To make a square form of concrete, you must first construct the frames or forms that will be used to contain the concrete mixture. The size and shape of these forms will depend on the project you are working on.
You can create your forms using lumber or metal, depending on the strength and durability you need. You will also need to make sure the forms are level, as this will affect the shape of the finished product.
Once the forms are in place, you can begin mixing the concrete. Make sure to use the correct ratio of water to concrete mix to ensure the concrete will set properly. If you have a large project, you may want to use a concrete mixer to more easily combine the ingredients.
After the concrete is fully mixed and ready to pour, carefully fill the forms with the mixture.
Once the forms are filled with concrete, you must ensure the concrete is level before it cures. You can do this by screeding, tamping, or floating the surface. If any air bubbles are present, you can use a vibrator to help remove them.
Once the concrete is level, the curing process can begin. This involves keeping the concrete moist for the first few days, which helps the concrete reach optimal strength. You should leave the forms in place until the concrete is cured and the desired strength is achieved.
After that, you can remove the forms, clean them up, and you will have your perfect square form of concrete.
What is a sonotube for concrete?
A sonotube for concrete is a cardboard form which is used for pouring concrete footings, concrete piers and columns. They come in a variety of sizes and depths and have a large opening on one end and a smaller opening on the other.
With the help of a support system, they are embedded into the ground in order to form a tube shape. Once the concrete is poured in and allowed to set, the sonotube can then be removed and disposed of, leaving the concrete piers or columns in place.
Sonotubes are lightweight, economical and often more practical than other forms of concrete footings, making them a popular choice for many construction projects.
What sizes does sonotube come in?
Sonotube concrete forms come in a variety of sizes to accommodate projects of all sizes. The largest diameter for a typical Sonotube form is 24 inches, and the longest form length available is 20 feet.
Smaller sizes are available, with diameters ranging from 6 inches all the way down to 1.5 inches. Lengths for the smaller diameters run from 6 feet all the way down to 1.5 feet. Other specialty sizes are also available to fulfill specific project needs.
Sonotube forms are also available in specialty grades, such as fire retardant and heavy duty. With so many sizes, grades and lengths to choose from, Sonotube forms can be used to suit any number of construction applications.
Can you leave sonotube in the ground?
Yes, you can leave sonotube in the ground. Sonotube concrete forms are designed with an integral lip that helps ensure the tubes hold their round shape, even against soil pressure. As well as providing uniform strength and consistent footing, waterproofing can stop water seeping up and contaminating the concrete.
Sonotube can also be used in areas with a high water table, and the forms can even be installed below the frost line. Additionally, sonotubes are recyclable, making them a great option for projects with environmental-conscious objectives.
When leaving the sonotube in the ground, make sure to use enough concrete (of the appropriate mix) to fill the form and place within 1/2 inch of the top of the form. The concrete should be allowed to cure for a minimum of 28 days before loading, and should remain in the forms for a minimum of one week.
It’s also important to note that sonotube forms should not be left in the ground indefinitely, as this may cause the form to swell and may expand over time.
How much does Sono tube cost?
The cost of Sonotube typically depends on the size that you need. Sonotube is typically sold in 6” to 24” diameters and in lengths up to 12 feet. Generally, a 12-foot long, 12-inch diameter Sonotube will cost around $50.
00, but prices can vary depending on your specific location and the size you need. It is always a good idea to shop around to ensure that you are getting the best deal. Additionally, many home improvement stores also offer discounts or coupons on bulk orders, so make sure to inquire if you need a larger quantity.
How many 80lb bags of concrete does it take to fill a 12 sonotube?
It depends on the size of the sonotube and how thick the concrete layer needs to be. Generally, it takes one 80lb bag of concrete per cubic foot of space, so multiply the volume of the sonotube by 64 pounds per cubic foot to figure out how many 80lb bags it will take to fill the sonotube.
The sonotube’s volume can be calculated using the formula: V = πr2h, where “V” is the volume, “r” is the radius of the base, and “h” is the height. For example, if the sonotube has a radius of 6 inches and a height of 10 inches, then its volume is π (3²) (10) = 282.
74 cubic inches. To get the volume in cubic feet, divide the answer by 1728 (12x12x12). In this case, the sonotube would have a volume of 0.16 cubic feet, so it would take one 80lb bag of concrete to fill it.
What size wood should I use for concrete forms?
When constructing concrete forms, the size of wood used can depend on several factors, including the size and weight of the concrete being poured, the climate of the location, and the type of form being used.
