Types of Shuttering in the Construction Domain

In the present times, many workers may encounter issues when the concrete is not supported during its curing phase. Moreover, if the concrete doesn’t set precisely, then it can lead to weak structural elements. But, did you know that shuttering can support concrete structures? Well, check out this article to know more about the types of shuttering.

Why is shuttering important at construction sites?

When workers are building something with concrete, shuttering offers temporary support. This enables it to support wet concrete till it takes the desired form. Moreover, the workers can expect a sturdy concrete structure when the support is present. But, in today’s world, you will come across different types of shuttering. These are set depending on the purposes. 

What is the main role of shuttering?

As and when people progress with construction using concrete, shuttering acts as a formwork. Once it’s set up around beams, slabs, and walls, it will ensure that the fluid concrete is in its place. Thus, there are less chances of the concrete losing its shape. On the other hand, if the temporary support is not set properly, then it can lead to unexpected accidents. The structure that needs to be built through concrete will also collapse with time. 

What to consider before choosing suitable shuttering materials?

Before you make any purchase, you must be aware of the overall cost. Besides, the shuttering material must also be capable of offering support. Expenses associated with labor also must be considered before choosing a material. In addition, certain requirements also have to be taken into account.

What materials are commonly used in shuttering?

At construction sites, you will observe shuttering materials in different forms. But, among the most common ones, you will come across plastic, plywood, timber, and steel. Furthermore, construction teams prefer using steel shutterings. These are often used because they are durable and they can be used repeatedly. Now, let’s check the types of shuttering.

Timber Shuttering

Construction teams always use timber shuttering because it’s cost-effective. Such a type of shuttering is also easier to use. But, as the shuttering doesn’t last for a long time, these are not ideal for large projects. They can only be used for small-scale projects and for around 10 times.

Steel Shuttering 

Over the years, this type of shuttering has become popular at construction sites. Apart from their durability, these can be reused several times. As you observe a steel shuttering, these have thin steel plates connected with small angles. Just because they are large in size, they can hold a large quantity of concrete. However, some insulation systems may offer insulation along with shuttering. 

Plywood Formwork

Plywood shuttering is yet another type that is affordable. In fact, it is considered an alternative to timber shuttering. In addition to being strong, it is also light in weight. Once the team uses this shuttering, it can offer a smooth finish to the concrete elements. Workers will no longer have to bother about any treatment for a finish. 

Plastic Shuttering 

Among the types of shuttering, the one made from plastic is suitable for low-cost housing. As these are made of high-quality plastic, they are supposed to be lightweight. Further ahead, these can help save more as they need less concrete for the desired designs. 

What are the different shuttering techniques?

Shuttering techniques are usually followed only for certain requirements. These may include supporting the foundation, slab, walls, and columns. But, when you observe a technique, the team uses a certain type of material.

Foundational Shuttering

This shuttering is set up based on the type of foundation. For instance, the formwork for private and strip foundations may not be the same. It will entirely depend on the height. 

Column Shuttering

Shuttering is also established for columns. During the setup process, the workers set up panels with the help of bolts. This helps to sustain the pressure of side forces in concrete columns. 

Wall shuttering 

When these are used, the main purpose is to build RCC. You will usually observe this when basements and dams need support. Moreover, it’s important to set up wall shuttering properly due to less pressure from the lateral loads. 

Slab Shuttering

Under the types of shuttering, this is widely used in RCC-framed buildings. Besides, the entire process helps to build horizontal members. It can also offer support temporarily to concrete before it becomes hard.

What are the innovative shuttering systems?

In the current era, innovative shuttering systems have existed to support complex structures. While these serve the usual role, they are also based on the latest technologies. Hence, the team can expect enhanced efficiency and save more on costs.

Tunnel Formwork

This formwork enables the slabs and walls to be cast with just one approach. The method also offers accuracy and speed with the required flexibility at the site. Hence, this is used for projects in which the same structure has to be formed time and again.

Fabric Shuttering

Such a kind of formwork embraces a technique to develop unique shapes. These also require relatively less amount of concrete than the usual systems. As a result, the team can save the costs to a certain extent.

Permanent Insulated Shuttering

As you can figure out through the name, this formwork offers insulation while supporting the walls. Once it’s set up, it serves as a surface for the finish. Apart from offering insulation for a long period, these prevent damage due to fire and rodents.  

What are the best practices followed for shuttering?

To ensure great results, many practices are followed while setting up shuttering. Right from the time of planning to removal, these will surely ensure safety and quality. 

Proper Surveillance

Before setting up shuttering, it’s essential to survey the site properly. This will help in aligning the structure properly. Ways beyond, it’s important to assess the materials, the concrete type, and the formwork size before shuttering. 

Removing the formwork at the suitable time

Suitable formwork can always keep the concrete intact at the site. But, when it’s time to remove the formwork, the concrete must have surpassed a minimum strength. This must be equivalent to two times the strain it’s subjected to earlier.

Quality Control

To ensure compliance, inspections should also be conducted regularly. This will prevent flaws and will ensure that the facility is playing its role. 

Summary 

Finally, we would like to state that shuttering is important at construction sites. As it acts as a temporary support, it helps the concrete to take the desired shape. But, before you choose from the types of shuttering, keep the project requirements in mind. Innovation can also help to accomplish results when the project is executed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is shuttering and its types?

Shuttering is a temporary structure that workers build to support fluid concrete. Among the types of shuttering, you will come across steel, timber, and plastic shuttering. Besides, people also use plywood formwork to offer support to the concrete structure.  

2. What are the different types of formwork?

There are many types of formwork used in the construction sector. These include timber, steel, plastic, and plywood formwork. However, you must use a formwork only depending on the project type. 

3. Which shuttering is better?

People always prefer setting up steel shuttering. This is known for its durability and strength. Apart from this, workers can use the shuttering time and again. It is also ideal for large-scale projects because it can sustain enormous loads. 

4. What is the difference between shuttering and formwork? 

In general terms, formwork is the process of creating a mold for concrete. But, shuttering comes under formwork because it’s a temporary mold itself.