What Is Strutting in Construction?

Introduction

In the realm of building construction and civil engineering, many structural elements come together to form a safe, stable, and durable framework. One such crucial component is strutting, a technique that supports and reinforces other structural members, particularly during excavation or temporary works.

Understanding what strutting is, how it works, where it’s applied, and why it’s essential can significantly improve a construction professional’s grasp on structural safety and efficiency. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the meaning, types, and applications of strutting in construction.

Definition: What Is Strutting in Construction?

Strutting in construction refers to the use of compression members (called struts) to support walls, trenches, formwork, or temporary structures by transferring loads laterally or vertically. It is typically used to prevent collapse or movement of a structure while under load, especially during excavation or concrete casting.

In simple terms, strutting is the process of installing horizontal or inclined supports that brace structural components and hold them in position.

Key Objectives of Strutting

• Prevent wall collapse during excavation
• Provide temporary support to freshly poured concrete
• Distribute loads evenly across weaker areas
• Maintain shape and alignment in formwork and trenching systems

Where Is Strutting Used in Construction?

Strutting is commonly applied in a wide range of scenarios:

1. Excavation Work

• During deep excavation, especially in urban settings, struts are installed between sheet piles or retaining walls to resist lateral earth pressure.

2. Formwork Systems

• In slab and beam construction, strutting is used to stabilize shuttering and resist concrete pressure during curing.

3. Trenching

• Temporary trenches for laying utilities or pipelines often require strutting to prevent soil from caving in.

4. Roofing and Trusses

• In roof construction, struts serve as compression members in trusses. The installation and arrangement of such members is referred to as roof strutting.

How Strutting Works

Struts are placed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally between two opposing surfaces or structural components. Once installed, they resist compressive forces by pushing outward, thus balancing the inward pressure from the earth, concrete, or other structural loads.

In the case of trench strutting, horizontal struts push against trench walls to stop them from collapsing inward.

Types of Strutting in Construction

1. Horizontal Strutting

• Commonly used in excavation and trenching.
• Struts span horizontally between opposing walls or surfaces.

2. Vertical Strutting

• Found in formwork systems or multi-level bracing arrangements.
• Transmits loads vertically to a stable foundation or platform.

3. Diagonal (Inclined) Strutting

• Often used in roof trusses and temporary scaffolding.
• Offers multi-directional load resistance.

Strutting Materials

The choice of material depends on load requirements, environment, and budget. Common materials include:

• Timber: Cost-effective, used for light loads and temporary work.
• Steel: High strength, suitable for heavy loads and deeper excavations.
• Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant.
• Composite Struts: Used in specialized engineering applications.

Comparison Table: Strutting Types and Features

Installation Process of Strutting in Construction

The process of installing struts varies by application, but the general steps include:

Step 1: Site Assessment

• Understand soil conditions, structural load paths, and pressure points.

Step 2: Design Calculation

• Determine spacing, material, and load-bearing capacity of the struts.

Step 3: Placement

• Position struts between walls, formwork, or support members. Use props or wedges for tight fitting.

Step 4: Secure Fixing

• Secure struts with clamps, brackets, or welded joints based on design.

Step 5: Inspection

• Ensure the system is properly aligned and tested before continuing construction activities.

Advantages of Strutting in Construction

• ✅ Prevents structural failure during excavation or casting.
• ✅ Improves safety for workers and adjacent buildings.
• ✅ Distributes load evenly, minimizing stress on weaker components.
• ✅ Reusable materials (steel/aluminum) offer cost-effectiveness.
• ✅ Quick to install and remove, especially in temporary works.

Challenges and Limitations

• ❌ Improperly installed struts can lead to buckling or collapse.
• ❌ Requires regular inspection and maintenance, especially in wet environments.
• ❌ May obstruct workflow in tight excavation spaces.
• ❌ Inadequate design could result in under-support or over-support, both of which are risky.

Safety Precautions While Using Strutting

• Always follow structural engineer’s recommendations.
• Use quality-checked materials with known load ratings.
• Regularly monitor and tighten struts during prolonged usage.
• Ensure that workers are trained in handling and placement.
• Never remove struts prematurely before the supported structure gains sufficient strength.

Real-Life Example: Strutting in Deep Excavation

Let’s consider a city sewer project that involves a 12-foot-deep trench. Without struts, the pressure from soil and nearby traffic could cause the trench walls to collapse. By installing horizontal steel struts at regular intervals, the excavation remains stable until the pipeline is laid and backfilling begins.

This is a classic use case where strutting saves both lives and infrastructure.

Conclusion

Strutting in construction is more than just a supporting mechanism — it’s a critical safety and structural strategy. Whether it’s stabilizing trench walls, supporting concrete during curing, or holding roof elements in place, strutting ensures that a building or structure remains safe, stable, and well-balanced during construction phases.

By understanding the types, materials, and correct usage of strutting, construction professionals can reduce the risk of failure, speed up project timelines, and build with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is strutting in simple words?

Strutting is the process of using supports (struts) to hold up walls, trenches, or frameworks during construction by resisting external pressure.

Q2: Where is strutting used most commonly?

Strutting is mostly used in excavations, formwork systems, roof trusses, and trenching operations.

Q3: What materials are commonly used for strutting?

Common materials include steel, timber, aluminum, and in some advanced cases, composite materials.

Q4: Is strutting permanent or temporary?

Strutting is generally temporary, especially in excavation and concrete formwork, but it can be permanent in trusses or frames.

Q5: What is the difference between strutting and bracing?

While both provide support, strutting resists compressive forces, whereas bracing may resist both tension and compression depending on its placement and purpose.