What is scaffolding: types, application, how to choose

Scaffolding is equipment designed for high-rise work. They consist of a frame in the form of connected pipes, rungs or ladders and decks on which workers stand. Scaffolds differ in design, weight and method of use.

Frame scaffolding

Frame scaffolding uses small diameter pipes and wooden decking. This reduces the weight of the structure. Advantages of frame scaffolding:

• Low cost of equipment due to the fact that less metal is used than in other structures.
• Quick assembly and disassembly due to the small number of elements. The lock for connecting scaffolding parts is simple and strong. The design is reliable and safe.

The main disadvantage of frame scaffolding is its low load capacity. The permissible weight per square meter should not exceed 200 kg. Therefore, they are more often used for restoration or finishing works outside buildings with the use of non-heavy materials. Also a peculiarity is that they can be installed only on a straight surface.

Wedge scaffolding

This is a sturdy construction that can withstand 500 kg per m². The frame of the wedge scaffolding is made of profiled pipes. It is equipped with planking made of thicker metal. Wedge scaffolding is used for various finishing works inside and outside the building. They can serve as a support-frame system for formwork and the basis for concert stages. They can be installed around objects of any shape.

The thickness of wedge scaffolding tubes is small. Thanks to this, the weight of the structure is reduced. The disadvantage of such equipment is that there is a limited possibility to adjust the height of the tier and the angle of rotation of the scaffolding.

Clamp scaffolding

The peculiarity of the design of this equipment is that it is assembled from pipes of equal diameter and connected with clamps. Clamp scaffolding is located near objects of any shape: rectangular, arched, round. They can be installed at height differences.

Clamp scaffolding is used for finishing works up to a height of 60 meters or at a lower height of 20 meters. They are convenient to store, as pipes of equal size and clamps take up little space.

Pin scaffolding

This design is characterized by high wall thickness of pipes. Because of this, its weight increases. However, it gives increased stability. Pin scaffolding is easy to assemble because it uses ledgers, posts and links with pins.

The disadvantage of this construction is that it can only be erected in a straight line along the facade. Because of the heavy weight, pin scaffolding is expensive, requiring transportation of a higher capacity for their delivery.

How to choose scaffolding

To choose the right scaffolding, pay attention to such characteristics:

• Mounting height.
• The load on the decking. Work at height requires lifting materials. Their expected weight is calculated. This is especially important when working with bricks or finishing the facade with stone.
• Type of construction work.
• The shape of the object near which the scaffolding will be installed.

If there is a height difference, the building has a round or other non-standard shape, wedge-shaped or pin scaffolding will be suitable. If the weight of materials is low and the height of the object is small, frame scaffolding is suitable. When high stability of the structure is required, pin scaffolding is used.