If large slabs are spilled, such as garage floors or house foundations, a power trowel may be needed to finish.
Formwork lumber is a structural support for forms used in concrete projects. It can be used to form forms for pouring concrete or to support large panels to make a larger formwork installation. Depending on the materials used, it is possible to reuse wood between projects, especially if it is handled carefully. Hardware stores can offer a variety of woods suitable for this use, and you can also find manufactured wood products specifically designed for use in shapes.
Formwork lumber is a structural support for forms used in concrete projects.
Before concrete can be poured on a construction site, a form is needed to hold it in place while it hardens. The forms provide modeling and stability as the concrete hardens and begins the curing process. In traditional wood formwork, workers assemble a series of wooden boards to the desired height, connecting them to create a continuous shape for a project such as a low wall. Another option is to use panel materials such as plywood to make a smooth surface, supported by framing lumber to hold the lumber in place during the casting and curing process.
Before starting work on a project, workers can measure and lay out lines to define the gap and ensure the contours of any forms are plumb and square. Once they are done, they can start assembling the wood for the formwork to prepare the site. They make sure it is tall and deep enough to accommodate the concrete and can also add structural steel to support the concrete if needed for the project. Steel bars can stabilize and strengthen walls and floors that must withstand heavy loads to ensure they do not break under stress.
Smooth wood can be used for formwork lumber, along with engineered woods and plastic products. For plain wood, workers may treat it with oil or other materials before use to prevent sticking. This makes it easy to remove the forms after the project has hardened and also allows the wood to be reused in other projects. Wood tends to degrade quickly in many formwork uses unless treated. Construction companies may prefer engineered products that stand up better over time and are specifically designed to fit together so they can be assembled quickly and easily.
The best choice of materials for formwork timber can largely depend on the specifics of the project. For home improvement activities, collecting available wood and lubricating it for easy removal may be the most cost-effective solution. Construction companies that routinely work with concrete may want materials that are resistant to reuse, as they will have formwork needs in the future.