Concrete is one of the most versatile materials used in the construction industry today. Pouring concrete requires a lot of skill, and the use of forms is necessary to achieve precise measurements.

Wood has been the go-to material for making concrete forms in the past, but you may want to consider making the switch to aluminum forms for future concrete projects.

Aluminum forms offer a number of benefits that can increase your productivity and enhance the quality of your concrete work over time.

1. Reduce Tool Weight

Many different tools are required for any concrete project. These tools take up a lot of room and can become quite heavy over time. Wood forms can significantly add to the weight of the tools that you must transport to each job site.

Aluminum is an extremely lightweight metal. Making the switch to aluminum forms will help you reduce the overall weight of your tools so that you can downsize the trailer you use to haul these tools.

A smaller, lighter trailer will reduce fuel costs and make it easier to access commercial concrete projects in tight spaces.

2. Increase Form Longevity

The longer your concrete forms last, the more money you can save over time.

Wood forms can be effective, but they also tend to attract concrete as they age. New wood forms are treated with a low-grade oil that helps to prevent sticking. As the wood ages, the oil deteriorates and the forms become unusable.

Aluminum forms don't attract concrete as they age. The surfaces of aluminum forms are slick enough to facilitate the easy release of a cured concrete slab. You can reuse your aluminum forms over and over again without worrying about compromising the quality of your concrete work.

3. Increase Design Versatility

Some commercial clients have started to want more complex and decorative concrete elements than they have in the past. It can be challenging to meet your commercial customers' demands when you are relying on wood forms.

Aluminum forms offer the benefit of flexibility. You can bend an aluminum form to create rounded edges, soft curves, and interesting lines that will lend a decorative element to your concrete work.

Wood forms are stiff and cannot be used for anything other than angular square or rectangular concrete slabs. Investing in aluminum forms gives you access to a single form that can create any concrete shape your commercial clients might ask for in the future.

To learn more, contact a commercial forming company.