The construction industry is constantly evolving, with materials playing a crucial role in efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. When it comes to concrete formwork, contractors are moving away from traditional plywood and exploring WPC shuttering sheets and recycled plastic sheets. But which one offers the best value for your projects? Let’s dive into the benefits, comparisons, and best practices to help you make an informed choice.
Understanding WPC and Recycled Plastic Sheets
What Are WPC Shuttering Sheets?
Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) shuttering boards are a blend of wood fibres and thermoplastics, offering an alternative to shuttering plywood. These shuttering boards are moisture-resistant, durable, and reusable but still contain wood, making them susceptible to swelling over time.
What Are Recycled Plastic Sheets?
Recycled plastic sheets, such as plastic plywood alternatives like WoWBoards, are made from 100% recycled plastic. These sheets eliminate the drawbacks of wood-based materials while offering higher durability and superior repetition cycles, making them the best shuttering plastic option.
Comparing WPC and Recycled Plastic Sheets for Formwork
| Feature | WPC Shuttering Sheets | Recycled Plastic Sheets (WoWBoards) |
| Durability | Moderate | High |
| Reusability | Up to 20-30 repetitions | 50+ repetitions |
| Water Resistance | Resistant but can absorb moisture over time | 100% waterproof |
| Flexibility | Limited | High, suitable for various applications |
| Strength | Moderate | High impact resistance |
| Sustainability | Partially sustainable | 100% recycled material |
| Cost Efficiency | Moderate initial cost but shorter lifespan | Higher ROI due to longevity |
Why Recycled Plastic Sheets Outperform WPC in Concrete Formwork
1. Higher Repetition Cycles = More Savings
Recycled plastic shuttering sheets like WoWBoards offer over 50 uses per sheet compared to WPC sheets, which typically last only 20-30 uses. This reduces material costs and frequent replacements.
2. Superior Water Resistance
Concrete formwork materials must withstand prolonged exposure to moisture. Unlike WPC, which contains wood fibres that absorb water over time, plastic ply boards remain completely unaffected, making them ideal shuttering panels for high-moisture environments.
3. Enhanced Strength and Flexibility
For slab shuttering materials and types of formwork in construction, plastic ply sheets offer higher impact resistance, ensuring fewer cracks or breakages during handling. Their flexibility allows them to be used in curved formwork applications as well.
4. Sustainable Construction Choice
While WPC sheets claim to be environmentally friendly, they still contain wood fibres. Recycled plastic boards help divert plastic waste from landfills, aligning with green building initiatives.
5. Lower Labour and Maintenance Costs
With easy cleaning, no swelling, and no need for chemical treatments, plastic concrete shuttering materials reduce on-site labour efforts and costs compared to WPC shuttering boards.
Best Practices for Using Recycled Plastic Sheets in Formwork
- Select the Right Thickness
- Use 12mm plastic ply sheets for columns and retaining walls.
- Opt for 16mm recycled plastic sheets for high-load slab applications.
- Ensure Proper Runner Spacing
- Work with the technical team to determine the correct formwork materials and runner spacing for different applications.
- Clean and Store Properly
- Unlike WPC, plastic ply board requires minimal maintenance—just a simple wash with water after use.
- Reduce Waste, Maximise ROI
- Since recycled plastic boards offer 50+ repetitions, invest in them to lower long-term costs instead of frequently replacing WPC boards or plywood.
Conclusion: The Smart Choice for Concrete Formwork
While WPC shuttering sheets offer an improvement over traditional plywood, recycled plastic sheets like WoWBoards provide unmatched durability, cost savings, and sustainability. If you’re looking for a plastic plywood alternative that outlasts WPC and plywood, it’s time to switch to recycled plastic shuttering sheets.
Make the switch today and experience the next evolution in formwork materials!