Eiffel 101: 5 Concrete Formwork Evaluation Steps
Properly evaluating concrete formwork during the planning stages of your concrete construction project is necessary to help you avoid unanticipated costs and delays due to inadequate forms or forms that are complicated to assemble and install. Below are five concrete formwork evaluation steps to help you during the planning stage:
1. Review Project Specifics
This should be the first step you take before deciding on any formwork for your project. You need to be aware of potential project site and project design difficulties. For instance, the type of formwork you are able to use may depend on factors like the amount of space to stage formwork. It’s a good idea to consult with concrete contractors about formwork choices too. Once you have a good idea of which types of formwork the project necessitates and any limitations that may narrow down your formwork options, you can proceed to finding the right formwork for the job.
2. Consider Pre-Assembly Requirements
It can save time and money to opt for pre-assembled/engineered forms that arrive ready to use. On the other hand, some projects require customized forms or forms that need to be modified upon arrival. When deciding on specific types of formwork, be aware of what best suits your project and your project timeline.
3. Assess Options
There are many ways to obtain the right concrete formwork system for your project needs, including working with a supplier, purchasing from an online marketplace, and more. Depending on your specific project needs, and online marketplace like Eiffel Trading may be a good fit! You have the option to save tens of thousands of dollars by purchasing used and surplus formwork systems through Eiffel Trading.
4. Figure Out Whether to Rent or Buy Forms
There are pros and cons to both options and what you decide should depend on your project needs. The duration of the project is an important consideration when deciding to rent or buy. For short-term projects, renting may be a good idea, for instance. For long-term projects that last several months, renting may not be as cost-effective. Keep in mind that although buying may cost more upfront, there are benefits to doing so. If you buy engineered forms, you can likely sell those after project completion if they’re no longer needed. Buying used as opposed to new is also a viable option that may help you cut costs.
5. Think About Safety
When researching potential formwork systems, don’t forget about safety. You should consider how safe forms are to assemble, install, and remove. Additionally, how safe formwork is to climb and where tie-off points are built into the forms can help you determine their overall safety profile. If you have any doubts about the safety profile of a specific formwork system, be sure to reach out to the formwork supplier with your concerns or to explore other options.
The type of formwork you invest in will largely depend on the unique needs of your project. In general, though, the steps above will help you evaluate formwork options and set you up for success once you begin concrete construction.
Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading
Eiffel Trading is a one-stop-shop for your heavy civil project needs! Our used equipment inventory ranges from concrete formwork systems, to drill rigs, to truckable push boats, and everything in between. Furthermore, we offer both new and used material options including used precast barrier wall, used sheet pile, brand new steel plates, and much more.
All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.
Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.