Cardboard forming tubes are a common yet often overlooked component in construction projects. Despite their simplicity, these cylindrical tubes play a critical role in creating structures that are safe, durable, and cost-effective. In this article, we will explore what cardboard forming tubes are, how they are made, and why they are such a valuable tool in construction, particularly in the UK.
What Are Cardboard Forming Tubes?
Cardboard forming tubes, often referred to as “concrete form tubes,” are large, hollow cylinders made from heavy-duty, spiral-wound cardboard. These tubes are typically used as temporary forms for pouring concrete, particularly in the construction of foundations, columns, and other vertical structures.
The tubes are designed to hold concrete in place while it sets, maintaining the required shape until the concrete has fully cured. Once the concrete is solid and ready for use, the cardboard tube is removed, leaving behind a clean, well-formed concrete structure. These tubes come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, allowing them to be tailored to the specific needs of each project.
How Are Cardboard Forming Tubes Made?
Cardboard forming tubes are manufactured by spirally winding heavy kraft paper around a core to create a strong and durable tube. The paper is treated to ensure that it can withstand the weight and moisture from the wet concrete while still being lightweight enough to handle easily on-site.
The tubes are designed to be smooth on the inside, making it easier to remove once the concrete has set. Some tubes are also coated with a special material to reduce the adhesion of concrete to the tube, allowing for easier removal after curing.
Manufacturers produce these tubes in various diameters, lengths, and thicknesses to meet the diverse needs of the construction industry. Custom-made tubes can also be ordered for specific applications, ensuring that they fit the exact dimensions required for a particular project.
Why Are Cardboard Forming Tubes Used in Construction?
1. Cost-Effectiveness
One of the main reasons that cardboard forming tubes are so widely used in construction is their cost-effectiveness. Compared to other forms like metal or plastic, cardboard tubes are far cheaper to produce and purchase. This makes them an ideal choice for projects with tight budgets or those that need to keep costs low without compromising on quality.
2. Ease of Use
Cardboard tubes are lightweight and easy to handle, making them simpler to transport and set up on-site. They can be easily cut or shaped to fit the needs of the project, which speeds up the construction process. Unlike more rigid materials, they don’t require special equipment to install, making them accessible to construction teams of all sizes.
3. Environmental Benefits
In recent years, sustainability has become a major concern in the construction industry. Cardboard forming tubes are made from recyclable materials, which makes them a more eco-friendly option compared to plastic or metal alternatives. After use, the tubes can be recycled, which reduces waste and supports the growing trend toward sustainable construction practices.
4. Quality and Finish
When used properly, cardboard forming tubes create clean and smooth concrete surfaces. The inner surface of the tube helps ensure that the concrete has an even finish and that it sets in a uniform shape. Additionally, because the cardboard is designed to easily come off, it leaves behind a professional-looking, smooth concrete column or foundation.
5. Time Efficiency
Cardboard forming tubes speed up the construction process by offering a quick and easy way to pour concrete into a mould. Because these tubes are pre-made and readily available, there is little preparation or set-up required. This saves valuable time on-site, helping construction teams complete projects more efficiently.
Common Uses of Cardboard Forming Tubes in Construction
1. Concrete Columns
Cardboard forming tubes are primarily used for creating concrete columns. These tubes can form the mould for columns of all sizes, from small supports to large structural pillars. The tube holds the concrete in place as it sets and cures, allowing construction teams to create strong, uniform columns that support the overall structure.
2. Footings and Foundations
Another common use for cardboard forming tubes is in the creation of footings and foundations for buildings. Footings are essential for supporting the weight of a structure and ensuring its stability. By using cardboard tubes, construction teams can quickly and easily form the holes required for pouring concrete foundations, ensuring that the base of the building is level and secure.
3. Piers and Posts
Cardboard forming tubes are also frequently used for creating piers and posts for fencing, decking, and other outdoor structures. Whether it’s for a garden shed or a more complex decking structure, these tubes provide a fast, cost-effective way to pour concrete supports that will hold up under pressure.
4. Bridge and Structural Supports
In larger-scale projects, such as the construction of bridges, roads, and high-rise buildings, cardboard forming tubes are used to create supporting pillars that must bear a great deal of weight and pressure. These tubes ensure that the concrete sets perfectly, giving the structure the strength it needs to withstand the forces it will face.
How to Use Cardboard Forming Tubes Effectively
To ensure that cardboard forming tubes are used effectively in construction, there are a few important steps to follow:
Select the Right Size Tube: It’s crucial to choose the correct diameter and length for the tube. Make sure it fits the specific dimensions of the structure you’re building. Oversized or undersized tubes can cause issues with the structural integrity of the finished concrete.
Prepare the Site: Before using the tubes, ensure the site is level and properly prepared. For larger projects, you may need to secure the tube to the ground to prevent it from shifting during the pouring process.
Add Reinforcement: Depending on the size and requirements of the project, you may need to add reinforcement, such as rebar, to the concrete within the tube. This will strengthen the final structure and ensure that it can handle the necessary loads.
Pour the Concrete: Once the tube is in place and prepared, you can pour the concrete inside. Ensure that the concrete is evenly distributed to avoid air pockets or weak spots in the final structure.
Allow Proper Curing Time: After pouring the concrete, allow it to cure properly. Curing time can vary depending on weather conditions, but typically, it takes several days for concrete to set completely.
Remove the Tube: After the concrete has fully cured, the cardboard forming tube can be carefully removed. If a coating was applied to the tube to reduce adhesion, this process will be even easier.
Cardboard forming tubes are an essential tool in construction, offering a simple, affordable, and environmentally friendly way to create strong concrete structures. Whether you’re working on small-scale projects like decking posts or large-scale infrastructure such as bridges, these tubes provide an efficient solution for moulding concrete columns, footings, and other essential components.
Their ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits make them a popular choice in the UK construction industry. By understanding how to use them effectively, you can ensure your project runs smoothly and achieves the best possible results. So, the next time you see a concrete pillar or post, remember that cardboard forming tubes (maybe from Curran) played a key role in its creation!