What is slab formwork and how to choose it?

Modern monolithic construction involves the installation of reinforced concrete structures. During the installation process, a special crane is used, which lays the slabs. They can also be filled with a mixture of concrete. Scaffolding and other supporting structures may be required for the work to be efficient and of high quality. The slab formwork is very important, which is why special requirements are imposed on its quality.

What criteria must the floor formwork meet?

Monolithic floors experience significant loads, which is why it is necessary to pour concrete as efficiently and responsibly as possible. Among the main criteria that the formwork of slabs must meet include:

• High margin of safety, because the mass of the slurry falls on the formwork components together with the mass of the reinforcement.
• Safety and strength. It is necessary to provide the necessary indicators of the rigidity of the base where the workers will move.
• Ability to use many times. Removable systems must withstand at least a hundred pour cycles.
• Ease of installation and dismantling. When the concrete mortar hardens, the structural elements should be easily removed so that they can be reused later.
• Preservation of integrity in almost any conditions, even under the influence of significant loads.
• Bending resistance.

The formwork may differ according to the material of production. A wooden system is considered an inexpensive and easy option. But it does not have the best indicators of strength and duration of use, it can absorb moisture. There is also plastic, which is lightweight and does not absorb moisture, but does not have high strength. Steel is a universal solution for formwork, can withstand a couple of hundred work cycles. But it weighs quite a lot, which is why it is not very actively used in private construction. There is also a combined version, which is made from different materials.

Removable for multiple use. When the solution has completely solidified, you can dismantle it. The process usually takes up to one month. It is advantageous to purchase such formwork for companies that are engaged in a full cycle of construction work. Fixed, which after pouring and drying the solution becomes one with the foundation. It is impossible to carry out work on dismantling after drying. But it performs the role of a hydro and heat-insulating layer. This design is useful for the construction of private one-story houses.

What are the types of formwork systems?

If you need to create columns, pour the foundation, this type of formwork becomes the best solution. There are several basic types of construction, including:

Benefits of horizontal slab formwork

It is an almost indispensable component when carrying out work in monolithic construction. The main advantages of this option include:

The ability to implement a wide variety of projects, even the most non-standard ones. This is due to the possibility of formwork being installed in different forms. Increasing the strength of the floor, because the use of a horizontal system eliminates the formation of seams, joints. Long service life. High-quality formwork of a removable type can be used at least hundreds of times, which has a direct impact on economic benefits. Monolithic structures of a rigid type are very durable and reliable, eliminating the possibility of floor displacements in different directions.