Formwork and Shuttering are two common terms used in the field of Construction industry. If you read about architecture and construction related content more, you will come across these two words more often.
In recent times, these two words are used interchangeably. Many of them often get mistaken between these two words. If you want to know the difference between Formwork and Shuttering, keep reading the entire blog.
To begin with, let’s first understand the meaning of Formwork and Shuttering
Formwork is the process of creating a mould into which concrete is poured and formed. Formwork is fabricated using timber, but it can also be constructed from steel, glass fibres or other materials.
Shuttering is defined as the moulds that are used to hold the wet concrete in one place until the concrete has set.
The process of Formwork and Shuttering is quite similar and accomplish the same objective. The only difference between these two terms is that the materials used in the process are different. If you are in search of some good formwork companies to get your construction done, just check out this link www.formworkcontractorssydney.com/ and they will suffice all your needs.
First let’s take a clear understanding about Formwork
Formwork is a temporary structure, which is used as a mould to pour the concrete. It is kind of a horizontal or vertical arrangement which is made to keep concrete intact in position until it gains strength and shape.
In Formwork, firstly, the desired mould is prepared using iron or steel, and then formwork is fixed in the right position, without any gaps to pour the concrete.
Generally, formwork is removed once the concrete has gained sufficient strength, or in some cases, it may be left in place as a permanent arrangement.
Importance of Formwork :
- Formwork helps in lowering the timeline and cost of the project
- Formwork is irreplaceable, no other technology can replace formwork.
- Formwork helps in producing a smooth finished surface of the concrete.
- Formwork helps in providing good structural safety by offering solutions against all overlay loads.
Shuttering
Shuttering is considered to be the most important task that must be properly completed to avoid expensive problems in construction. It is usually made of timber or plywood.
Shuttering is sometimes also called a derivative of Formwork. It is a vertical temporary arrangement which is arranged to bring concrete in any desired shape and size. Formwork which is used for columns, footings, or retaining walls is called Shuttering.
It is essential to choose the right framework to complete any shuttering task.
There are majorly four types of shuttering.
- Timber Shuttering : Timber shuttering is known to be the most traditional choice. It is the most highly used one as it can be constructed to accommodate any situation
- Plywood Shuttering : Plywood shuttering is known to be the cheaper option, as plywood can be reused or recycled
- Steel Shuttering : Steel shuttering can be fabricated in large numbers in any shape or size. These are most suitable for circular or curved structures.
- Plastic Shuttering : Plastic shuttering is used for quick pores of concrete and it is best suited for low-cost and repetitive structures.
Among these, timber and plywood shuttering are the most commonly used ones in construction sites.
To sum it up all, there is not a major difference between Formwork and Shuttering. The only significant difference found between them is the kind of material used in the process.
