It is that when constructing a large structure or a building, there are many steps involved to make it strong and durable. One of the processes involved includes formwork. Formwork is the art of using a temporary structure to hold concrete either permanently or temporally. The temporal formwork means that the material used can be moved easily. This is done when the main concrete structure is firm and in place.
Formwork has allowed constructors to pour concrete that gives the structure a bearing and strong stability. Depending on the design of the building, the formwork can be removed. It can also be left on the out or in to enhance strength. Different types of formwork can be used depending on nature, the purpose of the structure also not forgetting the budget of the project.
Types of Formwork for concrete structures
- Foundation Formwork
- Wall Formwork
- Ceiling Formwork
- Beam Formwork
- Column Formwork
Benefits of Using Formwork in Concrete Structures
The following are some of the benefits of using formwork for concrete structures.
1. Formwork for Concrete Structures are Quick and Time-Saving
With formwork, builders can build the structure quickly once assembled. The concrete is poured onto the construct created the job is done and now is to wait for it to dry up. This means different sides of the building can be done in a very short time. In doing so, the formwork can be applied horizontally and vertically to support floating roofs. This has made it easy for structures to be fabricated to many designs.
2. Formwork for Concrete Structures presents Strength and Beauty
Other than stability and beauty, the formwork can also be used to make patterns while using concrete. A reclaimed wood when used as formwork it gives a super wood grain finish to the structure. When constructing a slab, building, or wall you can choose to use various types of formwork depending on your ability to cut down on cost.
3. Flexible Formwork for Concrete Structures
Formworks can be fixed easily. they are flexible to dismantle as most of the materials used are readily available. The most commonly used formwork is timber which is also known as traditional formwork because it was used from ancient times.
4. Good Thermal and Smoothness
For concrete not to get damaged in colder regions, the use of timber is highly recommended because it has good thermal resistance. Plywood as formwork material is increasing this is because they provide a smooth finish as compared to the use of normal timber which also reduces the cost of finish.
5. Formwork for Concrete Structures has Excellent Finish
The use of steel formwork material is a bit costly but can be used severally as compared to timber; they give an excellent finish on the concrete structures. For uniformity and smoothness steel can be the ideal formwork material.
6. Formwork for Concrete Structures are Safe
The safety of workers in any construction site is paramount. Formwork provides orderly and accessibility of working platforms that ensure all workers are safe during construction. Modern formwork also ensures the safety of the structure by giving out custom solutions with regards to all superimposed loads and gives safe and sustainable structures.
7. Formwork for Concrete Structures are Re-Usable
Formwork material can be re-cycled. Once the materials are used they can be re-cycled to mount up another wall, slab, or floor when the other structure is in place. The use of formwork gives builders enough time to either permanently or temporally remove the formwork materials once are set.