The 10 Different Scaffold System Types Used in Construction

Scaffold systems, used in construction, are temporary platforms to elevate, support the work crew, and aid the construction process.

It is an intricate framework of wooden platforms or pipes that maintain the structure properly. These systems allow workers access to heights, safety, attain better positions on walls, ceilings, windows & outer spaces; and enhance work efficiency. 

There are various types of scaffold systems used in construction works used for different purposes.

Below mentioned are the types of scaffolding used in construction

     1. Single scaffolding 

Also known as bricklayer scaffolding, incorporates the single framework of standards, ledgers, and putlogs which are connected together. 

These scaffold systems stand parallel to a wall by using standards i.e. vertical supports. The standards are attached to the ledger i.e. horizontal supports. 

For a framework of standards & ledgers to stay parallel to the wall, putlogs are connected with the hole in the wall made at a distance of 1.5 m to the ledger. It is most preferred in brick masonry works. 

     2. Double scaffolding

Also known as independent scaffolding, incorporates two rows of scaffolding, one at a distance of 20-30 cm from the wall, and another 1 m away from the preceding one. 

The putlogs are then placed which are supported by both frames. For additional support, rakers (are a type of tie that secures to a building) and cross braces (hold a part of the scaffolding system in a fixed position in relation to another) are provided. 

It is most preferred in stone masonry works, where making holes in the wall isn’t feasible.

     3. Cantilever scaffolding

Also known as needle scaffold, in which the standards are supported on a series of needles taken out through holes in the wall. 

Needles are protrusions sticking out from a structure on which a platform sits. The needles may eject from the wall (single frame type cantilever scaffolding) or from inside the floors via opening (double frame type cantilever scaffolding). 

It is employed in conditions where the ground does not have the capacity to support standards or when the upper part of the wall is under construction. 

     4. Suspended scaffolding

When the height is above 30 meters, the convenient way is to suspend the working platform from above the ground. 

An electronic system supports the working platform to raise and lower as per the needs. The wires or chains are also used to suspend the platform from the roof in some cases. 

Suspended scaffolding is often used in tasks like painting, cleaning, and repairing. 

     5. Trestle scaffolding

Also known as ladder scaffolding, the movable working platform is supported on movable tripods or ladders. It can be easily assembled & dismantled. It is used for indoor & outdoor purposes including repair, maintenance, warehouse services, and painting to a maximum height of 5 meters. 

     6. Steel scaffolding

Also known as tube & clamp scaffolding or tubular scaffolding it is a framework made of steel tubes fixed with steel couplers or fittings. It gives better strength, durability, and is fire resistant. It is easy to construct & dismantle. It is preferable for any structure building, even the odd-shaped ones, inside the plants, etc.  

     7. Patented scaffolding

These are ready-made scaffoldings made up of steel and are equipped with special couplings and frames. The working platform in this scaffold system is arranged on brackets that are adjustable at required levels.

     8. Cuplock system

It incorporates standards, ledgers, transom & base plate. The ledger has blades on both ends & standard has the cup locks throughout its length. 

The locking cups have two elements namely- the bottom cup and top cup which are connected to ledgers to form an entire scaffold system connected by standards and ledgers. 

It is preferable to facade scaffolds, birdcage structures, staircases, shoring structures, mobile towers, etc. 

     9. Kwikstage scaffolding

It incorporates standards, ledgers, basic jack, and hook-on boards. The locking system in Kwikstage scaffolding is – 

• The ledgers are secured by transoms in the V-shaped lock of standards
• It is adaptable to commercial and residential projects. 
• It has a non-slip platform, galvanized steel scaffolding materials, a durable interlocking system, and is customizable, making it more popular. 

     10. Staircase Tower Scaffolding

It comprises steel access stairs and is connected with cuplock scaffolding. It is best to access the main scaffolding platform for work with greater safety. Workers can carry their tools via a ladder. It is a scaffolding to reach high elevations of a building. 

With increasing construction lines, there is an increase in the demand for a scaffold system. 

AAIT scaffold is a leading scaffold companies in Houston. We provide the basic building blocks of scaffolds and readymade scaffolds to ease your construction work with utter safety. 

From scaffold tube clamps, ring lock systems, and cuplock systems, to providing aluminum scaffold planks; we are top scaffolding manufacturers and distributors; who are just a call away.