The Specifications of Collapsible Bleachers

Collapsible bleachers were originally created to save space at sporting events, but have become widely used by schools, community centers and other organizations who sometimes require large amounts of seating but have limited storage space. Several major types of collapsible bleachers are available to choose from --- most of which provide the space savings in slightly different ways.

  1. Telescoping Bleachers

    • Telescoping bleachers provide the largest amount of seating with the smallest amount of storage. They are named for the way in which they retract; all of the rows retract one atop the other, so that when fully collapsed the bleachers fit straight, one atop the other, beneath the bleachers' top row. Telescoping bleachers are often used in gymnasiums. Telescoping bleachers come in some major sub-types.

    Wall-Attached Telescoping Bleachers

    • Wall-attached telescoping bleachers are usually between three and 15 rows high and fit onto the wall at their top row. They run around the sides of their space and are ideal for more permanent installations. They are the most commonly used type of telescopic bleachers.

    Recessed Telescopic Bleachers

    • Recessed telescopic bleachers are designed to fit beneath a balcony overhang when they are fully retracted.

    Reverse Fold Telescoping Bleachers

    • Reverse fold telescoping bleachers are designed to be retracted in the opposite direction as other types of telescoping bleachers, with the top row leading the way and the lower rolls coming out from lowest to highest.

    Tip and Roll Bleachers

    • Tip and roll bleachers have casters attached to the backsides of the beams that support their highest rows. When you flip these bleachers over, they move along on these casters. These types of bleachers usually come without handrails and only have a few rows.

    Collapsible Bleacher Materials

    • Collapsible bleachers can also be categorized based upon the types of materials from which they are constructed. The most common variation between types of collapsible bleachers in terms of materials is the material from which the seats are constructed. Collapsible bleacher seats can be built from plastic, aluminum or wood. Plastic seats can come in a wide variety of colors as well.

    Power-Operated Collapsible Bleachers

    • Collapsible bleachers also come with power-operated models, in which the bleachers can be retracted and rolled out through the use of a small motor. A small motor motivates the bleachers' runners.