Steel Form Decking vs. Wood Decking: What’s the Difference

As a concrete pouring platform, should we choose steel form decking or wooden form? Wooden form is the traditional way of concrete platform, and steel form decking has quickly occupied the market of wooden form due to its unique advantages. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one for your project depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here, we’ll take a look at the differences between wood and steel form decking.

Cost

Wood formwork usually costs less than steel formwork. Depending on the type of wood and the size of the deck, steel formwork panels typically cost 1.3 times more than wood formwork. However, the above is only the cost of materials, and the steel formwork does not need to be dismantled, but the wooden formwork does need to be dismantled, which will result in certain construction costs. In this way, the cost of the two is about the same.

Installation

When it comes to installation, steel form decking is the easier option. Steel form decking can be installed quickly and easily, and you don’t need any special tools. Wood form decking, on the other hand, can be more difficult to install and requires a certain level of skill.

Safety

Steel formwork has some advantages over wood floors when it comes to safety. Steel formwork is non-combustible, which means it won’t catch fire like wood floors. In addition, the steel formwork has greater strength and can provide greater loads, and construction personnel can safely operate on the platform.

Environmentally Friendly

Wood decking is the more environmentally friendly option, as it’s a natural, renewable resource. Steel form decking, on the other hand, is made from recycled steel, which means it’s not as environmentally friendly as wood.

Conclusion

When choosing a material for your deck, it is important to consider all factors. Steel form decking can be far better than wooden formwork when choosing decks for steel structures.