Exploring popular scaffolding frames used in construction

During building construction, no two structures are exactly similar. Some are built taller, wider and with more unique shapes than others. In order to support advanced construction projects, scaffolding becomes important for building the structure. Scaffolding provides a stable and highly functional platform for workers and their tools.

What will determine the usability of a scaffold is its frame. This is the outer most shell of the scaffold, the foundation upon which other structural elements are attached to. Frames vary widely among scaffolds, but the type used will determine how much access and flexibility workers have on the job. Some popular scaffolding frames include:

Bamboo frames

Bamboo frames and scaffolds are designed for lighter projects and flexible workers. The frame uses bamboo and wooden rods to create cross bracings and worker platforms. Flat panels of wood can typically be placed between the frames to create a surface for standing or placing tools.

Bamboo frames are not as stable as other scaffolds and should only be used for lighter building repairs in stable weather conditions.

Tube frames

Tube frames are steel scaffolds that consist of a series of tubes and clips. The tubes run vertically and horizontally to form the outer frame of the scaffold, after which clips are used to attach them together. This results in stable connections across horizontal and vertical rods.

The tube and clamp scaffolds are very stable and can be used to access high skyscrapers or to support larger loads. It is also easy to modify tube frames into different shapes in order to access bent or irregular buildings.

Braces

Braces form the outer shell of frame and brace scaffolding. Braces are actually lighter and more flexible to work with than the heavy steel panels from tube and clamp scaffolds. The braces will form the horizontal panels of the scaffold. Vertical frames, planks and bases are used to complete the structure and provide support for workers and equipment.

Braces are one of the most popular scaffolds because of how easily they can be modified with planks and bases in order to add multiple support surfaces.

Mast frames

For construction work on tall buildings, mast frames are the best for use. They consist of long fixed masses that extend to great heights on the side of a building.

The mast is adjustable in height and can be easily attached to a building in order to reach very high floors. Supporting planks for workers and equipment can also be strategically attached.