Why some scaffolding systems are painted and other types are galvanized

Painted scaffolding: what is the point?

Kwikstage - Painted

Painted scaffolding of the Kwikstage system: manufactured and supplied by the St Helens plant

Scaffolding is painted for many reasons, the first and most important; Painted scaffolding reduces rust and corrosion. Regardless of the type of scaffolding used for the task in question, scaffolds of all types must be structurally sound and stable.

Over time, environmental factors and general wear, scaffolding decreases. When the scaffolding is painted, it provides a "shell" finish that prohibits the consequences of water contact on metal, eliminating oxidation of the metal underneath.

customized scaffold 

Scaffolding, although sometimes they are customized to be indicative of a company's brand or corporate colors. It is painted for durability, safety and reliability.

Painted scaffolding systems tend to be types of scaffolding systems such as; Cuplock and Kwikstage. Tube and accessory systems are generally kept galvanized.

Galvanized scaffolding: is it cheaper?

Galvanized scaffolding, popular although not as common as painted systems, mainly due to large cost differences.

The average Joe would assume that surely the system that has no paint is cheaper to buy or hire than the system that is painted.

Cuplock

Fully galvanized scaffolding with Cuplock system: supplied and manufactured by the St Helens plant

That is not the case, because scaffolds that are manufactured as fully galvanized systems undergo an additional process in order to completely galvanize and essentially seal the metal from all oxidation and corrosion. The galvanization process is more timely and, therefore, more expensive for the manufacturer and the customer.

So why bother buying galvanized scaffolding?

Galvanized system scaffolding is sought, at the right price.

The reason is that galvanized systems have a much longer lifespan than painted systems, in addition to requiring much less maintenance and repair.

Many maritime, oil and gas and marine industries opt for a fully galvanized system scaffolding, commonly opting for a fully galvanized Cuplock.

Painted V galvanized scaffolding

Painted and galvanized scaffolding systems have their own pros and cons, along with variable costs and benefits.

More often, painted systems are used within sectors and environments that do not experience adverse environmental conditions. Mainly due to the fact that when painted systems are used, the paint splinters and wears through the installation, use and removal of scaffolding. When that happens, the component or part can oxidize, resulting in an eventual oxide and a defective component that requires reconditioning, repainting and structural strength testing.

Galvanized systems, on the other hand, have a much higher lifespan, with the ability to be installed in hostile marine environments, without the risk of paint chips to allow oxidation and oxidation. Fully galvanized scaffolding requires much less maintenance compared to painted systems.