Ringlock vs Cuplock Scaffolding — What’s the Difference?

If you’re arranging scaffolding hire for your next construction or refurbishment project, you may have heard terms like Ringlock and Cuplock.
Both are popular modular scaffolding systems used throughout the UK, but they have different strengths and ideal applications.

At B-MAT Scaffolding, we use and supply both systems across London, Essex and Hertfordshire — and this guide explains what sets them apart, how each works, and which is right for your job.

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What Is Cuplock Scaffolding?

Cuplock (sometimes written “Cup-Lock”) was developed by SGB in the 1950s and quickly became a global industry standard. It’s a modular system, meaning components slot together in a predefined way rather than relying on separate clamps or fittings.

Key features of Cuplock:

• Vertical standards have fixed “cups” every 500mm.

• Horizontal ledgers and braces fit into the lower cup and are locked by twisting the upper cup into place.

• Strong, quick to assemble, and very uniform.

Advantages of Cuplock scaffolding:

• Fast erection and dismantling with minimal loose parts

• Excellent load-bearing capacity — ideal for heavy-duty or industrial work

• Highly stable and consistent, making it perfect for long, straight façades

• Cost-effective for repetitive or large-scale structures

You’ll often see Cuplock systems used on new builds, façade access, and heavy masonry work.

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What Is Ringlock Scaffolding?

Ringlock scaffolding is a newer modular system, designed to be even more flexible and adaptable to complex structures. Instead of cups, the standards (verticals) feature rosettes or “rings” spaced every 500mm.
Ledgers and braces attach using wedge-head connections that lock securely into the rosette.

Advantages of Ringlock scaffolding:

• Exceptional flexibility — allows angled connections for complex or irregular shapes

• Faster and easier assembly with fewer parts than traditional tube-and-fitting

• Lightweight yet extremely strong, often using high-grade steel or aluminium

• Excellent for bridges, curved façades, roof works, and heritage projects

Ringlock has become the modern go-to choice for sites requiring adaptable access and clean aesthetics.

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Ringlock vs Cuplock — Key Differences

Both systems meet British and European safety standards when correctly erected and inspected.

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Which System Should You Choose?

Your choice depends on the project:

• Domestic or standard building façades: Cuplock is cost-effective, strong, and reliable.

• Complex rooflines, chimneys, or restoration work: Ringlock’s flexibility and lighter components make it ideal.

• Industrial projects or long runs: Cuplock offers uniformity and heavy-duty strength.

• Bespoke architectural or temporary public structures: Ringlock provides design versatility.

Our experienced team will always recommend the most efficient and safe system for your site.

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Why B-MAT Scaffolding?

With years of experience across London, Essex and Hertfordshire, B-MAT Scaffolding supplies and installs both Ringlock and Cuplock systems.
We design every scaffold to TG20:21 standards and can advise on:

• System suitability and load requirements

• Design drawings and safety calculations

• On-site erection, inspection, and dismantling

• Short-term or long-term hire options

Whatever your project, we’ll ensure you get the best combination of safety, speed, and value.

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Get Expert Advice or a Free Quote

Not sure which scaffolding system you need?
Contact B-MAT Scaffolding today for friendly, expert advice. We’ll assess your project and recommend the right solution — whether that’s Cuplock, Ringlock, or a custom hybrid system.

Serving homeowners, builders, and commercial clients across London, Essex and Hertfordshire, we make scaffolding safe, simple, and cost-effective.