Materials for Scaffolding Planks

Scaffolds play an essential part in the building and construction industries. By providing stability and support to work platforms and access points scaffolds ensure that workers can work in a safe manner. One of the primary components of scaffolds is the scaffolding planks. These planks of wood, sometimes called walkboards or scaffold boards– provide the platform on which workers as well as equipment are able to stand. They come in a variety of designs, varying in materials and style, to accommodate various applications for scaffolding.

We specialize in wooden scaffolding planks. Below, we will highlight the type of plank and how it is compared to different kinds that are scaffolding planks.

Different kinds of Scaffolding Planks

Materials for Scaffolding Planks

Wooden Planks

The wood used to make scaffolding planks is of a different quality that the lumber used in construction projects. The material should include at least six rings in an inch. It must also have a few structural and surface defects and in the case for Southern pine the grain slope should be one inch each 14 inch of length. In addition, it has to be graded, inspected and marked by an independent, third-party certified organisation.

Some of the more widely utilized types of planks for wood scaffolding are:

Solid-sawn planks. The planks of scaffolding that are solid-sawn are usually made of Southern Pine, but they may also be made from Douglas Fir or other similar species of trees.

Laminate veneer lumber (LVL) planks. LVL decking plans are created by thin layers of timber that are attached with an adhesive that is designed for exterior use.

Metal Planks

The two most commonly used kinds of planks for metal scaffolding are:

Steel planks. Steel scaffolding planks have exceptional strength and endurance.

Aluminum planks. Aluminum scaffolding planks are light and affordable.

Scaffolding Planks with Design

Single Scaffold Planks

The single scaffold plans are commonly employed in brick masonry projects. They are intended to be placed in a parallel position to the wall surface however, they are 1.2 metres away.

Double Scaffold Planks

The double scaffold plans are usually employed in stone masonry projects. They are made to be placed in two rows to increase solidity and stability.

Comparisons between Plank Types

Each of these plank types has its own advantages and disadvantages, making it ideal for various applications. For instance:

Solid-sawn planks for scaffolding are a affordable option that gives an excellent mix of durability and stability. In comparison to an LVL scaffold plank they are more suitable for moist areas.

LVL scaffold planks provide better durability and support, but at a price that is a bit higher as compared to solid sawn planks.

Steel scaffold planks offer the strongest strength, making them ideal for loads. However, they add to the weight of the scaffolding structure.

Aluminum scaffold planks help reduce the weight of scaffolding structures however, they are less sturdy and long-lasting over steel planks. They’re suitable for applications that are less demanding than steel planks.