3 Interesting Facts about Scaffolding We Bet You Didn’t Know

Solve this riddle – what stands upright, looks like a metal criss-cross and hugs a building?

Well, it’s a scaffold! Although the description is rather simple, these structures are much more complex in reality. The lattice is a product of what we call precision engineering. Okay, we are not here to discuss the technicality of scaffolds. Instead, our topic is the interesting facts associated with this structure which is so common to the world of domestic and commercial construction.

Introducing The Fun Facts About Scaffolding in Beckenham:

• It originated in North Africa and China.

No, it was not the so-familiar metal structure that we know today. During the ancient times, bamboo was a favourite material. Evidence has it that the structure was also widely used in ancient India. It was introduced in Hong Kong right after the 1800s colonisation.

Bamboo scaffolds not only satiated the requirements of commercial and residential construction, but also aided the setup of make-shift sheds for Cantonese Opera performances and the Yu Lan Ghost Festival.

In Greece, a kylix (wine cup) dating back to the fifth century was discovered, which contained a depiction of a scaffold supporting a warrior. Could we surmise that the structure was used during battle hours as well?

Other than that, evidence of the use of this structure has been found in the Palaeolithic cave paintings of Lascaux as well. It is believed that scaffolds were used to paint the 17,000-year old ceiling. Even ancient Egyptians probably used it to construct the Great Pyramids.

Takeaway: Did you know, The Great Wall of China, was built using bamboo scaffolds?

• Metal scaffolds didn’t exist until the 20th Century
  

Yes, this is true. Scaffolding in Beckenham today is largely of metal, isn’t it? However, the material didn’t come into existence until the 20^th century. Wood, specifically bamboo, was the only know material till then.

But, very soon, due to the excessive use of the structure everywhere, the supply of wood started declining in the regions from where it was sourced. This led to the hunt for, and finally the discovery of an alternate material to construct scaffolds.

In the year 1935, W.A. de Vigier came up with a design for an adjustable prop made of steel. This later contributed to the world of scaffolds and revolutionised the structure. This very prop aided in the setup of falsework, formwork, and trench sheeting.

Takeaway: Daniel Palmer Jones is known as the granddaddy of modern-day scaffolds. It was his patented invention called ‘Scaffixer’ that earned his company the permission to reconstruct the historic Buckingham Palace.

• Michelangelo is considered the best scaffold designer in the history of mankind.

Who doesn’t know the “Sistine Chapel” – the creation of this great painter, architect, and sculptor? Well, it is believed that Michelangelo had designed a scaffold to paint the ceiling of the Chapel. According to historians, the artist was at first reluctant to take up the project, stating he is a sculptor, not a painter.

However, Pope Julius II of Rome persuaded him to carry out the work to which he agreed later. It is said that the task was Herculean. Michelangelo had to lie on his back while painting incessantly atop the scaffold. Needless to say, it came out as the masterpiece that we now know.

Takeaway: While the work was in progress, Pope Julius would often climb the scaffold to inspect it. Michelangelo, in response, would hold out a hand to help him climb up.

Do you have any interesting fact about scaffoldings to share? Do let us know.