Introduction: Why Strutting Matters in Construction

In the ever-evolving world of building construction, safety, stability, and structural integrity are non-negotiable. One of the most critical support systems used to achieve these goals is strutting. Whether it’s for trench excavation, formwork support, or temporary wall bracing, strutting plays a vital role in ensuring that loads are transferred safely and collapses are prevented.

This detailed guide explores everything you need to know about strutting in construction, from its definition to types, uses, materials, installation techniques, and more.

What Is Strutting in Building Construction?

Strutting refers to the use of structural members—known as struts—that are placed between two surfaces to prevent movement or collapse. These members are designed to resist compression, helping to transfer lateral forces safely from one part of a structure to another or into the ground.

Strutting is often used as a temporary support system during excavation, formwork erection, or shoring of unstable structures, but can also be found in permanent applications in bridges, towers, and industrial buildings.

Functions of Strutting in Construction

• Prevents wall or trench collapse during excavation.
• Supports formwork during concrete pouring to maintain shape.
• Stabilizes structures during foundation or repair work.
• Resists lateral forces such as wind or earth pressure.
• Ensures safe working conditions for laborers in trenches or near temporary structures.

Types of Strutting Used in Construction

1. Horizontal Strutting

• Installed between two parallel surfaces (e.g., trench walls).
• Commonly used with walers in trenching.
• Distributes lateral earth pressure evenly.

2. Inclined Strutting

• Placed diagonally between two surfaces.
• Often used in formwork for walls or slabs.
• Offers greater flexibility for uneven structures.

3. Raking Strutting

• Installed at an angle (typically 45°–75°).
• Transfers load to a solid base.
• Common in temporary shoring systems.

4. Flying Strutting

• Struts that span between two walls without touching the ground.
• Useful in confined urban areas or over openings like basements.

Materials Used in Strutting

Choosing the right material for strutting is crucial, depending on the load, project size, and whether the system is temporary or permanent.

Applications of Strutting in Building Projects

1. Excavation Support

Struts are installed horizontally in trenches to hold back earth pressure, ensuring worker safety and preventing collapse.

2. Formwork for Concrete

Strutting provides lateral support to molds, preventing deformation during concrete casting.

3. Retaining Wall Construction

Temporary struts are used during backfilling to prevent structural tilting or failure.

4. Foundation Work

Struts hold up existing structures during underpinning or retrofitting of foundations.

5. High-Rise Façade Retention

Used to keep exterior façades stable while the internal structure is rebuilt or expanded.

Step-by-Step Installation of Strutting

1. Site Inspection & Planning

• Analyze soil, load, and environmental conditions.
• Choose suitable strutting type and materials.

2. Setting Up Walers (If Required)

• Horizontal beams along trench walls that receive struts.

3. Placement of Struts

• Insert struts either horizontally or at the required angle.
• Use clamps or turnbuckles to fix and adjust length.

4. Anchoring

• Anchor struts to solid ground or opposing structures.

5. Inspection

• Check for proper alignment, rigidity, and safety compliance.
• Reinspect periodically, especially after concrete curing or heavy rain.

Advantages of Using Strutting in Construction

• Increases safety during excavation and construction.
• Maintains form accuracy in concrete structures.
• Prevents soil collapse, saving time and costs.
• Reusable materials like steel reduce long-term costs.
• Versatile applications across many construction types.

Limitations of Strutting

• Can be cost-intensive for large-scale projects.
• Requires expert design and planning.
• Occupies workspace, especially in small trenches.
• Timber struts may degrade in wet or termite-prone areas.
• Improper installation can lead to serious accidents.

Best Practices for Effective Strutting

• Conduct a geotechnical assessment before design.
• Ensure adequate spacing between struts.
• Use standard safety equipment and gear.
• Assign trained professionals for installation and inspection.
• Always have a backup safety plan in place for deep excavations.

Conclusion

Strutting in building construction is an indispensable element in both temporary and permanent structural setups. From stabilizing trench walls during excavation to ensuring the integrity of concrete formwork, struts play a crucial safety and support role in modern construction.

With various types like horizontal, raking, inclined, and flying struts, contractors can choose systems that suit specific project requirements. The key lies in careful planning, material selection, and compliance with safety norms.

Strutting not only enhances structural integrity but also protects workers and equipment from collapse-related hazards. Incorporating strutting systems into your construction projects is not just a good practice—it’s often a legal and safety requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the difference between strutting and shoring?

Strutting is a part of shoring. Shoring is a broader term that refers to all systems that provide lateral support, whereas strutting specifically refers to the horizontal or inclined members used within those systems.

Q2: Is strutting used only in temporary construction?

No. While most strutting systems are temporary, especially in excavation and formwork, some struts—especially steel or concrete ones—are used in permanent structural elements.

Q3: What is the ideal spacing between struts in trenching?

Spacing depends on the depth of the trench, soil type, and load conditions. Typically, struts are placed every 1.2 to 2.4 meters, but exact spacing should be determined by an engineer.

Q4: Can timber struts be reused?

Yes, but only if they remain in good condition—free from moisture damage, warping, or cracking. Reuse must be assessed case-by-case.

Q5: Are flying struts better than raking struts?

They serve different purposes. Flying struts are useful when there’s no ground to anchor into, while raking struts are stronger and more effective at transferring loads to the ground.

Q6: Who is responsible for designing strutting systems on site?

A qualified structural or civil engineer should be consulted to design strutting systems that meet local codes and structural requirements.