Scaffolding is essential for many building and construction projects. It provides support and stability to the platforms that employees use to move in and around the structures on which they are working, ensuring they can perform the work safely. The design and construction of scaffolding can vary from application to application. For example, in masonry projects, the type employed depends on the material (e.g., stone, brick, concrete, veneer). Below, we highlight the different types of masonry materials available and the types of scaffolds used for them.
Types of Masonry
Masonry refers to the building of structures from masonry units and mortar. The masonry units form the bulk of the structure, while the mortar keeps the units in place. The most common types of masonry projects are:
Stone masonry. Structures made from stone are strong and durable. They can be dressed or undressed. Dressed stone structures are made from a specific size of the stone, resulting in a pattern that is clean and uniform. Undressed stone structures are made from stones of different sizes, resulting in a more natural-looking appearance.
Brick masonry. Similar to stone structures, brick structures are strong and durable. The materials are available in a wide range of colors and textures, which enables masonry professionals to tailor the structure to different aesthetic requirements. However, it can be difficult to color match bricks.
Concrete block masonry. Concrete structures are made from much larger units than stone and brick structures. As a result, they can be much faster to build. The materials are also generally more affordable, which can lead to lower project costs.
Veneer masonry. Veneer masonry is primarily used for aesthetic purposes. It does not provide any support to the structure. The masonry units are added to the outside of another structure.
Each of these masonry types carries unique challenges that necessitate the use of different scaffolding setups.
Types of Scaffolding
There are many types of scaffolding, each of which is suitable for different building and construction applications. Two of the most commonly used for masonry projects are single scaffolding and double scaffolding.
Single scaffolding. Single scaffolding is also referred to as a bricklayer’s scaffolding since it is commonly used in brick masonry applications. It features a single row of standards (i.e., vertical elements that are fixed in the ground in a row parallel to the structure), which are used along with the wall to support the rest of the scaffolding elements (i.e., the ledgers, putlogs, and platforms).
Double scaffolding. Double scaffolding is also called mason’s scaffolding. It is frequently used for stone masonry applications. It features two rows of standards, which provides additional strength and stability while eliminating the need for putlogs to be fixed to the wall.
Scaffolding Planks for Masonry Projects From Kennison Forest Products
At the start of any masonry project, it is important to choose the proper style of scaffolding to keep your team safe, whether you’re working with stone, brick, concrete, or another type of masonry material. Once you’ve chosen the scaffolding design, you also need to consider the material you use for the scaffolding walking and working surfaces. Need help selecting a material? The experts at Kennison Forest Products are here to help! We provide high-quality scaffolding planks perfect for single and double scaffolding systems.
To learn more about our products and how they can benefit your masonry project, contact us today. To discuss your requirements with one of our team members, request a quote.