Concrete Forming – Steps to Build Concrete Forms

Concrete Forming – Steps to Build Concrete Forms

Constructing concrete forms is a simple job that any DIY-minded person may do. Concrete forms may be used for foundations for any kind of structure. Whether you need a form for a shed, gazebo or playhouse, it’s a good way to pour as well as level your foundation easily.

Below are the steps involved in the process of creating concrete forms:

Mark Every Dimension

The first step in using your string lines and stakes is basically to determine the required outside measurements for slab and the height. It’s impressive that every string is pulled tight to make sure that there is a straight and even grade of concrete.

Select Wood for Floorboard

If the measurements are recorded, bottom wooden slab should be constructed for the form. Cut the wood’s slab that would act as the floorboard for the whole structure of slab. The perfect bottom piece will be a straight and flat piece of wood, which does not have a lot of knots. It also makes the process to form the slab much easier since you will not need to worry about imperfections in the lumber that disfigures the concrete.

Add Stakes

It is time to cut wood and make more stakes for corners. Each corner should have stakes and an additional stake must be placed every several inches at the center to ensure the bottom slab is fastened securely. Take note that slabs that would be thick should have high stakes density to support the form properly.

Match the Center Stakes to String Line

This step is an essential one. So, make sure that you pay attention to this. It’s definitely crucial that the line up of the stakes with string line you made during the second and first steps of the project. Without this combination, your concrete form would be unstable and uneven. If the form is not already lined up with string line, just pack the soil around stakes so form will move out or in depending on the direction you want to maneuver them.

Reinforce the Form

As extra precaution to maintain the integrity of the form, you must use extra boards that are nailed to the structure for extra support. This reinforcement will provide you peace of mind that regardless of the intended structure’s weight, it will not fall crack or through. If you’re positive that the concrete form is even and straight, it’s time to start the process of pouring.

Pour the Cement

Just pour the concrete to the form steadily and slowly. For projects like this, it’s always best to steer clear of the quick dry formulas of cement. Quick-dry formulas may end up causing more job for you since you will need more time to pour and even the cement. See to it that you pay attention to it for you to ensure that falling concrete has not knocked on the strings. It’s also essential to never forget the strings that are in the marker for form’s correct height.