Different Scaffolding Systems Explained

7 April 2022
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Working at heights poses significant safety risks to the workers. From construction to repairs and maintenance work like painting and window cleaning, you need a platform that keeps your workers safe when working at heights while giving them easy access to high-to-reach areas of your building. Scaffolding or scaffolds are some of the most effective solutions for such projects. They are temporary structures made from a wide range of materials like steel, aluminium, or wood that function as safety platforms for people working at heights. The ideal scaffolding for your projects should be sturdy and stable. However, scaffolding systems come in different types because of unique project needs. Here is a quick look into the different scaffolding systems available.

Single Scaffolding

Single scaffolds are the primary options available. They feature a wide range of standard scaffolding components, including the standards or vertical posts, ledgers (horizontal members running parallel to your building's wall), putlogs (horizontal members that attach to the building's wall), braces, the scaffold platform, guardrails, and toe boards, among others. As the name implies, these scaffolds feature a single framework of standards supported by the other components. They are ideal for construction work, particularly brickwork masonry.

Double Scaffolding

If you are looking for a more robust option than single scaffolding, go for double scaffolding. Double scaffolding has a dual framework of standards for better support and stability, unlike its single counterpart. Like single scaffolding, double scaffolding is also suitable for construction works. However, it is highly sought-after for stone masonry because making holes in a stone wall for putlogs is typically challenging. Therefore, an extra row of standards is required to provide the much-needed support to the structure.

Suspended Scaffolding

Will you be working on considerably tall structures? Erecting standard scaffolds may not be practical for such applications. Consider suspended scaffolding instead. As the name implies, instead of being erected on the ground, these scaffolds are hung from overhead structures like roofs with chains or wire ropes that can be lowered or raised as needed. They are ideal for window cleaning, painting, and repair works.

Trestle Scaffolding

Consider this option if you are looking for scaffolding solutions for light-duty indoor work. They feature tripod-like portable ladders that enhance their mobility. The legs on these scaffolds are also typically adjustable for increased efficiency. In addition, erecting and dismantling trestle scaffolding doesn't usually require a licensed scaffolder. Generally, these scaffolds are perfect for indoor painting and repair work. On the downside, trestle scaffolds have limited usage because of their considerably low height limit. Look into scaffold services near you for more information.