How Many Types of Scaffolding in Construction

The construction industry needed Scaffolding to use for temporary support structures for workers and materials during the construction, maintenance and repair projects. Knowing the types of Scaffolding available can help you keep your workers safe and productive on the job site. In this blog, we will explore how many types of Scaffolding in construction exist and the specific uses of each type.

1. Single Scaffolding (Bricklayer Scaffolding)

A single scaffold (or a single set of bricklayers) is a single framework of standards, ledgers, and putlogs but linked one by one. This is a configuration known as ‘standards’ with the vertical parts being known as ‘standards’ and horizontal members, allowing things together across the standards (typically on the same plane) known as ‘ledgers.’ It is mainly used in brick masonry projects.

First, we firmly implant the vertical standards in the mud or the ground an inch after the wall longitude starts the work, developing it parallel to the wall. In the past, the standards were timber or bamboo, but these days, we use steel pipes because they are solid and durable.

Typically, standards are spaced 1.2 meters from walls, and standards are positioned 2 to 2.5 meters inessential between each standard connected to ledgers, vertically placed each 1.2 − 1.5m apart with ledgers of the same level.

The scaffold is attached to the wall by putting logs in the putlog through holes drilled with a distance interval of 1.2 – 1.5 meters between one another.

More support and stability for greater heights come through braces. To prevent the enjoining of the whole assembly, they are attached perpendicular to the standard. However, single Scaffolding was tremendously popular in the construction industry.

2. Double scaffolding (Independent Scaffolding)

Double Scaffolding is used for brickwork and masonry. The double scaffold has two rows of vertical posts in which the structure is more stable. If we were building work on buildings that were taller or involved more structurally demanding structures, then the type of Scaffolding used would be Scaffolding of this type. Double Scaffolding is a much safer thing for workers, especially for workers on high elevations as well as for masonry.

  

3. Cantilever Scaffolding

When the base area is too narrow and can’t support it, we need to use cantilever scaffolding: just a part will stand on the ground and hold another part that will be used for working. It is composed of a range of cantilevered beams protruding from the structure for workers with platforms. When the ground space is tiny, bridges are built by the use of cantilever scaffolding.

This type of Scaffolding is highly effective in certain construction situations, such as when the ground cannot bear vertical standards or is close to the wall area required for traffic, and it is also helpful if building work is carried out on a higher level. Another name for this type of scaffold is needle scaffolding, which is created from wood which is revolved around all sides to hold the structure.

Cantilever scaffolding based on single frame and double frame.

In order to satisfy the requirements for standards in the single frame type, several holes were drilled through the wall, and special needles were inserted into the holes to be held on chains. This type of needle guard has one needle inside a bottom frame that surrounds needles; the second needle is called a double frame.

4. Suspended Scaffolding

It is specially designed Scaffolding for construction, mainly at high elevations. Due to its cost-effectiveness, the working platform can be hung from above rather than the ground supports, especially where the height of the structure that needs painting is greater than 30 meters. This way, the platform is hung by wires, ropes, or chains on the roof, and the controlling lever can move the one upwards (up) and downwards (down).

Suspended scaffolds can be of three types:

• Fixed-Type Suspended Scaffolds –

Fixed-type suspended scaffolds are attached to a truss or roof structure via ropes, chains, or tubes by which they provide an elevated work area for workers.

• Pulley-powered Suspended Scaffolds:

Pulleys are used to move platforms, such as those used by window cleaners and building painters, up or down the side of a building.

• Winch-driven suspended scaffolds:

Scaffolds that are a bit heavier can be hung by wires from temporary outriggers. It is manipulated by external cranes, which are used to set the outriggers and control working height.

Nearly all types of suspended scaffolds are very adaptable and a practical option for most high-rise construction or restoration projects.

5. Ladder or Trestle scaffolding:

In this Scaffolding, we move either tripods or ladders so that these support the supporting platform. This form of Scaffolding is easy to move and ideal for light work. The primary use is for home work inside the house, “general room” work on a height up to 5 m (three legs and adjust in height).

6. Mobile Scaffolding:

This Scaffolding is fixed on the wheels or casters. We can thus drag it as and when needed. Scaffolds are available at the height of mobile Scaffolding and can be assembled quickly. This is useful in workplaces where worksite location cannot be fixed but must be frequently changed.

7. Tube and Clamp Scaffolding

This type is also one of the oldest forms of steel scaffolding, also called Tubular Scaffolding. They should contain tubes or clips or couplers. Easy assembly and disassembly have made this kind of Scaffolding very popular. But that’s not a big deal since, as you can see in the picture, this system gives us the freedom to place this vertical wherever needed. That’s to say, it scaffolds any odd shape. For all types of irregular buildings or inside the plants…etc., We generally give a Tube and clamp Scaffolding. This formwork structure is straightforward to erect. It consists of an assembly of vertical and horizontal tubes connected by right-angle clamps, sometimes called couplers.

8. System Scaffolding

At other times, we refer to it as modular Scaffolding. It could be a more comfy kind of Scaffolding, the same as tubular Scaffolding because the parts of these scaffoldings are prefabricated verticals and horizontals. To create the Scaffolding, we need to link these pieces in a structured way. The significant advantage of the modular system is that a skilled person can be employed without being employed because the connections are fixed and, therefore, straightforward. For this reason, it is used in construction activities to a great extent.

