There are different types of scaffolding used in the construction industry. In this article, I will describe all the types of scaffolding used in the construction industry.
Scaffolding refers to a temporary structure made of wood, pipes, or poles that provides support to a building or other structure and allows construction workers to safely work at elevated heights.
Typically found at construction sites, scaffolding is constructed using timber and steel, and it serves as a platform for workers to maneuver while performing their tasks. A well-built scaffold should be strong, stable, and able to bear the weight of both workers and materials.
Table of Contents
Types Of Scaffolding
1. Single Scaffolding: Used for Brick
Single scaffolding is a popular type of scaffolding used primarily for brick masonry work. It comprises vertical supports called standards, which run parallel to a building or structure. Horizontal supports, called ledgers, are attached to the standards at an even vertical angle. The scaffolding is anchored using putlogs, which are holes in the building or structure.
2. Double Scaffolding: Perfect for Stone Masonry
Double scaffolding is used mainly for stone masonry because stone walls present challenges when trying to create holes for putlog anchoring. This type of scaffolding comprises a double row of scaffolding that makes the entire support structure stronger. The first row sits parallel to the wall, while the other row sits away from the first row. Added putlog holes support the frames. Rakers and cross braces provide additional support to the scaffolding.
3. Cantilever Scaffolding: Perfect for Upper Level Construction
Cantilever scaffolding is used when the ground is strong enough to support standards and when a wall’s upper level is under construction. The standards receive support from needles, which are protrusions sticking out from a structure on which a platform sits. Workers remove the needles from holes in the structure. This type of scaffolding is often more unsteady than other types, so taking extra precautions might be helpful while constructing it.
4. Suspended Scaffolding: Perfect for Repairs and Maintenance
Suspended scaffolding comprises a platform suspended from a structure’s roof using wires and chains. A lever or electronic system allows the platform to raise and lower as needed. This type of scaffolding is ideal for tasks such as painting, window cleaning, and repairs.
5. Trestle Scaffolding: Perfect for Indoor and Outdoor Use
Trestle scaffolding comprises a platform that sits on top of a ladder with wheels for maneuverability. It is available in various sizes and is useful for both indoor and outdoor purposes. Repair positions, maintenance workers, warehouse workers, and painters regularly use trestle scaffolding.
6. Steel Scaffolding: Durable and Fire-Resistant
Steel scaffolding is made up of steel supports adhered together with couplers. It is simple to construct and dismantle and is more durable, sturdier, and more fire-resistant than other types.
7. Patented Scaffolding: Secure and Height-Adjustable
Patented scaffolding benefits from a steel composition and comes equipped with special couplings that lock supports firmly together. The working platform sits on height-adjustable brackets.
8. Wooden and Bamboo Scaffolding: Flexible and Eco-Responsible
Wood and bamboo scaffolding are more common in Asia than anywhere else in the world. These scaffoldings are notable for their flexibility and eco-responsible nature. Technicians and proficient designers construct and move through layers and stories of bamboo scaffolding while working on structures.
9. Tube and Clamp Scaffolding: Easy to Assemble
Tube and clip scaffolding is a steel-based scaffolding that is easy to assemble. It simply requires connecting supports to form long pole runs and then standards and ledgers connected with clamps made specifically for these supports. This scaffolding is popular because you can move the ledgers wherever necessary and adapt its form to irregular and oddly shaped structures to reach several different locations.
10. Kwikstage Scaffolding: Adaptable to Commercial and Residential Projects
Kwikstage scaffolding is popular because it is adaptable to commercial and residential projects and is fairly easy to construct. It has a non-slip platform and double guard railing, making it safe for construction workers and reliable enough to place equipment upon. Galvanized steel comprises this scaffolding, allowing for sturdiness and a durable interlocking system.