Generally, plywood or lumber construction-grade studs are most commonly used for standard concrete forms. When using plywood, it is important to consider that thicker wood creates a more durable form and can handle heavier loads, while thinner wood may require additional support and is more susceptible to warping and splitting.
When using lumber, it is crucial to consider the type of wood used, as certain varieties (i. e. pine) are not suitable for use in concrete forms. OSB can also be used, but is generally not recommended, due to the potential for swelling and delamination.
Both plywood and lumber forms should be secured using suitable form nails, screws, staplers, and braces. When calculating the size of the wood needed for construction, it is important to consider the depth, width, and length of the form to ensure that all sides are adequately supported and that the form won’t break or collapse under the weight of the wet concrete.
How thick should concrete forms be?
The thickness of concrete forms depends on the type of project and the size of the forms being used. Generally, residential concrete forms should be at least 4 inches thick for small projects, such as a sidewalk or patio, and 8 inches thick for larger projects such as a driveway.
For commercial projects, the thickness of the forms should be determined based on the proposed load and the strength of the concrete. For foundations that will support heavier loads, such as industrial buildings, forms of 12-inch thickness are usually required.
Additionally, when stiffening supports are required, the forms should be thicker than the minimum requirements to provide additional rigidity. The strength of the concrete also determines how thick concrete forms should be, as higher strengths require thicker forms to prevent cracking.
Should you use treated lumber for concrete forms?
Yes, using treated lumber for concrete forms is a good idea. Treated lumber is made to withstand strong elements and resists rot, decay, and other forms of damage, making it ideal for forming concrete.
Treated lumber is not just used for concrete forms; it is also one of the best materials for decks, fences, and other outdoor structures. It offers a long lasting alternative to pressure-treated wood, and is easy to work with and less prone to splitting or cracking.
It also provides a smooth surface for concrete, which helps ensure proper levels of strength and durability. Additionally, treated lumber does not absorb moisture, making it virtually impervious to water damage – a significant advantage for use in places exposed to the elements or with high moisture levels.
All in all, treated lumber is a great material for use in concrete forms, and its long-lasting nature makes it even more cost-effective in the long run.
Does concrete stick to wood forms?
Yes, concrete can stick to wood forms. However, it is important to properly prepare wood forms before using them for concrete or any other material. First, the wood needs to be stripped of any varnish, dirt or oil that may be present, as this can cause the concrete to not adhere properly.
The wood should also be lightly coated with a concrete release agent such as mineral oil, vegetable oil or talcum powder. This helps to create a barrier between the concrete and the wood form, making sure the concrete does not stick and making it easier to remove the wood form once the concrete has dried and set.
Lastly, the wood form should be dampened with a light spray from a garden hose or water from a spray bottle. This will help the concrete stick to the wood and provide a better bond.
What do you use to form curved concrete?
To form curved concrete, a variety of tools and techniques can be used. One of the most popular tools is curved form liners which are used to create an impression of curved surfaces in concrete. Curved form liners are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and can easily be installed.
Another popular tool is curved steel forms which provide the ability to bend concrete into curved shapes. When using this method, steel forms are shaped to the desired curve and filled with concrete.
Finally, another popular tool is a slip forming technique. This technique involves forming and compacting concrete layers in a rotating spiral which gradually builds up the curved shape of the concrete.
This method is often used to form curvy, winding shapes. With the use of these various tools and techniques, concrete can be easily formed into curved shapes and designs.
Which wood is for shuttering?
Shuttering is a temporary formwork used to support concrete walls, columns, and other structures while they harden. Common types of wood used for shuttering include spruce, Douglas fir, pine, hemlock, oak, and larch.
In terms of strength and durability, spruce is especially commonly used in shuttering due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and its low cost. Pine is also a popular choice, as it is typically less expensive and more readily available than the other woods.
Douglas fir combines reasonable strength with reasonable cost, which makes it a popular choice in the construction industry. Other options such as oak, larch, and hemlock are used for specific applications where higher strength levels and better weather resistance are required.
Generally, it is recommended to use treated wood to make shuttering more durable, as this helps it resist weathering and makes it last longer.
Can you use vegetable oil as a concrete release?
Yes, it is possible to use vegetable oil as a concrete release. It is an economical and safe way to stop concrete from bonding to molds, trowels, and concrete saws. The oil can be applied in liquid or spray form and will create a barrier to help keep the concrete from sticking to surfaces.
It is important to note that thin layers of the oil should be used, as excess oil can make the surface of the concrete rough and even leave unsightly residue. Additionally, vegetable oil can be used multiple times until it starts to wear off.
When it does, additional coats of oil should be applied to keep the surfaces slippery.