A Comaprative Study On The Use Of Bamboo Vs. Coco Lumber As Exterior Scaffolding

Bamboo is widely recognized as one of the most important non-timber forest resources due to the high socio-economic benefits from bamboo based products. It is the world's fastest growing woody plant. Bamboo grows three times faster than most other species. Apart from the other substances already in practice, bamboo appears to be the most promising material. Bamboo building construction is characterized by a structural frame approach similar to that applied in traditional timber frame design and construction. Bamboo is ideal for exterior scaffolding because it is strong, resilient and light weighted. Coconut, as we all know, is the proud owner of the distinction "Tree of Life." The tree provides mankind with food, shelter, furniture, novelty items, fuelwood, household implements, and important industrial products. In the Philippines, the decade of the 80's saw lumber from coconut becoming a popular alternative to lumber from traditional wood species. This was brought about mainly by the ban on logging of Philippine forests. Compared with conventional lumber, coco lumber is more available and affordable. However, it is structurally unique and thus needs serious study and consideration. Using green building materials and products promotes conservation of declining non-renewable resources. Bamboo and Coco lumber as a construction material is popular in Southeast Asia. It is environmentally friendly and a renewable resource. This study introduces the usage of bamboo and coco lumber in the construction industry, especially as exterior construction scaffolding. Bamboo and Coco lumber will continue to play an important part in the construction industry.