Anchoring facade scaffolds
LONDON - At Afix Group, we understand that a façade scaffold is much more than a set of tubes and couplers – it is a temporary structure that must guarantee maximum safety under varying site conditions. One of the critical factors for stability and safety is proper anchoring. This is essential to reduce the risk of overturning or instability, particularly under wind loads. Below we share technical information on standards, selection criteria, and practical guidelines for correct façade scaffold anchoring.
1. Standards and purpose of anchoring
Anchoring for façade scaffolds must comply with European Standards EN 12810 and EN 12811 for temporary works.
These standards define the load and design requirements for scaffolding systems.
Anchoring serves two main purposes:
- External stability (global stability): prevents the scaffold from tilting or shifting under wind loads or asymmetrical loading.
- Internal stability (local stability): reduces the buckling length of standards and increases their resistance to buckling.
2. Importance of choosing the right anchor
Safe anchoring starts with the right anchor selection. Key criteria include:
a. Type of connection to the scaffold
Select a method that reliably transfers the design load. Common methods include:
• Anchoring with screw eye bolts and scaffold tubes
• Steel flange connections
• Direct couplings to steel or concrete elements
b. Base material & structural suitability
The substrate quality determines whether the anchor will hold:
Suitable: load-bearing concrete, solid brickwork with strong mortar
Unsuitable: cavity walls, plasterboard, hollow walls, lightweight cladding
If in doubt, consult a structural engineer.
c. Load direction and transfer
Depending on anchor type, loads may be applied in tension, compression (compression anchors), shear, bending, or combinations thereof. The choice of couplers, fixing angle, and load direction must align with the scaffold design’s force path.
d. Corrosion resistance
For long-term projects or aggressive environments, select anchors with high corrosion resistance.
e. Project-specific requirements
Consider location, wind zone, scaffold height, and anchoring types permitted by the client or main contractor.
3. Practical installation tips
- Always check anchors visually and mechanically for correct placement, torque, and fixing into load-bearing material.
- Always follow the anchor manufacturer’s specifications and carry out on-site pull tests if necessary.
- Anchor preferably every 4–6 metres in height, depending on wind load zone and scaffold width.
- Always account for wind loads, especially for scaffolds with sheeting or debris netting.
4. Conclusion
A façade scaffold is only as safe as its anchoring. By following the standards, selecting the right anchors, and controlling the installation process, you can prevent instability or collapse. Afix Group not only delivers high-quality system scaffolds but also the technical know-how to assemble them safely.
Safety starts at the foundation. Read how-to and where to anchor your scaffolding in the Afix Fast manual.
AFIX Group, one partner, many services, less worries
Do you want to work professionally and safely at heights?
Contact the AFIX scaffolding experts.