Types of Scaffolding

In this blog, we will explain the concept of scaffolding and explore the various common types of scaffolding. In addition, we will also list relevant fittings to give you a comprehensive understanding of scaffolding.

 

Scaffolding serves as a temporary support system for construction, providing a safe platform for workers and materials. It can be constructed from timber or steel and varies based on the specific construction needs. The Scaffolding must be stable and robust enough to bear the weight of workers and equipment. Understanding different types of scaffolding is crucial for construction roles, as it ensures safety and efficiency.

In this blog, we will explain the concept of scaffolding and explore the various common types of scaffolding. In addition, we will also list relevant fittings to give you a comprehensive understanding of scaffolding.

 

What is scaffolding?

Scaffolding serves as a versatile and impermanent framework crafted from materials like wood, pipes, or poles. Its primary role is to provide support to a structure while offering a secure platform for construction personnel to operate at heightened levels safely. Typically found at construction sites, scaffolding is predominantly made using timber and steel components. A well-built scaffold is designed to be robust, ensuring stability and strength capable of bearing the weight of both workers and the construction materials they use.

 

Types of Scaffolding used in Construction:

 

Scaffolding stands as a crucial component in the majority of construction field. Its variations cater to distinct project requirements, each boasting its own attributes and advantages. Here are various types of scaffolding commonly encountered on construction sites:

 

1. Single scaffolding

Single scaffolding, also known as brick layer's scaffolding, comprises vertical standards or upright tubes and horizontal ledgers. These ledgers, acting as the horizontal supports, connect to the standards at a consistent vertical angle. This basic scaffold structure is primarily used for brick masonry work or tasks that demand minimal load-bearing capacity. It provides a platform for workers and materials, ensuring a safe and accessible working environment during construction or maintenance activities.

 

2. Double scaffolding

Double scaffolding, commonly referred to as mason's scaffolding, is specifically utilized for stone masonry work. It earns its name due to the challenges encountered when attempting to anchor wooden poles into stone walls. To reinforce the entire support structure, two rows of scaffolding are erected. One row parallels the wall, while the other stands away from the first. Putlog holes are introduced to support the framework. Rakers and braces are added to provide additional support to the scaffold, enhancing its stability and reliability for stone-related tasks.

 

4. Cantilever Scaffolding

Cantilever scaffolding is a preferred choice for construction when the ground is sufficiently robust to uphold the standards and when the upper levels of a wall are being constructed. The standards, serving as the vertical supports, are reinforced by needles—protruding structures extending from the building, providing the foundation for the platform. Workers carefully extract these needles from pre-drilled holes in the structure, allowing for the placement of the scaffold. Due to its design, this scaffolding type can be more precarious compared to other variations, necessitating additional safety measures and meticulous attention during its assembly. The inherent instability prompts workers to exercise caution and implement safety protocols to ensure a secure and reliable working environment.

 

5. Suspended scaffolding

Suspended scaffolding involves a working platform suspended from a structure's roof using wire ropes, chains, or similar materials. Its unique design allows for adjustable height, enabling it to be raised or lowered to the desired level for various tasks. This versatile scaffold configuration finds application in repair works, pointing, painting, and similar activities that demand access to elevated areas. Its ability to be maneuvered to different heights provides workers with flexibility, making it an ideal choice for tasks requiring access to different levels of a building or structure. The suspended scaffolding's adaptability and mobility make it a practical solution for diverse maintenance and renovation projects across construction sites.

 

6. Trestle scaffolding

Trestle scaffolding comprises a platform positioned atop a ladder equipped with wheels, allowing for easy mobility and adjustment. Its adaptable nature is evident in the varying sizes available, catering to different project requirements both indoors and outdoors. This versatile scaffold type finds frequent utilization by repair technicians, maintenance crews, warehouse personnel, and painters. Its design offers a convenient and stable elevated workspace, making it a practical choice for tasks that require accessibility to elevated positions. Whether for indoor maintenance in factories or outdoor painting projects, trestle scaffolding provides a secure and easily maneuverable platform, facilitating efficient and safe work environments for a range of professionals across different industries.

 

7. Steel scaffolding

Steel scaffolding, comprised of steel raw material (like metal planks) fastened by couplers or fittings, offers straightforward assembly and disassembly. Its robustness, longevity, and superior fire resistance make it a preferred choice, despite being costlier, due to the heightened safety it provides to workers. Consequently, it finds widespread use in current times.

 

8. Kwikstage scaffolding

Kwikstage Scaffolding is a modular scaffold system with stars on verticals and pressed wedge locks on horizontals. Kwikstage scaffolding is popular because it is suitable for both commercial and residential projects and is fairly easy to construct. Made from galvanized steel, this scaffolding features a sturdy and durable interlocking system. The system can also be customized and adjusted to any height.

 

Types of scaffold fittings

 

90-degree Coupler (Double Coupler)

Swivel Coupler

Sleeve Coupler(Joint Box)

Fixed Beam Girder Coupler

Swivel Beam Clamps

Putlog Coupler(Single Coupler)

Board Retaining Coupler(BRC)

Limpet Clamps(Board Clamp)

Inner Joint Pins

Ladder Clamps (Forged, Pressed Type)

Toe Board Clamp