Formwork hire for foundations, walls and slabs
The type of formwork depends on what you are pouring
A strip foundation needs panels that form the sides of the trench. Walls need panel formwork with ties. A slab needs props (telescopic supports), beams and a deck of laminated plywood. So the structure comes first in your request, and its size comes second.
The ceiling height decides the length of the props. For 3 m, you pick props that extend to the height you need, and add beams and tripods. If the ceiling is higher, you need a different type of prop.
What to put in your request
- Type of formwork — walls, slab, foundation, columns, props.
- Area — square metres of formwork or slab, number of props.
- Height — of walls or ceiling, to choose the props.
- System — steel or aluminium panel, telescopic props, beams.
- Period — for a month or longer; concrete does not gain strength in a day.
- Installation — whether you need a crew for assembly and dismantling or will do it yourself.
- Delivery — to the site and back.
- Deposit — whether you will leave one or want none.
- Site address and budget.
Example request
“I need slab formwork for 120 sq m with a ceiling height of 3 m: telescopic props, beams and laminated plywood, for 1 month. Sydney, delivery to the site needed, I will do the installation myself. Budget up to $720 per month.”
How not to go wrong on period and set
Formwork can be removed only after the concrete has gained the required strength. For a slab this time is longer than for walls, and it depends on temperature and the concrete grade. So do not plan a short period “just in case”: it is cheaper to take extra time than to pay for an extension at the last minute.
Compare offers by the set. One may include only props, another props, beams and plywood. Ask about the number of times the plywood has been used: new or good plywood gives a cleaner concrete surface. Also find out who is responsible for damage to the panels and whether there is a fine for concrete left on them.
Common mistakes
- Not counting the props: a slab needs many, and too few is a risk.
- Not checking the geometry of the panels and the state of the locks.
- Not agreeing on the return: who dismantles, who cleans and to whom you hand it back.
Show the drawing or the plan to the hire company, so it can choose the right system. This answers most questions.
How BlaBlaPrice helps
You write one request, and companies that hire out formwork reply in the chat: the set, price, installation, delivery. They see where their offer stands and compete on terms. Contacts stay hidden until you choose. Details: how it works. For work at height you will also need scaffolding hire and concrete mixer and plate compactor hire.
Questions and answers
For how long should I take slab formwork?
It depends on the concrete and the temperature; people usually plan for several weeks. Check with your designer or builder, and add a margin.
Do I need installation by the hire company?
Either way works. If you assemble it yourself, ask for instructions and a diagram, and if you need a crew, say so in your request.
How do I calculate the formwork area?
For walls it is the perimeter multiplied by the height, on both sides. For a slab it is the area of the slab. If you are not sure, send the drawing or give the dimensions.
Can I hire formwork without a deposit?
Some owners allow it, others require one. Write about it in your request and compare the replies.
