What is Single Frame Scaffolding? Pros & Cons

A single-frame scaffolding is a type of scaffolding where there is only one frame to support one side of the scaffolding and the other side is supported by the structure on which is work is performed. 

What is Single Frame Scaffolding? 
Image Credits: flickr

It is an older type of scaffolding that's commonly used for brick masonry construction and hence employed for small heights. 

The features, components, and benefits of single-frame scaffolding are explained in this article.

Fig.2. Single Frame Scaffolding

The system involves the use of an existing wall of a structure that is built as support for the working platform. Single scaffolding is derived from old brick masonry, where the hole in the wall of a structure under construction is where we "put the log" for support. Hence it is called bricklayer's scaffolding. As putlogs are used in single scaffolding, they are called as putlog scaffolds. 

Components of a Single Frame Scaffolding 

The main components of a single frame scaffolding system are:

1. Ledgers
2. Standards
3. Putlogs

Fig.3. Components of a Single Frame or Putlog Scaffold System

As the main support for the scaffold is the built wall structure, all the ledgers and standards are placed 1.2 meters from the wall. As shown in figure 2, the standards (vertical posts) represented as SS are placed 2 to 2.5 meters apart from each other, while the ledgers (Horizontal) represented as L is placed 1.2 to 1.5 meters apart. Putlogs are extracted from a hole in the wall and are located 1.2 to 1.5 meters apart. 

Fig.4. Typical Details of a Putlog Scaffolding

Apart from these main components, wooden boards and braces are attached to facilitate workers' convenience. 

Benefits of Single Frame Scaffolding

• Best for the construction of ordinary buildings.
• Much safer and rigid scaffolding, as they are connected to the structure that is built.
• Requires fewer components to set up.
• Cheap
• Easy Installation and removal

Drawbacks of Single Frame Scaffolding

• As the building itself is a support to the scaffold, the next level can be installed only after the brickwork has been set, which requires time and make the process slow.
• This scaffolding leaves holes in the building that needs to be filled up.
• A significant height cannot be reached by a single scaffolding. 

Also Read: Wall Ties in Masonry Construction - Features & Functions