Comparing Supported and Suspended Scaffolding Types

Certain important industrial construction products come in different varieties depending on the need, and scaffolding is a great example. While there are other types sometimes used, the two most common forms of scaffolding found in industrial construction settings today are supported scaffolding and suspended scaffolding – what are the differences between them and the ways they’re used?

At Redi, as one of the top industrial construction companies across Nevada, Idaho, Colorado and Wyoming, we offer a variety of industrial scaffolding rental services, including both supported and suspended scaffolding options. Here are some basics on each type, plus some comparisons in important areas to help you decide which is best for your needs.

Supported Scaffolding Basics and Types

As the name suggests, a supported scaffold refers to a structure that is held up from ground level by supports such as poles, frames, or other sturdy base materials. This type of scaffolding is commonly used in industrial settings for work that requires access to multiple levels or areas of a building or site, such as painting, repair work, and maintenance. There are several types of supported scaffolding, including:

• Frame Scaffolding: Consisting of horizontal and vertical tubes connected with couplers, frame scaffolding is one of the most versatile and widely used types of supported scaffolds. It is made up of easily assembled components and can be adjusted to different heights, making it suitable for various types of industrial projects.
• Pump Jack Scaffolding: This type of scaffolding uses movable brackets on vertical poles to raise and lower the platform as needed, making it ideal for use on uneven terrain or buildings with irregular shapes.
• Mobile Scaffolding: As the name suggests, this type of scaffolding is movable, allowing workers to easily reposition it as needed. It often features wheels or casters for mobility.
• Ladder Jack Scaffolding: For lower height projects, ladder jack scaffolding is a popular choice. It involves using metal brackets that straddle the rungs of a ladder and support a wooden platform.
• Rolling Scaffolding: This type of scaffold, which is set on wheels, can be easily moved from one location to another, making it ideal for projects that require frequent repositioning.

Suspended Scaffolding Basics and Types

Unlike supported scaffolding, which is held up by supports from the ground level, suspended scaffolding is suspended from above using ropes or other types of support. This type of scaffolding is typically used for high-rise construction projects or in situations where the use of traditional scaffolding would be impractical. The most common types of suspended scaffolding include:

• Single-Point Adjustable Scaffolds: Consisting of a single platform suspended by ropes attached to an overhead support structure, this type of scaffold is commonly used for painting and maintenance work on tall buildings.
• Mast Climbing Scaffolds: Similar to single-point adjustable scaffolds, mast climbing scaffolds feature a platform that is suspended from a vertical mast structure. They often have better stability and can reach greater heights than single-point scaffolds.
• Multi-Point Adjustable Scaffolds: This type of scaffold uses multiple points of suspension and can be used for both short-term and long-term projects. It is commonly used in bridge construction, building restoration, and window washing.

While both supported and suspended scaffolding types serve the same purpose of providing safe access to elevated areas for workers, they differ in several key aspects. Our next few sections will look at these in detail.

Ideal Tasks

One of the largest differentiators between supported and suspended scaffolding is the types of tasks they are best suited for. Supported scaffolding, with its more sturdy and stationary structure, is ideal for longer-term projects that require workers to access multiple levels or areas regularly.

On the other hand, suspended scaffolding offers greater flexibility and mobility, making it suitable for projects that involve working at extreme heights. These can include tasks such as window cleaning, building maintenance, and bridge construction.

Set Up Time

The set-up time required for both types of scaffolding also differs significantly. Supported scaffolding typically takes longer to assemble due to its various components and the need for a stable base on which to build it. Suspended scaffolding, on the other hand, can be set up in a matter of minutes, making it a more efficient option for shorter-term projects.

Cost

Supported scaffolding is generally the more cost-effective option, as it requires less specialized equipment and can be used for longer periods of time. Suspended scaffolding, on the other hand, often involves renting or purchasing special equipment such as cranes or hoists to support the platforms, making it a more expensive choice.

Safety Considerations

As long as they are constructed and used correctly, both supported and suspended scaffolding can be safe options for workers. However, each type comes with its own safety considerations. Supported scaffolding requires proper base support and bracing to prevent tipping or collapse, while suspended scaffolding must have secure suspension points and well-maintained ropes to ensure the platform stays in place.

Both supported and suspended scaffolding types offer unique benefits and are suited for different tasks and projects. As one of the leading industrial construction companies in the region, we at Redi understand the importance of selecting the right type of scaffolding for each project’s specific requirements. We hope this guide has helped you understand the differences between these two types.

And if you’re in need of these or any other industrial construction services around Wyoming, Nevada, Idaho or Colorado, reach out to us today!