There are two factors that decide how well the concrete will look in the final result.. one is how the concrete is placed and compacted, and the other is the quality of the Formwork System.

For anything other than the smallest of concreting jobs e.g. walls over 1m in height, a drawing should be provided, showing what formwork is required. This need not be an intricate design drawing, a simple sketch is usually sufficient.

The below picture shows part of a concrete structure soon after the formwork has been struck. Not the poor finish (circled). This is an imprint of the painted plywood formwork. Some of the paint has run, and this has been transposed to the concrete. It is important to remember that the face of the concrete is effectively a negative of the formwork face. Always inspect the formwork prior to pouring.

Good formwork should fulfill the following criteria:

1. It is sufficiently stable in all weathers.

2. It can be easily erected and dismounted.

3. It conforms with appropriate safety regulations.

4. The face of the formwork is of sufficient quality for its use.

5. It can be handled safely and easily using the equipment available.

6. It provides suitable access for placing and compacting the concrete.

7. The joints between members are sound enough to prevent grout leakage.

8. It is strong enough to support the weight of fresh concrete during placing and compacting, and any other loads it may be required to take.