What to Look for When Purchasing Used Concrete Formwork

Tips & Advice

Buying concrete formwork used as opposed to new can help you cut costs. Since engineered concrete forms can be used around 2,000 or more cycles before being scrapped, buying used is also a sustainable, eco-friendly choice in comparison to buying new. The amount of used forms on the market is growing, offering buyers numerous options to choose from to suit the needs of their individual applications. To get the most value from buying formwork used, there are a few things you should look for to help you rule out forms that may be out of shape or inadequate for your project. Below are some tips to help you find the right used forms:

  • Gauge how well forms have been maintained. If you aren’t able to inspect the forms in person before you buy, make sure you’re able to look at pictures of them. If they’re steel or aluminum, look for any signs of concrete residue, and be sure to ask the seller how they’ve been maintained and when release agents were last applied to them. If you’re buying plywood formwork, make sure the wood appears to be in good condition and has been oiled since the forms were last used.

  • Check for rusting, warping, and other damage. If formwork is damaged in a way that may compromise its ability to help you create the necessary concrete structures, it’s probably not worth the risk of investing in it, even if the price is right.

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  • Do a background check on when and how they’ve been used. Be aware of the length and frequency of past use. As mentioned, steel and aluminum forms can be used over and over again, but, at some point, they do begin to degrade and should be retired. The more you know about how and how many times forms have been used, the better.

  • Consider overall quality and value. If the formwork meets the needs of your project, is in good condition, and comes at a good price, it might be the perfect investment. While you may want to take things like brand name into consideration, keep in mind that top brands don’t always guarantee quality, especially if formwork hasn’t been maintained well.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to sellers and ask questions about the formwork you’re considering buying. The more you know about it, the better. Once you do purchase used formwork, be sure to properly inspect it in person before you use it. And don’t neglect to follow manufacturer’s recommendations for use as well as apply a release agent to make sure it’s oiled up and ready to go when the cement arrives to your project site.

In addition to buying used formwork, you may end up deciding to sell it once you’ve finished using it. Make sure you maintain it well, and you should be able to recoup a good portion of what you paid for it if you do decide to sell. Engineered formwork, in particular, retains its value exceptionally well. Overall, buying and selling used formwork is a sustainable and pocket-friendly choice.

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BUY AND SELL WITH EIFFEL TRADING

Eiffel Trading markets a wide array of concrete formwork, as well as other construction equipment including foundation equipment, truckable barges, and more. Furthermore, our material inventory includes used sheet pile, new and used wide flange beams, used barrier wall, 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 for free.

Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free 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.