Case Studies: Successful Masonry Projects Using Scaffolding

Scaffolding is an essential component in the success of many masonry projects, allowing for safe, efficient, and high-quality work at elevated heights. In this case study, we will showcase a few projects where scaffolding played a crucial role in their success, demonstrating the importance of proper setup and usage in the masonry trade.

Project 1: Historical Building Restoration, Winnsboro, Texas

• Location: Winnsboro, Texas

• Challenge: The building , a former theater, had  deteriorating stucco over the original brick facade. Water damage had penetrated to the point the entire facade needed to be replaced. We found brick that closely matched the original. Several scaffolding challenges were addressed:

1. The building was on a main street that could only be shut down temporarily. Our scaffolding had to be steady enough to capture most if not all the heavy pieces of stucco without harming vehicles, powerlines, street lamps and other buildings.

2. Powerlines were within 20ft of the building. scaffolding would need to fit within that perimeter as it would be impossible to do safely with a lift.

3. A new support for the entryway (I-beam) which was over 20 ft long and weighed  over 900lbs needed to be installed without a lift because of the position of the powerlines. 

• Solution: Scaffolding was used to provide stable access for masons, ensuring precise work at higher levels, brought protection to the surrounding area, and a stable platform to work with. 
  • AFTER

  

  Outcome: The building was successfully restored without compromising its historical integrity, and the scaffolding allowed masons to complete the work safely, ahead of schedule.

Project 2: New Public Construction: Locker rooms

• Location: Texas A & M Commerce, Texas

• Challenge: A public works building (School) requiring new block/ brick masonry work on all exterior facades. The new building was a locker room at an existing college. The scaffold had to be precise as there was no room for errors as the it was bieng built between existing buildings. The weather also became a challenge when a tornado struck the building site at one point.

• Solution: Scaffolding systems were installed around the entire structure, allowing multiple teams to work simultaneously.  The structure was well built to OSHA standards and most of it withstood the storm.

Outcome: The scaffolding system sped up the construction timeline significantly and ensured consistent quality of masonry work across the entire project. We finished on time and safely thanks to a scaffolding system that included constant safety checks and use of ladders and gates.

Project 3: Residential Chimney Restoration

• Location: Linden , Texas
• Challenge: A Historical residential property needed a full chimney restoration, with the work located on a steep roofline.

• Solution: Specialized scaffolding was erected around the chimney, allowing safe access for repairs and brick replacement.

• Outcome: The scaffolding not only improved safety but also allowed the project to be completed in a fraction of the time, while maintaining high-quality workmanship.

Key Takeaways from These Projects

1. Safety First: Scaffolding ensures that masons can work safely, especially at height.
2. Efficiency: The ability to move around freely and securely allows for faster project completion.
3. Precision: Scaffolding gives masons stable platforms for their tools and materials, leading to more precise work.