What is Formwork?

Essentially, formwork refers to the temporary or permanent mold into which concrete is poured and removed from it. It acts as a framework to hold the concrete in place and ensures that it sets in the desired shape. Formwork can be used to create walls, columns, slabs, and other structural elements as required in residential and commercial construction. Timber, steel, and engineered wood are common materials used for formwork; each has its strengths, and the option chosen depends on the project's demands.

Specialist Formwork Contractors Cambridgeshire

Formwork Contractors is an independent construction, formwork, and reinforcement contractor in Cambridgeshire. We take pride in delivering high-quality work in Formwork, Reinforcement, and Concrete. Our company focuses on providing the highest quality work and standards with a positive and capable approach. We employ an experienced team with over two decades of expertise, ensuring you can rely on it for high-quality service and competitive rates. Formwork Contractors believes that excellent Health and safety standards are paramount. We employ a fully accredited Health and safety company to monitor our compliance, and all employees have undergone the necessary training and hold valid CSCS cards.

The Process of Formwork Construction

Formwork construction begins with a thoughtful design, laying the foundation for reinforced concrete development. These foundations are commonly referred to as pile caps. The reinforced steel will be carefully designed and securely tied together.

Next, the formwork will be meticulously designed and constructed to the required specifications, and the concrete will be poured. The ground beams will then be added to tie the pile caps together, and a reinforced concrete slab will be poured over them, providing a solid base for the rising elements. These rising elements are the formwork structures that form the development shell.

Reinforced steel bars will protrude through the concrete slab in the designated positions where the rising elements, such as columns, stair cores, lift cores, and walls, are designed to be placed. Each component will have its formwork design and may include additional features as required.

Finally, a concrete slab will be added as a precast unit or an in-situ concrete deck, which Formwork Contractors will cast. This formwork system is both time-efficient and cost-effective when addressing multi-story buildings.