The Different Types of Formwork Materials (And What Builders Actually Use)
Formwork is a critical part of any concrete construction project. It provides the temporary structure that holds and shapes concrete until it has cured and can support itself. While it may only be in place for a short period, the material used for formwork has a direct impact on build quality, efficiency, and cost.
Different formwork materials are suited to different types of projects. Choosing the right one depends on factors such as project size, required finish, budget, and how many times the formwork will be reused.
Formply (Plywood Formwork)
Formply is a specialised structural plywood designed specifically for formwork applications. It features a protective film coating that improves durability and allows for multiple uses.
Formply provides:
- A smoother concrete finish
- Greater consistency across pours
- Improved durability for reuse
Formply is widely used in:
- Slab formwork
- Wall systems
- Projects requiring a clean, consistent finish
Products like ATS Formply are designed for repeated use while maintaining surface quality, making them a practical choice for builders looking to improve efficiency across multiple pours.
Formwork LVL
Formwork LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) is engineered for strength and consistency, making it ideal for structural support in formwork systems.
Unlike standard timber, LVL offers:
- Higher strength and load capacity
- Consistent performance with minimal defects
- Reduced risk of warping or twisting
Formwork LVL is commonly used for:
- Bearers and joists in formwork systems
- Supporting slab formwork
- Applications where straightness and reliability are critical
ATS Formwork LVL is suited to builders who need dependable structural support across repeated use, particularly on larger or more demanding projects.
AFS Rediwall Systems
AFS Rediwall is a permanent formwork system made from lightweight fibre cement panels, designed to be filled with concrete to create a solid structural wall. Unlike traditional formwork, which is removed after the concrete cures, Rediwall remains in place as part of the finished structure.
It is commonly used in:
- Basement and retaining walls
- Lift shafts and stair cores
- Boundary and intertenancy walls
- Multi-residential and commercial construction
One of the main advantages of AFS Rediwall is that it combines formwork and finished wall systems into a single process. This can help reduce construction time on larger or more complex projects where speed and efficiency are important.
The system also provides consistent wall thickness and a clean internal surface, which can reduce the need for additional finishing work.
However, as a system-based solution, it requires detailed planning and coordination during installation. It is generally used on projects where its structural and time-saving benefits outweigh the higher upfront cost compared to traditional formwork methods.
Steel Decking
Steel decking is used in larger-scale construction where durability and repeatability are key. In many cases, steel decking is also used as part of the formwork system, particularly in suspended slabs and commercial construction.
Steel offers:
- High strength and load capacity
- Long-term reusability
- Consistent results across large pours
Steel decking is commonly used in:
- Suspended slab construction
- Commercial and multi-level builds
- Projects requiring speed and structural efficiency
ATS Steel Decking provides a strong and reliable solution for these applications, helping streamline installation while maintaining structural integrity.
Choosing the Right Formwork Material
Selecting the right formwork materials depends on the specific requirements of the project.
Important considerations include:
- The scale of the build
- How many times the formwork will be reused
- The desired finish of the concrete
- Budget constraints
- Availability of materials
For most residential and general construction projects, LVL and formply remain the most practical options due to their flexibility, availability, and cost-effectiveness.
See our easy-to-follow comparison table below:
Formwork Materials |
Common Uses |
Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Formply | Slabs, walls, clean finish applications | Smooth finish, reusable, consistent results |
| Formwork LVL | Bearers, joists, structural support | High strength, straight, reliable |
| AFS Rediwall | Basements, retaining walls, lift shafts, commercial structures | Permanent formwork, reduces construction time, consistent finish |
| Steel Decking | Suspended slabs, commercial builds | High load capacity, reusable |
Formwork is not just a temporary structure. The material you choose can influence the quality of the finish, the speed of construction, and the overall cost of the project.
Understanding the advantages of LVL, Formply, Steel and AFS Rediwall helps ensure the right decision is made from the start, reducing delays and improving outcomes on site.
Ensure you select the right formwork materials for your next job by getting in contact with the ATS team today. Feel free to email us at sales@atsbp.com or call us on 1800 577 551. A member of our team will happily offer guidance on our wide product selection.
Further Reading
For more information on formwork materials, consider the following sources:
For more information on our formwork materials and products, visit the following link:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of formwork materials?
The most common formwork materials that we sell are Formply, LVL, AFS Rediwall and Steel Decking.
What is formply used for in construction?
Formply is used to create a smooth surface for concrete in slabs, walls, and other structural elements, and is often reused across multiple pours.
Why is LVL used in formwork?
Formwork LVL is used for its strength, straightness, and reliability, making it ideal for supporting concrete loads in slab and structural formwork systems.