Frame vs. modular scaffolding: which system gives you the best return?
When planning a building site, the question soon arises: which scaffolding system is the right one – frame scaffolding or modular scaffolding?
The differences are more pronounced than many people realise. Whilst frame scaffolding is primarily intended for use on façades, modular scaffolding excels thanks to its maximum flexibility in demanding construction and industrial environments.
What is frame scaffolding?
Ein Rahmengerüst genannt - besteht aus vormontierten Vertikalrahmen, die durch Riegel, Beläge und Geländer ergänzt werden.
Es ist in Deutschland eines der am häufigsten verwendeten Gerüstsysteme.
Typical areas of application
- Facade renovation
- Insulation work
- New build / Structural work
- Standardised areas without irregular shapes
- Painting and plastering work
Characteristics of a frame scaffolding
- fixed grid dimensions (usually 2.50 m / 3.00 m)
- extremely quick installation
- clear, recurring structure
- Compatible with many standard façade drainage systems
Buying scaffolding is a long-term investment
Buy frame scaffoldingBuy modular scaffolding
System scaffolding or modular scaffolding: the differences
Do you have a specific project (bridge, industrial plant)?
What is modular scaffolding?
A modular scaffolding system consists of standard poles and ledgers that can be connected to one another in various ways at defined junctions (rings).
It is the most flexible scaffolding system on the market and is frequently used in industrial and technical settings. Perfect for irregular building structures and specialised technical solutions.
Typical areas of application
- Industrial plants
- Refineries
- Churches, towers, round buildings
- Stage Construction & Event Technology
- Interior spaces with offsets or differences in level
Characteristics of modular scaffolding
- variable angles
- freely selectable vertical spacing
- complex 3-dimensional structures are possible
- high load-bearing capacity with a technical design
Which scaffolding is right for your project?
If you want to work quickly, accurately and efficiently → Frame
scaffolding is perfect for façades, standard projects and large work areas.
If you need to build complex, bespoke or technically challenging structures → Modular
scaffolding: unbeatable for curved surfaces, industrial facilities, indoor areas or special structures.
Price examples for complete scaffolding systems from the CETRAC range:
Standard manufacturer
*As at 04/2026 Prices may vary – All prices exclude VAT and delivery charges
Price examples for complete scaffolding systems from the CETRAC range:
Premium manufacturer
*As at 04/2026 Prices may vary – All prices exclude VAT and delivery charges
Don’t want to do the maths yourself? Let our EasyFlow configurator do it for you in just a few minutes!
Whether it’s a frame or modular scaffolding:
an accurate cost estimate forms the basis of all material and cost planning.
Mit EasyFlow, dem digitalen Gerüstflächen‑Konfigurator der CETRAC GmbH,
kannst du deine Fläche in nur 3 Schritten berechnen:
FAQ: Frame scaffolding vs. modular scaffolding – Everything you need to know
Der Hauptunterschied liegt im Aufbau: Das Rahmengerüst besteht aus festen Vertikalrahmen, was den Aufbau an geraden Fassaden extrem schnell macht. Das Modulgerüst hingegen nutzt einzelne Stiele mit Lochscheiben (Knotenpunkte). Dadurch ist es in alle Richtungen flexibel und kann auch an komplexe Gebäudeformen (Rundungen, Vorsprünge) perfekt angepasst werden.
Für Standard-Fassadenarbeiten wie Malerarbeiten, Dacharbeiten oder Wärmedämmung (WDVS) ist das Rahmengerüst fast immer die bessere Wahl. Es ist leichter, besteht aus weniger Einzelteilen und lässt sich deutlich schneller aufbauen, was dir wertvolle Arbeitszeit spart.
A modular scaffolding system requires more materials. The joints (perforated discs) and the greater flexibility necessitate a more robust construction to withstand extremely high loads. As it is indispensable in specialist construction and industry, it also has a very high resale value.
Beim "Meter machen" an einer geraden Wand gewinnt das Rahmengerüst haushoch. Da die Rahmen das Rastermaß fest vorgeben, steht das Gerüst fast wie von selbst. Das Modulgerüst erfordert durch die vielen Einzelverbindungen mehr Planung und Zeit beim Aufbau, glänzt aber dort, wo das Rahmengerüst aufgrund der Geometrie aufgeben muss.
Yes, provided it is in perfect working order. At CETRAC, every component undergoes a quality control check. As modular scaffolding is made from solid, hot-dip galvanised steel, it is extremely durable. A second-hand branded scaffold (e.g. Layher Allround), provided it is in good condition, meets all safety standards and UVV requirements just like a new one.
This is where the modular scaffolding comes into its own. As it has no bulky frames but consists almost entirely of standard poles and ledgers, it can be bundled up very compactly. This saves space on the lorry or in the warehouse. System scaffolding is slightly more bulky to load due to its rigid frames.
Das kommt auf deine Aufträge an. Wenn du nur gerade Fassaden machst: Nein, bleib beim Rahmengerüst. Wenn du jedoch oft in der Industrie arbeitest, Kamine einrüstest oder Traggerüste für schwere Lasten baust, ist das Modulgerüst eine Investition, die sich durch die Vielseitigkeit schnell amortisiert.