Choosing the Right Material for Column Formwork

The quality and durability of column formwork is determined by the material you select for the project. If you have a say in column formwork selection, put some effort into researching material options. Choose wisely and the labor will be easier, the structure will be sounder and your client will be happy with the end result. 

Whether you work for a construction company, supplier, manufacturer or other related business, your choice of formwork material has a ripple effect throughout the entirety of the project. The efficiency and overarching success of the project is largely shaped by your choice of material, systems and equipment used for installation. 
Each unique formwork material has specific advantages. Some materials are ideal for specific construction needs while others are better for on-site conditions and nuanced client requirements. Choose wisely and your formwork will provide sufficient load-bearing capacity that supports the hefty weight of concrete without faltering. Such structural integrity is fundamental to the project’s success. 
The right material also provides dimensional stability to prevent distortion and warping when subjected to concrete pressure. Favor light material for formwork and you’ll find it is easier to handle during installation. The best formwork material is also leak-proof, providing comprehensive security. 
This is your guide to the different materials used for construction formwork projects, highlighting their nuanced merits and also some of their weak points. 

Concrete formwork is commonly used for columns as it is strong, durable and nearly indestructible. Reinforced concrete is especially sturdy. Whether the columns necessary for your project are small, midsize or large, you cannot go wrong with concrete. Sweat the small stuff during the installation process to prevent concrete formwork failure and this reliable material will provide solid support for decades to come. 

Timber is light in weight and more malleable than most assume. Choose timber for your formwork and you’ll be able to alter both height and size to your exact specifications. Timber is also appealing as it is affordable. However, timber isn’t as efficient as other materials for expansive projects. 
Moreover, if flexible formwork is required for elaborate concrete poured onto the site, timber is not the optimal material choice. One final caveat: if you elect to proceed with timber as your selected material, double-check it to guarantee it is not laden with termites. 

Formwork of the permanent insulation variety is concrete with polystyrene boards serving as the insulation and additional support. The purpose of insulating the formwork is to improve the energy efficiency of the structure. Polystyrene boards boost the structure’s energy efficiency while simultaneously enhancing fire resistance. The material is also highly resistant to invasive rodents. Shop around and you'll find advanced material options provide a plethora of additional benefits including fireproofing. Moreover, permanent insulated formwork dampens sound vibrations. 

Plywood is a manufactured wood material often used in combination with timber for a cohesive formwork system whole. Plywood is lightweight, durable, structurally sound and also features a smooth surface with an aesthetically pleasing finish

The plastic formwork system features interlocking components often referred to as modular components. If you are working on a relatively small project that requires repetitive formwork, plastic might be the best material. Plastic is lightweight, has an attractive surface finish and is cleaned with ease. The primary shortcoming with plastic formwork is it is typically prefabricated, meaning its flexibility is inherently limited. 

A project that requires durable and strong formwork that can stand the test of time should be built with steel or aluminum. Though these metals are typically more expensive and heavier than other materials, they minimize honeycombing, generate a smooth concrete surface and can even be used for curvature. If you prefer formwork that is light in weight, opt for aluminum over steel. If strength is the primary concern, choose steel. 

Formwork that stays in its current position is carefully designed to remain in place after concrete fully cures. Stay-in-place material bolsters reinforcement along with shear and axial strength. The stay-in-place variety also helps minimize environmental damage and corrosion. 
If your project requires columns or piers, consider stay-in-place formwork’s prefabricated components made of plastic and you’ll find they are surprisingly easy to assemble. The reliable structural support is an added bonus. 

If your project is characterized by distinct shapes and architectural qualities, give serious consideration to fabric as a material. Fabric formwork is becoming more popular with each passing year thanks to its dexterity. Fabric formwork consists of strong sheets for molding formwork. The sheets are easy to work with as they are light in weight, empowering you to design the project exactly as envisioned. 

Removable formwork is an option though such systems have the potential to damage the surface of the concrete. If you choose removable formwork, opt for one that is designed to permit damage-free removal that preserves concrete. 

Take your time when reviewing formwork material options. Consider a wide variety of factors including the project specifications, timeline for assembly and ability to function based on the project requirements. The best formwork construction is efficient to the point that it maintains its original shape. However, other nuances such as weight also matter. 
Be aware that formwork materials have the potential to be difficult to handle and install, necessitating specific equipment. Opt for a material that is light in weight and your work crew will be appreciative of its ease of handling during the transportation and installation processes. 
Though project costs are an important consideration, formwork durability and lifespan are more important. Weigh the benefits of fabrication and reuse with other factors such as the quality of the material finish and you'll make an educated decision with full confidence.