Home Garden

How to Pump Concrete Into Formwork Projects

While there are many ways to work with or form concrete, concrete formwork is a common method. Formwork is accomplished by making pre-fabricated forms into which you pour concrete. The form is then removed once the concrete has sufficiently hardened. Commercial contractors often use steel forms; however, simple wooden forms can be used for concrete projects around your home. Once your formwork is ready, a concrete mixer truck can deliver and pour the concrete directly into your forms.

Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare any existing surfaces for the concrete by trimming the surface or installing vent tubes to prevent air from becoming trapped inside the concrete if the concrete is being poured for repair work.

    • 2

      Inspect the forms to be certain they are level and measured correctly.

    • 3

      Attach any necessary sleeves, fasteners and braces if your concrete will be attached to other existing concrete or brick.

    • 4

      Wet the area with a garden hose before beginning to pump the concrete.

    • 5

      Pump the concrete into the forms starting at the lowest point and moving up in the form. The driver of the mixer truck will actually pump the concrete. The concrete will flow down the trough and into your formwork directly from the truck. The only thing you will need to do it direct the driver when to start and stop pumping the concrete.