3 Different Types Of Scaffolding Materials

Scaffolding is a commonly used structure in construction sites. These structures help the construction worker and licensed professional engineer to work on the outer parts of the building.

These scaffolding structures can also be used to provide access to workers to remote or parts of the construction sites that are fragile.

Scaffolding structures comprise several individual structures referred to as scaffold. As these structures are used in construction sites by humans, it is necessary to ensure that the materials used in their manufacture are reliable and durable.

Different types of materials are used for making these scaffolding structures. These materials are as follows:

Steel

The use of steel scaffolding was started around 60 years ago. As steel is considered to have high strength and durability, it is commonly used in making scaffolding structures.

Steel structures can withstand high rates of pressure and resist any form of damage caused due to pressure.

Scaffolding made from steel is also easy to handle and maintain. The entire structure can be set up within a short amount of time and can also be dismantled easily whenever it may be required.

Using steel to make scaffolding structures is also a sustainable option as it is derived from industries rather than cutting down trees. These structures are can also be reused as they are long-lasting.

Aluminium

Unlike steel scaffolding structures, aluminium scaffolding structures are lighter. As a result, these structures can quickly be mobilised and carried to different locations.

By making scaffolding structures out of treated aluminium, additional resistance to natural weathering conditions like rusting can be prevented.

Aluminium scaffolding structures also offer greater mobility and stability without causing any hazard. While steel scaffolding could be dangerous when suspended, aluminium scaffolding is safer due to its lighter weight.

As a result, these scaffolding structures can easily be handled by workers.

Wood

Wood has been used as a scaffolding material for around 100 years. Due to its easy procurement and vast availability, it was one of the most commonly used materials to make scaffolding structures.

Commonly used wood used to make scaffolding is timber and pine. The use of wood is a cheaper option than using aluminium or steel as it is naturally available while steel and aluminium have to be manufactured in industries.

Many grades of wood are available in the market. Based on strength and durability requirements, different qualities of wood can be chosen to make scaffolding structures.

A wooden scaffold can be easily customised based on height and length requirements. These structures also have low maintenance costs.

There are also many disadvantages of using wood as a scaffolding material. The procurement of wood contributes significantly to deforestation. Wood has higher water absorption rates. This absorption of water affects the strength of the scaffolding structure.

Scaffolding structures made of wood may not be able to withstand temperature and climatic changes, hence compromising their durability. These structures are also prone to microbial attacks if left out for long.

As rapidly growing urbanisation rates across the world have led to the development of new constructions, the demand for scaffolding structures has also increased.

These structures offer safety and make the development process of new buildings a lot easier for workers.

Using reliable materials to make scaffolding structures is essential to prevent any accidents on construction sites.