The Methods of Concrete Forming
When it comes to concrete construction, some of the things you don’t see can be just as important as what you do. Before concrete can be poured and shaped into a wall, slab, or column, it needs to be supported by a temporary mold — this is what we “In the Biz” call formwork. Choosing the right forming method can impact the strength, appearance, and overall quality of the finished product. Let’s explore some of the most common methods, starting with the basics.
Simple Plywood Forming
Plywood forms are one of the most traditional and cost-effective methods of concrete forming. This method uses sheets of plywood supported by wooden stakes, braces, or framing lumber to create a mold that holds the concrete in place as it cures.
Best for: Small slabs, patios, sidewalks, and basic walls.
Why choose it:
Affordable and easy to assemble
Great for one-off projects or irregular shapes
Widely available materials
Things to consider:
Plywood forms are often single-use, especially when exposed to moisture. They require careful bracing to avoid bowing or leaking.
Steel or Aluminum Form Systems
These reusable metal forms are commonly used on commercial or large residential projects. Unlike plywood, they’re durable and designed for repeated use, making them ideal for jobs where speed and consistency matter.
Best for: Foundations, walls, columns, and high-volume work.
Why choose it:
Clean, consistent finish
Strong and stable
Can be reused many times
Things to consider:
More expensive upfront, and they can be heavy to work with. But if you're doing repetitive work or large pours, the long-term value pays off.
Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)
ICFs are a modern forming method that combines forming and insulation into one system. Made from foam blocks or panels, these forms stay in place after the concrete sets, providing insulation for the finished wall.
Best for: Energy-efficient homes, basements, and structures where insulation is a priority.
Why choose it:
Provides built-in insulation
Speeds up construction time
Great for reducing heating/cooling costs
Things to consider:
ICFs can be more costly upfront and require some specialized training to install properly. However, long-term energy savings can offset the initial investment.
Plastic and Composite Forms
Made from high-strength plastic or fiberglass-reinforced composites, these systems are durable, lightweight, and reusable. They’re especially useful for producing decorative concrete elements like textured walls or columns.
Best for: Decorative work, curved designs, or specialty concrete shapes.
Why choose it:
Easy to clean and reuse
Lightweight compared to steel
Great for custom designs
Things to consider:
The cost can vary depending on the complexity of the design. Not as commonly used for basic flatwork or structural concrete.
Slip Forms and Climbing Forms
These are advanced systems used for continuous or vertical pours — think tall walls, bridges, or high-rises. Slip forms move slowly upward as concrete is poured, while climbing forms are raised in stages.
Best for: Large-scale commercial projects or structures with significant height.
Why choose it:
Efficient for tall or repetitive vertical pours
Saves time on large projects
Minimizes construction joints
Things to consider:
Requires skilled labor and precise planning. Not typically used in residential construction.
Conclusion
Whatever the method, the goal of concrete forming is the same: to shape and support the pour until it’s strong enough to stand on its own. The right formwork depends on your project’s size, budget, and desired finish. Whether you’re building a simple backyard slab or a complex structure, understanding your options helps ensure a smooth, durable result.
Need help choosing the right formwork for your project? Contact our team — we’re here to help from the ground up.
