guyed towers can reach greater heights because the guy wires provide additional stability and support. They are also more flexible, as they can accommodate larger and heavier loads.

How tall can guyed towers be?

Guyed towers can be constructed to reach very tall heights. The height of a guyed tower depends on various factors, including the purpose of the tower, the type of construction materials used, local regulations, and the specific engineering design. Guyed towers have been built to heights exceeding 2,000 feet (600 meters) in some cases.

Guyed Wire Wind Measurement Tower

What are the advantages of using guyed towers?

There are several advantages to using guyed towers:

• Cost-effective: Guyed towers are generally more economical to construct compared to self-supporting towers, especially for taller structures.

• Flexibility: Guyed towers can support heavier loads and are more adaptable to various antenna and equipment configurations.

• Stability: The guy wires provide excellent stability, allowing for taller tower heights and withstanding higher wind loads.

• Expandability: Guyed towers can be expanded or modified easily to accommodate additional equipment or antennas.

Are guyed towers safe during storms or high winds?

When designed and constructed properly, guyed towers are engineered to withstand high winds and storms. The guy wires and anchor points provide stability and help distribute the forces exerted on the tower during extreme weather conditions. However, it's important to ensure that guyed towers are regularly inspected and maintained to address any potential issues or deterioration that could compromise their structural integrity.

Can guyed towers be used for multiple purposes?

Yes, guyed towers are versatile structures that can support various types of equipment and antennas. They are commonly used for telecommunications, broadcasting, meteorological instruments, and even for wind turbines. The ability to support heavy loads and provide height makes guyed towers suitable for a wide range of applications.

Are guyed towers difficult to construct?

Constructing guyed towers requires specialized engineering knowledge and experience. It involves careful planning, site preparation, and adherence to safety regulations. Erecting guyed towers often involves using heavy machinery, such as cranes, to lift and install tower sections and tension the guy wires. It's crucial to work with experienced professionals who have expertise in tower construction to ensure a safe and successful installation.

How long does it take to construct a guyed tower?

The construction timeline for a guyed tower can vary depending on several factors, including the tower's height, complexity, site conditions, and weather conditions. Generally, the construction process, including site preparation, foundation construction, tower assembly, guy wire installation, and equipment installation, can take several weeks to months to complete.

Can guyed towers be relocated?

While guyed towers can be dismantled and relocated, it is a complex and costly process. Guyed towers are designed for specific locations, and relocating them requires careful planning, engineering assessment, and obtaining the necessary permits. Additionally, the anchor points for the guy wires need to be established at the new location. 

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