How to do formwork for a concrete slab (foundation, slab, post, beam, seal, etc.) In wood or steel, the formwork is important until the concrete pour into it is completely dry. The solidity of the concrete depends partly on the formwork and this structure is perfectly carried out in the rules of art for an optimal result. How to do formwork for a Precast Girder Slab? Here are some tips.
Concrete formwork: Gather the necessary equipment
The concrete form requires some specific materials, starting with wooden planks. Some formwork is made of steel or glazed concrete parts, but this type of material is usually intended for large construction sites. Wooden boards are more than sufficient for a basic formwork. It’s also not worth buying new boards if there are already some. It is enough that they are very solid. In any case, the minimum recommended thickness of the boards is 3cm.
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Good concrete formwork also requires reinforcement or welded mesh if you plan to pour reinforced concrete. As a reminder, these are crossed and simply welded reinforcement bars. Welded mesh is sold in sheets or rolls. There is a wide selection of sizes for tablecloths, the diameter of bars, etc. You need to find some that meet the specific needs of your site.
Other materials are also expected:
- Spirit level
- Pickets
- Rule of masonry
- Rope
- Oil of formwork
Formwork for a concrete slab: steps to follow
The first step is to prepare the soil. In clear terrain, mark the perimeter of the slab with stakes and ropes. Then dig within this delimitation, to a depth of 20cm. Of course, the bottom should be flat and clear. Next comes the validation of the shapes of the shapework boards depending on the shape provided for the concrete slab. So consider the expected length, width and depth of the slab. When the boards are selected, they should be fixed properly, using nails or screws. Is the site important and is the slab a big size? Stabilize boards with stakes to be planted outside of the formwork. It is also necessary to ensure that the angles are straight if the slab is square or rectangular. And finally, the trellis is installed once the boards are in place (if the site requires the use of trellis, obviously)
On the other hand, the concrete form considers a specific tendency to let the water flow. The calculation is based on 1cm of inclination per slab meter. In addition, note that a base of gravel and sand is required for the stability of the whole. You first need to pour a layer of gravel about 10cm thick and a layer of sand, a few inches thick. Compact everything with a lady. A manual woman is more than enough. Then check the flatness of the surface with the spirit level before pouring the concrete.
Don’t forget the stage of concrete form work for a clean and solid Precast girder slab. Many people do this kind of work, so why not? Requiring completeness and rigor, entrust the work to professionals if you have no knowledge of masonry.