Scaffolding calculator
Frame scaffolding is hired by the bay or by the square metre of façade. The calculator counts the bays along the façade and the levels up it.
Your measurements
Result
- Façade area
- 60.00 m²
- Scaffold bays needed
- 12 pcs
Levels are counted at 2 m per frame. Scaffolding must be anchored to the wall; above a few levels it should be erected by trained people.
How the calculation works
- Façade area = length × height.
- Bays along = façade length ÷ bay width (2, 2.5 or 3 m), rounded up.
- Levels = height ÷ 2 m (the height of one frame), rounded up.
- Total bays = bays along × levels.
Worked example
For a façade 10 m long and 6 m high (60 m²) with 2.5 m bays: 4 bays along × 3 levels = 12 bays.
What the calculator assumes
- One bay is a scaffold field: two frames, braces, platforms and guardrails.
- Scaffolding is usually hired per bay or per m² of façade, per month.
When to adjust the result
- For the whole house, add the lengths of all façades (the perimeter) — corners sometimes need extra bays.
- Scaffolding must be anchored to the wall and stand on level ground on base plates; above a few levels it should be erected by trained people, as local safety rules require.
Scaffolding safely
A scaffold must stand on firm, level ground with base plates and sole boards spreading the load, and be tied into the building at the intervals the system requires. Fit guardrails, mid-rails and toe boards on every working platform, and never remove ties or bracing to make room for work.
Rent from suppliers who provide the erection instructions or erect it for you. In many countries, scaffolds above a certain height or used by contractors must be erected by trained people and inspected before use and after bad weather.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure for scaffolding?
Measure the length of each façade you need to reach and the working height; add the façades together for the whole house.
Can I put up scaffolding myself?
Small frame scaffolds yes, following the supplier's instructions; taller scaffolds and those over public areas must be erected by trained people under local rules.
Do I need permission to put scaffolding on the pavement?
Usually yes — public footpaths and roads require a licence or permit from the local authority.
Tower or façade scaffold?
A mobile tower suits short, local jobs; a façade scaffold is better for work along a whole wall, such as rendering or insulation.