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How to build formwork

Person laying down a curved timber edge as a part of formwork for a concrete path

Overview

Formwork is an important part of many concreting jobs. It is used to hold concrete in a certain shape while the mixture hardens. We'll show you how to create a straight edge and a curved edge with formwork. 

Tools and materials

Tools

Materials

Steps

1Make a straight edge with formwork

Use a shovel to level out the area you are planning to concrete. Then put a piece of formwork in the position you want for the edge of your concrete slab. Set the height of timber so that the top is level with the height you want for your finished slab. Then secure it in place by hammering wooden pegs on the outside edge of the timber

2Make a curved edge with formwork

To make a broad curved edge with formwork, simply bend the timber into shape and peg it in place. If you want to make a tighter curve, do the job in stages. Start by pegging a broad curve in place. Then pour water over the timber to make it flexible. Once the water has seeped in, pull the formwork tighter and peg it down. Your final peg should go in at the centre of the curve. Once again, make sure the top of the edging is level with height you want for your finished slab.

More D.I.Y. Advice

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.