Cost
The cost of reinforced concrete construction can be reduced — sometimes dramatically — by following a few simple rules in the preliminary layout and design of a project.
Consistent Formwork Pays Off
The cost of formwork on a reinforced concrete construction project can be significant — sometimes up to 50 percent of the total cost!
As designers and engineers, it's important to understand how buildings are constructed. It may even help to get a formwork contractor involved at the early stages of the project to provide input to the design.
Uniformity and consistency are key. Select one framing scheme and stick with it throughout the project. Space the columns uniformly and make all the columns the same size. Keep all of the beams and joists the same depth.
By doing this, the formwork contractor only has a few sets of forms that can be used over and over again at the site. The formwork subcontractor will also be able to get into a certain "rhythm" of erecting and stripping the forms that will expedite the project and reduce costs.
Detailing for Lower Site Labor Costs
Site labor costs can be significant. Focus on the structural details make it constructible and thereby minimize the site labor costs. Help the reinforcing steel detailers and placers by making structures constructible. If good design practices are followed, it will take the steel workers less time to put the structure together, potentially saving a lot of money on the project.
Reinforcing Steel vs. Concrete
Evaluate the trade-off between the quantity of reinforcing steel — the number of bars — and the volume of concrete to be used.
Reinforcing bar costs more than concrete, so use as much steel as required, but no more.
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Structural Bulletin Series 1: Designer's Responsibility |
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For details on the best techniques for formwork, read the Formwork Digest, EDR #47. |
