Report On

Bamboo Scaffolding

Kathmandu University, School of Engineering

Department of Civil Engineering with Architecture Program

Building Construction - I
Date: 22nd August 2021

Submitted by:
Aashraya Rajkarnikar
B. Arch. T.Y.- I
Roll no: 22
Submitted to:
Ar. Buddha Shrestha
Course Tutor
Building Construction - I

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Table of Contents

Introduction & Types of Bamboo Scaffolding 3-4

What bamboo scaffolding is, when it is used and types

Main Elements of Bamboo Scaffolding 5

Primary structural members

Additional Elements of Bamboo Scaffolding 6

Working platform, catch fans and nylon nets

Lapping and Jointing/Lashing of Bamboo 7-8

Lapping and types of lashing of bamboo

Other types of Bamboo Scaffolding 9-10

Cantilever, Truss-out and Platform Scaffolding

Erection Sequence of Double Layer Bamboo Scaffolding 11-13

Steps on how the scaffolding is erected

Dismantling of Bamboo Scaffolding 14

How the scaffolding is dismantled

Differences between bamboo and steel scaffolding 15

Advantages and disadvantages of each

Conclusion 16
Citations 17

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Introduction
Scaffolding is a temporary elevated structure that is
erected around the perimeter of a building. This
elevated structure provides a safe working place for
the construction workers at a convenient height.
Based on the material used, scaffolding is generally
of three types:
1. Timber/Bamboo Scaffolding
2. Steel Scaffolding
3. Aluminium Scaffolding
Bamboo scaffolding is a traditional construction
support method which is widely used in and
Southeast Asia. Hong Kong is one of the most
popular countries that is known for its use of
bamboo scaffolding in construction. Traditionally,
bamboo scaffolding has been used to provide
temporary access and working platform at heights
above 1.5 meters above the ground. It is used for
multiple construction activities such as:
a. External Wall Finishing
This includes applying plaster, paint and finishing materials on the external walls of the
building.

a. Building Maintenance Work

Repairing damaged or broken areas of buildings

b. Building Services Installation

Installation of waste water and water supply pipes, air conditioning and ventilation systems
at unreachable heights

c. Inspection by Supervisory Staff

For inspection of building elements during or after the construction process

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Furthermore, scaffolding isn’t only limited to the outside of the building but can also be
erected on the inside if the ceilings of certain rooms are very high. This is done to install false
ceilings, lights and also to paint the walls.

Scaffolding for external wall plaster Scaffolding for internal wall painting

Types of Bamboo Used in Scaffolding

According to the usage of bamboo in Hong Kong, the bamboo that is used in construction is
mainly of two types (Wong, 1998):
1. Mao Jue
Mao Jue is a thicker bamboo that is used as the
primary component for scaffolding structures.
Bamboo if diameter 70 mm and higher are
categorized as Mao Jue. It is used mostly to
create vertical and diagonal lengths. It is thicker
because it is responsible for transferring the load
of the entire scaffolding structure to the ground.
(Wong, 1998)
2. Kao Jue
Kao Jue is a comparatively thinner variation of
bamboo used as the secondary component for
scaffolding stuctures. Bamboo of diameter of 45
mm – 70 mm are categorized as Kao Jue. It is
used mostly to create horizontal lengths that
support platforms. (Wong, 1998)

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Main elements in Bamboo Scaffolding
There are different structural elements that
come together to make the bamboo
scaffolding structure as a whole. These
elements are shown and described from the
figure below:
Standards: Standards are upright or vertical
members that transfer the load of the
scaffolding structure to the ground .
Ledgers: Ledgers are horizontal members
that tie the entire scaffold longitudinally and
supports the working platforms.

Bracings: Bracings are diagonal members

that provides rigidity to the scaffold and
prevents it from falling apart.

Transoms: Transoms are short horizontal

members spanning across ledgers that are
perpendicular to the face of the building.
They are used along with ledgers to support
working platforms. (Jiang, 2007)
Details of Double Layer scaffolding
(Wong, 1998)

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Additional Elements of Bamboo Scaffolding
Apart from structural elements, additional elements are necessary to be used with the
scaffolding. These elements help in carrying out construction activities and aid in safety.
Working Platforms: these are flat slabs usually made of timber planks or Galvanized Zinc
sheets. They provide a platform for carrying out construction works and holding tools and
equipment.
Catch Fans: Catch fans are somewhat an extension of the working platforms. These platforms
prevent the people below from falling debris and objects. They also catch workers that
accidentally fall down and prevents them from serious harm.
Nylon Nets: Nylon nets are stretched over the catch fan to create a surface that catches any
falling object. They are also draped over the sides of the scaffolding. (Wong, 1998)

Nylon nets and catch fans

Image: (Designboom, 2009) (Jiang, 2007)

