Formwork contractors set up forms for concrete pouring and may also offer related services. They survey job sites, review plans, and require an understanding of concrete and building codes. They may work on complex projects and use a variety of materials for forms. Careful planning is important to avoid delays and mistakes.
A formwork contractor sets up the necessary forms for concrete pouring, and companies that offer formwork contracting may also have related services such as excavation, structural steel installation, and installation of other building components. People working in this field can be employed by specific companies and sent to job sites as needed, or they can work as freelancers. They advertise their services and take on work upon request from construction companies, contractors wishing to subcontract work, and direct clients.
When formwork contractors arrive at the jobsite, they survey the area to gather the information needed to develop the forms. They also review construction plans, which can be prepared with input from engineers to confirm that they are sound and adequate. Working as a formwork contractor requires an understanding of concrete and structural elements such as rebar, along with building code and industry standards and practices. Forms need to be able to securely hold the concrete in place while it sets and must provide sufficient shape and thickness to adhere to code.
This job is not entirely about mathematical calculations and consulting building plans. A formwork contractor can also work on projects that may require some degree of artistry, such as curved and unusually shaped concrete installations. In these cases, part of the work may include a strategy for achieving the desired shape, which may include complex custom forms. People with more experience tend to take on these tasks because they require advanced skills.
Site preparation for a formwork contractor can include digging, installing gravel and other drainage, and careful measuring before starting work. Posts can be installed to hold the forms, which can be made from a variety of materials. Some companies work with reusable forms that fit in a variety of configurations for different projects. They can be more convenient to use, although they may require some customization for challenging environments.
Once everything is in place, the formwork contractor checks and confirms with other employees to ensure it meets the need. Concrete can be poured and cured before the contractor removes the forms and the team moves on to the next aspect of the project. Careful planning is an important part of contracting formwork because crews want to be sure the concrete installation doesn’t create a delay on the job site, while still working carefully to reduce the risk of mistakes. Once the concrete is poured and set, it can be difficult and expensive to redo the work.
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