The Evolution of Formwork from Traditional to Modern Techniques

Formworks have been the backbone of the construction industry for centuries. From the early Roman Empire temples, citadels, and palaces, to the modern-day museums, bridges, and multi-storeyed apartments, formwork has remained a critical part of construction. However, the materials used for making the formworks have changed drastically. Here is how formworks evolved with time to assume its latest form.

Timber Forms

Initially, timber forms were the most widely used and the only alternatives available for construction works.  Manufacturing timber forms involved the felling of trees which resulted in a massive loss of green cover. Additionally, continuous exposure to sunlight and rain depleted the timber form quite fast. Therefore, a timber form was not fit for multiple uses.  

Metal Forms

When the number of construction works increased over time, people switched to metal formworks. Compared to timber forms, metal alternatives are durable and more weather-resistant. However, exposure to rainwater and sunlight corroded the metals sooner. Even though metal forms like Aluminium forms were stronger and more durable than timber alternatives. Construction workers could use them for multiple works.

Alloy Forms

Gradually metal forms got replaced by alloy forms like stainless steel ones. Stainless steel does not get rusted like other metals like aluminum and iron. Therefore, the durability of the forms increased. However, stainless steel was heavy and carrying it to places for installation was a hectic task.

Plastic Forms

Keeping all the challenges the earlier alternatives posed, science and technology continued with their quest for formworks that would be durable, weather-resistant, fire-proof, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight at the same time.

With the advent of the polymer revolution, plastic formworks evolved. With this invention, formwork in construction founded a new era.

The New Era Technique

Along with plastic forms, there emerged a number of other formworks that are perfect for a wide variety of modern-day construction requirements. Some of those latest formwork varieties are as follows.

●        Concrete Formwork: Insulated concrete formworks are one of the latest additions to the list of formworks. For schools, hospitals, offices, and residential places, this formwork remains the best alternative as it allows the inside temperature to remain less extreme than the atmospheric temperature.

●        Inflated Formwork: Inflated forms are not new to the construction industry. However, its application has become more relevant and useful for several projects following its latest up-gradation. As an eco-friendly alternative, several environmentally conscious projects use it extensively.

●        Flying Formwork: These are often plastic formworks that move between different storeys of high-rise buildings with the help of elevators and cranes.  Reusable and eco-friendly, this is perfect for large-scale projects.

●        Fabric Formwork: Fabric forms are also a modern innovation and extremely lightweight. These forms find extensive application in a wide range of construction works.

●        Wall Formwork: The tunnel form method is the most useful technique for erecting strong and durable walls, slabs, and beams. For tall buildings, this method is the best one. Aluminum forms are often the best choice for this technique.

NovaFormWorks is one of the most reputed names in the domain of formwork manufacturing. Its range of plastic formworks remains the perfect alternative for present-day construction projects. From building underground passages to skyscrapers, these formworks play a critical role in ensuring structural stability, strength and aesthetic excellence.