Slab formwork is one of the key stages of reinforced concrete works – its course determines not only the quality of the structure but also the completion time of the entire investment. It is therefore not surprising that more and more contractors, site managers and investors are looking for solutions that allow them to work faster, safer and more predictably.

In this article, we have gathered the most important information about the most commonly used formwork solutions – both those known for years and those that have revolutionized the daily work of many construction teams. If you are looking for a system suited to your construction site, need to compare different options, or simply want to make an informed decision – you are in the right place, welcome!

The most popular types of slab formwork – see what contractors choose

There are many slab formwork solutions available on the market, but three types of formwork systems enjoy the greatest interest among professional contractors. They differ in design, material, method of assembly and possible applications.

Traditional formwork – a classic solution with limitations

Traditional formwork is the most basic form of slab shuttering, based on a structure made of wooden beams, boards and props. Although for years it was the standard on smaller construction sites, today it is increasingly giving way to more modern systems. However, it is still used for simple projects – especially in single-family housing, where no intensive pace of work or multiple reuse of the material is assumed.

Its main disadvantage is time consumption. Each element must be cut and fitted manually, which requires not only precision but also experience on the part of the workers. The lack of modularity also means a longer assembly and disassembly time, which in larger projects translates into higher labor costs. Although wood as a base material may seem cheap and easily available, the overall cost of working with this type of formwork can be disproportionately high – especially since it is not suitable for multiple use and generates a lot of waste.

Traditional formwork is also less flexible in adapting to unusual slab shapes. Each change requires additional cutting and reinforcement, and the lack of standardization of elements may affect the stability and safety of the entire structure. For this reason, wooden formwork is now treated rather as a temporary or emergency solution than a full-fledged technological choice.

System formwork – a precise solution for demanding projects

Modern construction follows different rules than a dozen or so years ago – today not only durability and safety matter, but also the speed of implementation and repeatable quality of workmanship. That is why system formwork has dominated construction sites, becoming the standard wherever professionalism and process optimization are valued. This type of shuttering includes several structural solutions – from beam formwork, through frame, to modular systems. What they have in common is the use of ready-made, prefabricated elements that significantly facilitate and speed up work.

In the Szalbud offer, the greatest interest is in beam formwork, based on proven components such as H20 beams, telescopic props and formwork plywood from leading manufacturers such as Topec, Peri, Doka, Hunnebeck, Ulma, Pfeifer, Lana, Kaufmann or Scarom Rux. The modular structure allows for quick and intuitive assembly – without the need for cutting or fitting each element separately. Standardized beam lengths and a wide selection of props provide great freedom in designing the formwork layout, even for slabs of irregular shape or varying height.

The working time when using system formwork is significantly shorter compared to traditional solutions. Thanks to light components and the possibility of multiple use, assembly and disassembly are efficient and do not overburden the construction crew. This translates not only into higher efficiency but also into lower labor costs.

Although the investment in system formwork involves a higher initial outlay, especially when purchasing a set, it is worth remembering that these solutions are designed for intensive and multiple use. In addition, thanks to the rental option – also offered by Szalbud – it is possible to optimally adjust the costs to the specifics of a given project.

The versatility of system formwork makes it widely used both in residential construction and in large industrial or infrastructure projects.

Aluminum slab formwork Topec, Peri Skydeck, Doka Deck – lightness that speeds up every construction site

In the era of modern construction technologies, aluminum slab formwork is a response to the needs of crews who value speed of execution, minimal equipment and maximum work efficiency. It is one of the most innovative solutions currently available on the market – and at the same time a system that enjoys great interest in the Szalbud offer. Its uniqueness lies in the combination of a light structure with extremely simple assembly that does not require any tools.

Systems from Topec, Peri or Deck are made of aluminum frame panels integrated with plywood sheathing, special mounting heads and steel props. Thanks to this, slab formwork is carried out exceptionally efficiently – it is enough to hang the panel on the head, support it and… it’s ready. The whole process is so intuitive that it can be carried out by one person, without the need to involve additional workers or heavy equipment. The system is designed to minimize working time – under favorable conditions, a formwork speed of up to 0.2 hours per square meter can be achieved.

A great advantage of the system is its mobility. The small number of elements and their low weight significantly reduce the physical effort of the crew and improve work flow on the construction site. A wide range of available panel sizes – from 45 cm up to 180 cm – and the possibility of using telescopic and triangular panels make it possible to form even 95% of the slab surface without cutting. It is an ideal solution for large-area investments with a repetitive structural layout.

Although slab formwork requires a higher initial investment than classic beam systems, its efficiency in terms of labor savings, assembly speed and ease of use makes it a very cost-effective choice – especially in projects carried out in stages or where access to equipment is limited.

In the Szalbud offer, aluminum slab formwork is available in various configurations – ready for use, rental or adapted to a specific project. It is a proven solution for contractors who value modernity, flexibility and reliability.

Choosing a formwork system – a key element of every construction

Choosing the right formwork system is more than a technical decision – it is an element that affects logistics, budget, safety and the pace of the entire project. As practice shows, there is no universal solution – there are only those that work best in certain conditions. Traditional wooden formwork, although simple, now has rather a supplementary function. System formwork – including beam formwork – is indispensable in most professional projects. And lightweight systems open up new possibilities for those who value speed and work ergonomics.

If you are facing another construction project – large or small – remember that a good formwork system is not a cost, but an investment in quality, safety and efficient work organization. Also remember the possibility of renting formwork. At Szalbud, we not only provide proven solutions – we support them with knowledge, advice and flexible forms of cooperation, regardless of the scale of your project. Call or write – let’s choose together the best formwork system for your investment.