When construction is undertaken, the building’s support is often compromised. If left unattended, this would make the area incredibly unsafe for both builders and anyone else in the surrounding area. This is why scaffolding is used. However, there are many different types of supportive structures and platforms, each with their own primary use and advantages. Keep reading to find out about the seven main types of scaffolding.
Type 1: Trestle
The first type of scaffolding is known as trestle. This type of support structure is most frequently used for inside work or jobs that need to be completed within a room. One of the most common uses for trestle structures are indoor painting. Generally, the maximum height for this configuration is about 5 meters. The reason for this is simply because they are used inside and therefore do not need to be as high as some other forms of support platform. Trestle working platforms are supported on movable ladders and tripods, making them easy to put up, take down and move.
Type 2: Steel
This support platform is made out of steel and are one of the most widely used structures in construction. Steel working structures are made up from a number of steel tubes that are then joined together by steel fittings, which are otherwise known as couplers. Steel scaffolding is considered as being one of the safest options for workers on construction sites, and this is one of the main reasons why it is so commonly used. Another advantage of this type of construction equipment is that it is very durable, and also fire resistant. It is also easy to assemble and disassemble making it convenient for shorter projects. One slight drawback of steel structures is that they are one of the most expensive options.
Type 3: Patented
Another form of scaffolding that is made from steel is patented. The two structures differ as patented are comprised of unique couplings and frames, and this is how they are assembled. Patented working platforms are one of the easiest and most convenient options as they are pre-assembled, so there is no need for assembly or disassembly after every use. Another benefit of this style of construction structure is that it is possible to be adjusted to suit any height. As a result of this, it makes it very easy for workers to reach the desired height in which the work needs to be completed.
Type 4: Suspended
Suspended scaffolding is slightly different from many other work structures, mainly due to how it is assembled. Unlike most other platforms that use the ground for stability, suspended structures are attached to rooftops. Hanging the working platform to a roof enables workers to easily lift and lower the platform. This is achieved through the use of ropes, chains and wires. This type of structure is not often used for construction work, and instead is used mostly for repair work. One of the most common uses for suspended structures is actually window cleaning on large commercial buildings.
Type 5: Kwikstage
Similar to steel and patented scaffolding, Kwikstage is also built from galvanized steel. Kwikstage is put together through using an interlocking system. This structure is known for its easy assembly as well as its strength and durability. Interestingly, Kwikstage can be built to reach any height. This means that unlike many other types of working platform, it doesn’t have a minimum or maximum height. As a result of this, it can be used on any project, regardless of the situation or size. Wherever any other type of working platform can be used, Kwikstage can be implemented as an alternative. For construction workers that assist with projects of both large and small scale, Kwikstage is an excellent option.
Type 6: Single
Another form of working structure is single scaffolding, this is also known as brick layers scaffolding due to the fact that it is often used for brick masonry. A single structure comprises of standards, putlogs and ledgers, which corresponds to the wall at a distance of around 1.2 meters. The distance between the standards is usually about 2 meters, and ledgers join these standards at an upward facing gap of about 1.5 meters. Putlogs, which are positioned at a space of about 1.5 meters, are then extended out from the gap staying in the wall extending to the ledgers.
Type 7: Double
Double platforms is often used for stone masonry jobs; therefore, it is known as masons scaffolding or sometimes as the independent structure. In stone walls, it is difficult to make holes for supporting putlogs, and as a result of this single structures would not be appropriate. Instead, two rows of support structure are made in order to create a robust, supportive system. Essentially, double is an alternative to single, and provides more support for the building.
