Concrete Formwork Types

Slab Forms

• The most common material used with forming concrete is wooden frames. Pouring concrete for slabs, sidewalks and patios less than 6 inches thick, use wooden forms to aid in shaping and retaining the material. Since the ground supports most of the concrete's weight, wooden forms are more economical than other materials.

Wall Forms

• The greater the volume of concrete used in a pour, the higher the force exerted on the retaining form. Structures such as walls need a stronger form to retain the desired shape. For this type application, steel is normally required. Steel ties improve the steel's strength.

Insulated Forms

• The drive toward more energy efficient homes have helped to bring about insulated concrete forms. Often called ICFs and constructed of plastic foam, the forms interlock together onto the home's slab to form a hollow wall. Concrete is poured into the hollow space where it sets up. The insulated form remains in place to serve as additional insulation for the home. Buildings constructed with insulated concrete walls are much more energy efficient than those built with traditional wooden frames.

Decorative Forms

• Concrete countertops, sinks, furniture and other nontraditional structures are increasingly popular. Forms used to shape decorative concrete are lined with material such as melamine laminated board and acrylic glass to create a smooth, finished concrete surface. Pouring concrete upside down into forms containing shapes either carved or built in the lining provides a unique decorative effect.