Imagine a construction site where materials endure relentless cycles of heavy concrete pours, harsh weather, and time delays, all without wearing out. For years, plywood has been the go-to for concrete shuttering, but its durability falls short when projects require long-lasting, weather-resistant solutions. Enter recycled plastic boards like WoWBoards, designed to tackle these exact challenges with exceptional durability and sustainability.
Unlike plywood, which quickly deteriorates with repeated use, plastic shuttering sheets bring strength, efficiency, and a significant edge in reducing environmental impact. Builders are now looking at plastic as a strategic choice that meets the demands of modern construction head-on. This blog dives into why recycled plastic boards are an essential upgrade for concrete shuttering, transforming industry practices with greater reliability, cost-effectiveness, and an eye toward a sustainable future.
1. The Need for Efficient Concrete Shuttering Solutions
Concrete shuttering is essential for shaping and supporting concrete structures as they are set. However, the materials traditionally used—like plywood—often wear down quickly under the intense demands of large projects. Repeated exposure to moisture, varying temperatures, and on-site pressures cause plywood to degrade, which leads to costly replacements and delays. Unlike plywood, recycled plastic sheets are built to withstand these conditions, maintaining structural integrity across repeated cycles. For builders aiming for both reliability and sustainability, plastic shuttering boards are an answer to these recurring challenges.
2. Key Advantages of Recycled Plastic Sheets for Concrete Shuttering
Durability and Reusability
Recycled plastic concrete shuttering sheets can be reused extensively, even in harsh environments, without the deterioration seen in plywood. The solid construction of WoWBoards resists chipping, cracking, and warping, which means contractors can expect reliable performance over multiple uses. This resilience provides consistency in every pour and minimises risks associated with faulty shuttering.
Enhanced Load-Bearing Capacity
Plastic shuttering boards like WoWBoards are specifically engineered to handle the heavy loads common in large concrete pours. This strength and stability translate to fewer replacements, enhanced safety, and a reduction in material costs. As a result, contractors benefit from materials that keep projects running smoothly, regardless of load requirements.
Resistance to Water and Chemicals
Unlike plywood, which deteriorates with exposure to moisture, recycled plastic sheets are inherently resistant to water, humidity, and chemicals. This is especially valuable in regions with high rainfall or in projects involving concrete additives that can corrode other materials. Plastic shuttering boards retain their shape and structural integrity, even in wet conditions, providing builders with peace of mind during all stages of a project.
3. Cost Efficiency and Long-Term Savings
One of the biggest advantages of plastic shuttering sheets is cost efficiency. Traditional plywood needs frequent replacement due to wear, which increases material expenses. WoWBoards, on the other hand, offer a high level of reusability, allowing contractors to use them repeatedly without noticeable degradation. Additionally, plastic boards reduce on-site labour costs by enabling quicker de-shuttering, allowing teams to work more efficiently and avoid unnecessary delays. By incorporating these boards into their operations, contractors can enjoy predictable material costs, reduce the frequency of material orders, and ultimately increase project profitability.
4. Sustainability Benefits of Using Recycled Plastic Sheets in Construction
Reduced Environmental Impact
With the construction industry increasingly focused on sustainability, switching to recycled plastic boards represents a positive step. Traditional shuttering materials, like plywood, rely on wood, contributing to deforestation. In contrast, WoWBoards are manufactured from repurposed plastics, reducing dependency on virgin materials and helping conserve forests. Each board directly prevents plastic waste from ending up in landfills, making them a more eco-friendly option for the construction industry.
Support for a Circular Economy
WoWMaterials is committed to the circular economy model by transforming plastic waste into valuable, reusable construction materials. Recycled concrete shuttering sheets contribute to this cycle by giving discarded plastics a second life and diverting waste from landfills. This innovative approach aligns with the construction industry’s broader move toward sustainable practices, where materials are reused and repurposed whenever possible.
5. Best Practices for Using Recycled Plastic Sheets in Concrete Shuttering
Correct Handling and Storage
To extend the lifespan of plastic shuttering sheets, it’s essential to handle and store them properly. Unlike plywood, plastic sheets do not warp, but they can be stored flat to maintain their form and maximise durability. Educating on-site teams about proper handling practices can ensure that each board provides peak performance across multiple projects.
Ensuring Proper Runner Spacing
One of the unique benefits of WoWBoards is their flexibility in different applications. Based on load requirements, the spacing for runners may vary, and consulting with technical experts can help ensure optimal performance. WoWMaterials’ technical team is available to provide guidance on specific load-bearing needs and runner spacing, ensuring that every installation is tailored for efficiency and safety.
6. Comparison with Traditional Plywood and Metal Shuttering
Compared to plywood and metal, recycled pvc shuttering boards offer distinct advantages in durability, reusability, and environmental impact. Plywood is susceptible to moisture and temperature changes, causing delamination and requiring frequent replacements. Metal, while durable, is costly and lacks the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of recycled plastic boards. WoWBoards, made from recycled plastic, offer the best of both worlds: they’re as durable as metal but come at a fraction of the cost and without the risks associated with plywood degradation.
Conclusion
Recycled plastic boards like WoWBoards are enhancing efficiency in concrete shuttering work, providing contractors with an affordable, durable, and eco-friendly solution. By switching to these innovative boards, builders can achieve more sustainable project outcomes, cut down on material costs, and avoid frequent replacements.
In today’s construction landscape, choosing WoWBoards isn’t just a shift toward efficiency—it’s a commitment to building responsibly for the future.