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Lapping of Bamboo

While setting up the scaffolding, the span of bamboo needs to be

increased more and more as the building gets taller. To make tall
bamboo scaffoldings, lapping is done. Lapping is the process of tying
two bamboo members together along their lengths. During lapping, the
bamboo is overlapped for a certain length to maintain stability. For Mao
Jue, the minimum overlapping length is around 2.25 metres. For Kao
Jue, this length is 1.5 metres because it is thinner than Mao Jue. Lapping
is done in three points in Mao Jue and in two points in Kao Jue. (Wong,
1998)

Jointing/Lashing of Bamboo
Jointing or lashing is done to hold crossing bamboo members together. Like lapping, jointing is
also done with jute rope or nylon thread. There are a number of ways of lashing in bamboo,
each having their own strength and complexity. The most common methods of lashing are:
Cross Lashing
It is the simplest form of lashing. It is done by
simple tying the rope around the cross
multiple times in the same direction. As cross
lashing is done in only one direction, a
moment is produced in the bamboo member.
So, to counter that moment, the adjacent

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joint is tied in the opposite direction (shown in fig.). This type of lashing is done to tie standards
and ledgers together. (Wong, 1998)
Diagonal Lashing
Diagonal Lashing is used to tie joints that cross, usually between bracings (Wong, 1998). First,
a timber hitch is tied diagonally and repeated 3 times in the same direction. Then, the same
number of tight turns are made in the other direction, forming a cross shape with the rope. The
lashing is finished with at least three turns outside the cross and a clover hitch. This is a more
complex form of lashing in comparison to cross lashing. However, it is more stable and doesn’t
produce any moment in the bamboo members. (igkt,2020)

Image: (igkt,2020)

Square Lashing
Square lashing is done to tie standards and ledgers together. It starts with a clover hitch
around the standard. Then, the rope is turned over the ledger and around the standard 3 times.
Then, the rope is turned in perpendicular direction to the previous turns. Finally, the knot is
ended with a clover hitch. This is a stronger and more stable form of lashing of perpendicular
members. However, it takes more time. (igkt,2020)

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Image: (igkt,2020)
Bamboo Scaffolding Systems
On the basis of the structure, bamboo scaffolding can be divided into two major systems:
1. Single Layer Bamboo Scaffolding
2. Double Layer Bamboo Scaffolding

1. Single Layer Bamboo

Scaffolding
In this system of scaffolding,
only a single plane of
framework is constructed. This
system is used during
construction period as an
access for formwork placement
and for rebar workers. It is also
done to allocate the boundary
of the building during
construction phase. (Wong,
1998)
This type of system of scaffolding is very uneasy because the workers do not have a flat
surface to stand and they have to cling to the poles. For the same reason, single layer
bamboo scaffolding is considered dangerous and unsafe and prone to many accidents.
However, this system uses less bamboo and therefore, is cheaper than double layer
scaffolding, it is usually preferred by painters because there is less obstruction while
working.

2. Double Layer Bamboo Scaffolding

In this system of scaffolding, two planes of framework are
constructed. The inner layer, also known as finishing
scaffolding is at a distance of 150mm to 300mm from the face
of the building and the outer layer, also known as working
scaffolding is at a distance of 700mm from the inner layer.
This type of scaffolding system allows the setting up of
working platforms between the inner and outer layers where
workers can place tools and equipment. It is safer and easier
than single layer because workers do not have to cling to
bamboo poles. (Wong, 1998)
This system is more expensive and time consuming to set up

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 in comparison to single layer because it uses more bamboo.

Other types of Bamboo Scaffolding

Besides single layer and double layer scaffolding, there are a number of variants of these two
used for different purposes. Some of them are:

Cantilever Scaffolding
In this type of scaffolding, a part of the framework is
built from the ground whereas the rest of it is
cantilevered over. The cantilevered part is held
together by bracings. This type of scaffolding is used
where the scaffolding cannot be fully constructed
from the ground, for example, roads. It is usually used
for the installation of overhanging signs and displays
over roads and footpaths. (Designboom, 2009)

Truss-out Scaffolding
In this type of scaffolding, the framework is
supported by the walls of an existing building. The
horizontal members are held in place by inserting
them into the walls of the building and the vertical
members rest on top. Truss-out scaffolding is used
for minor works and small repairs or replacements
done in a pre-existing building. It is also done for
inspection of a certain part of a building. The
scaffolding used here is usually not higher than 6 Image: (Designboom, 2009)
metres. (Designboom, 2009)

Platform Scaffolding
In this type of scaffolding, a large framework of bamboo
supports very tightly spaced horizontal bamboo poles,
creating a large surface area. The framework or truss is
supported by diagonal members called rakers. This type
of scaffolding is usually made when a large working area
is required for constructing a certain part of a building,
or if the construction of the part is time consuming. The

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Image: (Designboom, 2009)
use of rakers makes it so that the scaffolding does not obstruct the vehicles or pedestrians
underneath it. (Designboom, 2009)

Erection sequence of Double Layer Bamboo Scaffolding

While constructing a double layer bamboo scaffolding, the proper steps must be followed in
sequential order so that the scaffolding is built properly and remains stable throughout the
construction process. The steps of erection of a double layer scaffolding are:

1. First, the extreme standards of

the outer layer are placed at a
distance of 1m from the face of
the building and 3m apart from
each other.

