Wooden formwork remains one of the most commonly used tools in construction, especially when working with concrete. It is a temporary structure that allows concrete to retain its shape until it has fully hardened. Although there are also metal, plastic or composite formwork systems, wood is still widely used due to its availability, flexibility and relatively low cost.
In the following, we’ll take a closer look at what exactly wooden formwork is, which types of wood are used, how it is installed and why choosing the right formwork is essential for the success of a construction project. The article is intended for both DIY enthusiasts and experienced professionals looking to deepen their knowledge of formwork systems.
What Is Wooden Formwork?
Wooden formwork is a temporary structure that serves as a mold for concrete. It is installed before the concrete is poured to give it the desired shape and provide support during the drying process. It consists of boards, beams or panels joined together into a solid structure. In addition to shaping the concrete, it also ensures straightness, levelness and accurate dimensions of the final concrete product.
Wooden formwork is most commonly used for smaller construction works, such as:
- foundation strips and slabs,
- staircases,
- retaining walls,
- yard paths,
- concrete fences.
Wooden formwork can be part of a permanent solution or a single-use mold that is removed after the concrete has set.
Types of Wood and Materials for Formwork
Different types of wood can be used for formwork, but it’s important that they are sufficiently strong, stable and straight. Commonly used materials include:
- Top boards made of softwood (e.g., spruce or fir), as they are lightweight and easy to work with.
- Plywood, which provides a smooth concrete surface and easy assembly.
- Treated wooden elements, which are impregnated or oiled for greater durability and reusability.
Treating wood with formwork oil or special coatings prevents the concrete from sticking, making removal easier and extending the material’s lifespan.
How Is Wooden Formwork Installed?
Installing wooden formwork requires precision and the correct sequence of steps to ensure the final product’s strength and proper shape.
A typical process includes:
- Marking the area – workers first measure and mark the exact shape of the structure.
- Placing the boards – wooden boards or panels are fastened in place with nails, screws or clamps.
- Reinforcing with supports – the formwork is further strengthened with braces or wedges to withstand the weight of the concrete.
- Adding reinforcing steel (if needed) – steel bars increase load-bearing capacity and durability.
- Applying oil to the interior surfaces – this prevents the concrete from sticking to the wood.
After the concrete is poured and has dried sufficiently, the formwork is carefully removed. The wood can be reused if it has not been damaged.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wooden Formwork
Wooden formwork has its advantages, but also some limitations.
🔹 Advantages
- Affordable price and wide availability of materials.
- Easy to work with using hand or power tools.
- Flexible in shaping various sizes and forms.
- Reusable with proper treatment.
🔸 Disadvantages
- Susceptible to moisture and weather conditions.
- Wears out faster with repeated use if not adequately protected.
- Requires precise execution to prevent concrete leakage.
That’s why proper planning and execution of wooden formwork is essential – both for DIY projects and professional construction work.
How to Extend the Lifespan of Wooden Formwork?
If we want to reuse wooden formwork multiple times, proper maintenance is key. This not only saves money but also reduces waste material.
Here are some tips:
- Before use, coat the wood with formwork oil.
- After removing the concrete, clean and dry the boards.
- Replace damaged parts and store the rest in a dry space.
- Do not use boards that are already cracked, warped or rotten.
This extends the usability of the formwork and contributes to more sustainable construction practices.
Wooden Formwork: The Foundation of a Concrete Structure
Although alternative formwork systems such as metal or plastic modules are increasingly available, wooden formwork still plays an important role—especially in smaller projects and where on-site adjustments are needed. Due to its flexibility, simplicity and availability, it remains an indispensable part of almost every concrete structure.
By choosing the right material, assembling it properly and maintaining it carefully, we can achieve excellent results, reduce costs and maintain high execution quality. If you’re undertaking concrete work, be aware of how important a well-designed and properly installed wooden formwork is, as it determines the shape and strength of the concrete even before it fully hardens into its final structure.
