In the construction world, shuttering plywood has long been the default choice for formwork. From columns and slabs to retaining walls and beams, plywood shuttering is used to mould concrete into shape. But on real Indian sites—where weather is harsh, timelines are tight, and budgets are stretched—plywood for shuttering is starting to show its cracks. Literally and metaphorically.
At WoWMaterials, we’ve walked the ground—spoken to labourers, contractors, and project managers. We’ve seen first-hand the problems shuttering ply creates and how it slows down progress on sites that cannot afford delays. This blog outlines the seven biggest issues with shuttering plywood sheets and why it’s time to rethink your material choices.
1. Low Reusability = Higher Cost Over Time
A new plywood shuttering board looks fine—for the first few uses. But by the fifth or sixth time, it begins to warp, chip, and soak in moisture. Most contractors report a maximum of 10 repetitions, and often even less in high-traffic or outdoor areas.
Compare that to plastic shuttering ply like WoWBoards, which easily deliver 50+ repetitions. Yes, the upfront cost may be higher, but the long-term ROI? Unmatched.
2. Moisture Absorption and Warping
Plywood and water don’t go well together. Monsoons, curing processes, and even overnight humidity cause shuttering ply to swell and warp. This leads to:
- Uneven concrete finish
- Extra time spent on surface correction
- Costly plastering and rework
Plastic shuttering sheets, made from recycled polymers, are 100% waterproof. They don’t swell, warp, or rot. It’s formwork you can trust—rain or shine.
3. Inconsistent Concrete Finish
One of the most common complaints from contractors is the patchy finish left behind by shuttering ply boards. With each use, the surface roughens, leaving visible lines and impressions on the concrete.
WoWBoards, on the other hand, offer a consistently smooth finish, reducing the need for excessive plastering. In fact, some contractors have reported up to 30% savings in plastering costs by switching to WoWBoards.
4. Labour-Intensive Handling
Plywood shuttering often demands significant effort to cut, bend, and handle—especially after multiple uses. Once it begins to deteriorate, it becomes harder to work with, increasing strain on site workers and reducing efficiency.
Plastic shuttering plyboards like WoWBoards can be cut and drilled just like wood but don’t splinter or degrade over time. That means less effort, less injury risk, and faster site work.
5. No Standardisation Across Batches
Ask any site supervisor and they’ll tell you—plywood quality varies wildly, even within the same batch. There’s no real standardisation, and suppliers often mix grades, leading to unpredictability in performance.
WoWBoards, being manufactured in controlled conditions, offer consistent quality and thickness across all sheets—removing one more uncertainty from your site.
6. Difficult De-shuttering
With plywood, de-shuttering is a delicate game. If the sheet has absorbed moisture or warped, removing it cleanly becomes tough. Labourers often damage the sheet or even the structure during removal, leading to waste and frustration.
Plastic shuttering sheets, however, de-shutter with ease. Their non-stick nature means concrete doesn’t bind to the surface—resulting in faster turnaround and reduced site downtime.
7. Environmental Impact
Let’s talk about sustainability. Shuttering plywood comes from trees. Its short lifespan means constant replacement—driving up the demand for virgin wood. At the end of its use, most shuttering ply ends up in landfills or burnt, releasing toxic fumes.
WoWBoards are made from recycled plastic waste that would otherwise pollute landfills or oceans. By switching, you’re reducing deforestation and giving waste a second life in the form of a high-performance product.
So, Why Are We Still Using Shuttering Ply?
It’s not about habit anymore—it’s about outcomes. Plywood shuttering has served its time. But with rising material costs, labour shortages, and increased awareness of environmental impact, the construction industry needs smarter solutions.
WoWBoards are not just an alternative—they’re an upgrade.
- More repetitions
- Better finish
- Faster work
- Lower total cost
- 100% recyclable and waterproof
Whether you’re a contractor chasing deadlines or a builder optimising budgets, switching to plastic shuttering sheets like WoWBoards is a choice that pays for itself.
Final Thoughts
Construction is evolving—and your shuttering material should too. Don’t wait for plywood to fail you on site. Make the switch now and experience the WoW difference.Ready to see WoWBoards in action?
Visit www.wowmaterials.com to request a demo or get in touch with our technical team.