(Jayanetti, 2018)

2. Then, lower ledgers are tied

to the standards,
maintaining a gap of 0.75m
between each other.

(Jayanetti, 2018)

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3. The minor standards are tied to
the ledgers

(Jayanetti, 2018)

4. The standards are tied to the building

using metal rods called putlogs so that the
scaffolding does not fall over. Also,
diagonal bracings are added to make the
scaffolding rigid

(Jayanetti, 2018)

5. Upper ledgers are added to the outer

layer

(Jayanetti, 2018)

6. Similar process is repeated in the inner

layer which is at a distance of 0.3 m from
the face of the building. The inner and
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(Jayanetti, 2018)
 outer layers are connected with transoms

7. Working platforms made of Galvanized

Zinc sheets or timber planks are added
between the inner and outer layers. The
scaffolding is ready to be worked on.

(Jayanetti, 2018)

Dismantling the scaffolding

Just like during erection, dismantling the
scaffolding should also be done in an orderly
manner to prevent the collapsing of the entire
scaffolding. The bamboo scaffold must be
dismantled immediately after the construction
works are completed. It should be done by
trained workers and under direct and careful
supervision. The points to be noted when
dismantling the scaffolding are:

 Any debris or materials present on the

scaffolding platforms are removed

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  Upper-level members are removed, gradually working downwards
 Exterior layer is removed before the interior layer
 Non load bearing members are removed before load bearing members
 Before critical members like ledgers and
Workers dismantling scaffolding
standards are removed, the stability of the
framework must be assured by placing a similar bamboo member at the lower level.

Differences between bamboo and steel scaffolding

Nowadays, for the construction of most buildings, steel scaffolding is used. Bamboo
scaffolding is rarely seen. However, south Asian countries like Hong Kong still use bamboo
scaffolding due to its numerous advantages over steel scaffolding. The differences between
bamboo and steel scaffolding are as follows:

Bamboo Scaffolding Steel Scaffolding

It is very cheap and cost effective. (6m costs It is way more expensive (6m costs $80)
$10) (So, 2002) (So, 2002)

Lightweight and easy to transport Heavy and difficult to transport

Very Flexible and can be designed to suit the Not as flexible as bamboo, difficulty in
shapes of buildings buildings with irregular forms

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 Very simple system, doesn’t require
machinery or power driver tools
Weather conditions can heavily affect
strength and durability
High tensile but low compressive strength
(80N/mm2) (So, 2002)
Unreliable and unsafe ate most times, nylon
joints may break and collapse (So, 2002)
Accessories cannot be used and have to be
manually built
Requires special equipment for installation
Not harshly affected by weather, has
consistent strength
High tensile and compressive strength
(250N.mm2) (So, 2002)
Safe because the presence of locks and pins
makes the connections secure (So, 2002)
Accessories like wheels and ladders can be
easily attached and used

Mobile steel scaffolding

Immobile bamboo scaffolding

Conclusion
Although steel scaffolding is chosen over bamboo scaffolding in todays construction works,
there are still many advantages that bamboo has over steel. This is why it is used over steel
scaffolding in some regions.
Nowadays, a hybrid scaffolding has been developed which uses bamboo as the main
scaffolding members but the joints are made of steel (Jiang, 2007). This hybrid can be used to
combine the benefits of both steel and bamboo. It has the flexibility of bamboo and the
strength and durability of steel. It can also be a sustainable alternative to steel scaffolding
because of the vast availability of bamboo. However, proper research is needed for the
development of this type of scaffolding.

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Citations
Material In-text
Bibliography
type Citation
Research Aiyin Jiang, 2007, An Sustainable Scaffolding Alternative -
(Jiang, 2007)
Paper Bamboo Scaffolding,
Research Mr. Francis So, 2002, ERECTION OF BAMBOO SCAFFOLDS AND THEIR
(So, 2002)
Paper RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

Article (Wong, 1998) Francis K.W. Wong, Bamboo Scaffolding Safety Management

Instruction
(igkt, 2020) International Guild of Knot Tyers, Knot Charts, www.igkt.net
Manual
(Designboom, Hong Kong Bamboo Scaffolding,
Website
2009) www.designboom.com/design/hong-kong-bamboo-scaffolding/

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 Liyonal Jayanetti, Bamboo in Construction,
(Jayanetti,
Website www.slideshare.net/inbar_sm/lional-jayanettibamboo-in-
2018)
construction

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