How Can I Make a Cost-Conscious Formwork Plan?

Without a financially savvy plan, the costs of concrete formwork can quickly add up. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to minimize costs and boost the overall efficiency of your formwork. Here are some pocketbook-friendly pro tips to help you get the most out of forming:

• Evaluate options before investing.

Ideally, you want to invest in the most efficient formwork for your individual project. There are likely many new and used options on the market that will work, but you should be discerning about which formwork you choose. Keep in mind that the formwork with the cheapest upfront cost isn’t necessarily the most cost-conscious option in the long run, especially if it increases labor costs due to factors like being time-consuming to install or strip.

• Consider buying used.

The Eiffel Trading marketplace is a hotspot for both buying and selling used concrete formwork. Our inventory is ever-growing, and includes various formwork options including overhang brackets, stripping buggies, various types of concrete formwork systems, and more. Purchasing used (instead of new) can save you tens of thousands of dollars on a system that will still last for years to come. This is a great option for any contractor looking to save money on concrete project costs!

• Get a professional opinion.

Make sure someone who’s highly experienced with formwork evaluates possible formwork options before you make any investments.

• Keep it simple.

The easier it is to erect and remove, the better. Additionally, it should be easy to use once erected. You want to be able to pour the concrete efficiently and depend on the formwork to do its job. Formwork that decreases labor time decreases costs and vice versa.

• Consider ergonomics.

Formwork that’s lightweight and easy to work with is ideal. Heavy, unwieldy formwork can cause difficulties and ultimately be more time-consuming to use. Additionally, it may lead to more safety risks and issues.

• Minimize assembly costs.

It helps if formwork is standardized and uses sizes that are standard to the industry. Custom formwork and formwork that requires modification onsite can increase both the cost of labor and the cost of materials. At times custom formwork must be used, but it’s best to avoid it if the project does not specifically require it.

• Opt for reusable options.

Engineered (steel and aluminum) forms are a great choice because they can be used and re-used over and over again for different areas of projects without having to be replaced. Additionally, engineered forms can be sold to another if no longer needed after projects are complete, and they hold onto their value quite well.

• Consider other, project-specific factors.

Your cost-conscious formwork plan should include factors like crane availability, ease of access to the job site, and the number of employees assigned to the job as well as the level of employee experience. Additionally, you should have a clear-cut schedule in place for formwork-related components of your project and do your best to incorporate ways to avoid delays into your overall plan.

Final Thoughts

Decrease your overall project costs by picking the best formwork for the job. Oftentimes, paying a little more upfront is the better financial decision, especially if you can sell the formwork or continue to use it for future projects. You ultimately should strive to invest in formwork that boosts both productivity and safety. If in doubt, consult with an experienced professional who can help you find the best forms for your project.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

With both new and used heavy civil material and equipment inventory, Eiffel Trading is preferred marketplace! Our equipment offerings include concrete formwork systems, overhang brackets, sectional barges, foundation equipment, and so much more. Additionally, our material inventory ranges from HDPE pipe, to steel pipe pile, and everything in between.

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.