Systems scaffolding is the most commonly used type of Scaffolding in India and around the world. System scaffolding has similar structures but different manufacturers, which makes it a repeated structure type.

Systems scaffolding is a superset containing many different types of scaffoldings.

The common types of systems scaffolding include some of the following:-

• Cuplock Scaffolding
• Ring lock scaffold
• Kwik stage Scaffolding
• Staircase Tower

Cuplock Scaffolding System

This is a heavy-duty scaffolding and usual steel-made system. The Cuplock Scaffolding System is one of the most widely used modular scaffolding systems, not only in India but also around the world. This is due to its uncomplicated yet innovative lockup. Installing this Scaffolding is very simple, consumes less time, and is cost-effective. Hence, cuplock system scaffolding has been in high demand since its inception many years back.

The Cuplock system scaffolding is made up of four main components: standards, ledgers and transoms (horizontal elements), base plates, and other essential parts. Standard is commonly referred to as vertical membrane, and ledgers are called horizontal. The ledgers have a blade on each side as well. The “Standard” comes with a locking cup of 40cm, thereby a total of one cup per meter. The Bottom Cup and the Topcup form two parts of these Locking Cups, respectively.

The “standard” and the Ledgers come in various sizes. The outer horizontal ledgers are securely attached to the vertical “standards” at the locking cup connection. This means that the entire structure can be based on wiring together “standard” with other, lower-powered” Ledgers,” both vertically and horizontally.

Kwikstage Scaffolding System

This system is based on Cuplock Scaffolding. Standards are the key components, while ledgers consist of the primary jack and hook-on boards. The standards and ledgers function like vertical and horizontal tubes, similar to those used in the cup lock system. The only distinction is the locking system. In this case, instead of the cup in the cuplock system, V-shaped fittings are used at standards. These U-shaped fittings serve as the attachment points for the ledgers.

Staircase Tower

To enhance safety, the scaffolding staircase tower is used to access the central scaffolding platform instead of relying on a ladder. Similarly, a Staircase tower is used for two or three stairs only, and in the case of small works like fixing lights…etc., a staircase tower is helpful to work individually without its platform. This allows workers to easily take their tools and gear with them up the stairs, which is far safer than carrying a stack of equipment in your hands balanced on top of each other while balancing it at an angle climbing up ladders. Almost all system scaffold manufacturers have a set of components specifically for building stairs.

Moreover, it is beneficial to the emergency works if we require temporary access to reach any height of a building. We manufacture the broadest range of tower scaffold products. People are building it like the view in the picture, with steel stairs to access.

Ring Lock Scaffolding

Ring lock scaffolding refers to a versatile modular decking system that is fabricated with ring metal on the construction site. A rosette-style connector system enables components to connect in 360 degrees for a range of applications. The standards (the long, vertical components) are marked with ring rosettes about every 200–300 mm, where ledgers and transoms can be affixed. This means that it can be used to build faster without requiring added tools and is a durable design ideal for industrial use on more complex or large-scale construction projects. Ring lock scaffolding is used on an extensive range of work sites. It can be utilized both for industrial and domestic purposes as well.

9. Frame & Brace Scaffolding

This type of Scaffolding includes a combination of frames, braces, planks, and bases. This is a very lightweight scaffold that can be assembled in a very short time, even if you are not much of an estimator because all parts have been adjacent to each other. This system of Scaffolding is more sturdy than a system scaffold. Therefore, Scaffolding is not preferred by any significant project.

10. Mast Climbing Scaffolding

A mast climbing Scaffolding is almost the same as a suspended scaffold except that it has ways on both sides of the platforms. This system isn’t suspended from wires; instead, it has a stable mast anchored to the ground, allowing the scaffold to move up and down as needed.

This Scaffolding is essential, especially when the worker carries heavy objects. The mast climbing mechanism can also be raised to different levels for numerous floors of multi-story buildings. Many builders go with mast climbers because they require less space at the base of the structure than other options, which is beneficial for projects that need more room on the ground. It is mainly used in high-rise building construction.

11. Shoring system

Shoring systems are a temporary form of work used to support permanent structures such as buildings and bridges. The liquid concrete is kept in the formwork of this structure until it hardens enough to support its weight. Here, you can see shoring for the building.

12. Other Scaffolding Types

Apart from the main types of scaffolds described above, many other structures are available to reach and support working platforms at heights for different tasks. The tools work fine for a shorter period and even in an area that leads to either being powered or manually handled. Some of these include (but are not limited to) bucket trucks, boom lifts, scissor lifts, and boat/swain’s chairs with cages or skips. Although not powered, they are frequently used for higher-level access jobs. For scaffolding services in India or some parts of the world where we are providing them, feel free to write to us.

Conclusion.

In summary, Scaffolding of various kinds is used depending on what needs to be erected for a job in the construction industry. Each has unique attributes and specific applications, so the different types of formwork material should be known for utmost safety and optimal productivity in any construction project.

If we take into account how many types of Scaffolding are available, we can clearly see that there are many solutions for meeting various requirements. By understanding what these different types of Scaffolding are, you can make better decisions and, in turn, create a safer environment for the people who work on your projects. From your choice of materials to designing a scaffolding system, knowing the different types of equipment will significantly help you with all your construction projects.