One of the most common sights in building construction and maintenance is the scaffolding. They are temporary structures used to give workers safe access as the building project goes higher.
They may all look the same to the untrained eye, but there are many types, and each one has an advantage depending on its application. Contractors also have the option to either buy it from construction suppliers or hire scaffolding from rental shops.
Single Scaffolding
The single scaffolding is one of the oldest methods in construction. It is commonly used for brick masonry, giving it a reputation as the brick layer’s scaffolding.
In the single scaffolding, the ledgers are approximately 1.2 meters away from the wall, and the standards are 2 to 2.5 meters apart. The distance between adjacent ledgers is 1.2 to 1.5 meters, the same distance between the putlogs that support the ledgers. These specifications are designed to provide sufficient support to the workers and their equipment.
Double Scaffolding
If the single type is the brick layer’s scaffolding, the double scaffolding is the stone mason’s best friend. Stones are much harder than bricks, making it difficult to make holes for putlogs. As a solution, two rows of ledgers are used for each level giving the structure enough stability to stand independently and bear the workers’ weight. The first row of scaffold ledgers is 20 to 30 cm away from the wall, while the second is one meter away. Cross braces and rakers are installed additionally for good measure.
Like the single scaffolding, this type is also available in many scaffolding rental companies.
Trestle Scaffolding
The trestle scaffolding is used for indoor construction projects that go up to five meters high such as ceiling repairs and repainting. It consists of a board or platform supported on two tripods. Wheels are sometimes installed at the bottom of the tripod legs to make the structure mobile.
Cantilever Scaffolding
Also known as needle scaffolding, this type uses standards supported on a series of needles pulled out from the wall. Vertical struts are used to support these needles and keep them from coming away from the wall. It is used when erecting a base structure on the ground is not possible, such as in places where foot traffic is heavy, or the ground is weak. The cantilever scaffolding is a bit more complex than the single or double type and requires various checks before and during installation.
Steel Scaffolding
As its name suggests, the steel scaffolding is made of steel tubes held together by standard couplers. It is suitable for applications where strength and durability are needed, capable of complying with the highest safety standards even in bigger construction projects. What is more, it is fireproof and easy to erect or disassemble. With its many benefits, it comes at a higher cost. Still, it remains one of the most popular scaffolding types sought by contractors from scaffolding rental companies or construction suppliers.
Patented Scaffolding
This type also uses steel tubes but are set by specialized couplings, brackets, and frames. Its scaffold materials are made ready to use once bought. The board or platform is supported by the brackets, which can be adjusted to the desired level.
Suspended Scaffolding
In this type of scaffolding, the board or platform is suspended from a support beam on the roof using ropes, chains, or wires. The height can be adjusted multiple times to meet the need or requirements. It is suitable for painting or repair works along the sidewalls of a building.
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