When it comes to concrete construction, formwork is essential to help you mould and build a proper structure for your concrete product. Formwork is a structural guide on how concrete should be poured so it hardens properly. In this blog, we’ll discuss the most important things you need to know about concrete forming before you tackle this exciting and challenging project.
1. Concrete Forms Help Concrete Set Properly
Formwork is what supports your concrete to harden into the right shape. In its initial form, concrete is a viscous material that can’t be held together in the desired shape by human hands and tools alone.
The right kind of formwork will help you harden your concrete into virtually any shape you’d like.
2. Timber Used for Formwork
While there are a few different materials you can use to build your framework, the most popular choice among contractors and DIY homeowners is timber or wood. That’s because timber is light, durable, flexible, and affordable.
If you’re worried about your timber soaking up too much water from the concrete, you can treat it with a special sealant before you use it in your concrete-forming project.
3. Other Materials Used
Steel, fibreglass and resin-bonded plywood are alternative materials you can use for concrete forming. Some are much stronger than timber and typically used in large-scale construction projects.
And while steel is ultra-durable, it may not be necessary for your project at home. That’s why it’s good to consult concrete experts at Trihill LTD before proceeding.
4. Concrete Formwork Must be Strong and Lightweight
Light and strong – these are the two most important factors when deciding how to construct your concrete form and what you will build it with.
Ensure that your formwork is supported vertically and horizontally so it doesn’t collapse and can retain its shape for the duration of the project you started.
5. Concrete Forms Create High-Quality Concrete
Try to build your formwork so it doesn’t bend, crack or slip and compromise the structural integrity of your concrete pour.
Concrete forms being light weight is nearly as important as strong construction because you need to be able to easily handle and carry the materials you’re working with. That’s why so many homeowners prefer to use timber over steel in this process.
6. Benefits of Steel
That being said, if you want your concrete project to last as long as possible and be guaranteed to pour right the first time, steel formwork is your best option.
Steel can also be reused for multiple projects and helps you cut down on costs if you happen to find yourself in that situation.
7. Importance of Formwork
Formwork is so versatile for all of your concrete construction project needs. Sometimes it’s poured between two insulating layers of a foundation for added strength and waterproofing.
Formwork is also a valuable asset for projects like a concrete pad under a shed, a new porch or securing posts for a new gate or fence.
Contact Us
Concrete is possible to pour and form on your own, but if you want the best results, leave it to concrete forming professionals at Trihill LTD. All of our crews come with extensive experience in concrete forming, concrete framework, and metal concrete forms.
Contact us today to learn more about our commercial concrete forming and residential concrete forming services.