What does formwork refer to in construction?

In construction, formwork refers to the total system of support for freshly placed concrete. This includes all the materials and structures that shape and hold the concrete in place while it sets and gains strength. Formwork is crucial as it determines the final shape and surface finish of the concrete structure. It must be strong and stable to withstand the weight of the concrete and any external loads that may be applied during and after the pour.

Understanding this concept is important because properly designed and executed formwork ensures that the concrete is embedded in the correct shape and dimensions, preventing issues that could arise from improper support, such as settling or deformation. In distinction, other processes like mixing concrete, applying finishing touches, or curing are separate aspects of concrete construction and do not encompass the full scope of what formwork entails.