Formwork Inspection

Forms must be set to correct dimensions, alignment, and elevation per plans. Tolerances per ACI 117.

1. Measure form dimensions — check width, depth, and height match plans

2. Check form alignment — string line or laser along the top, should be straight

3. Verify elevation — check with level and benchmark

4. Check that forms are plumb (for walls) or flat (for slabs)

5. Verify form spacing creates correct concrete thickness

6. Check corners — should be square (measure diagonals)

7. Verify openings (windows, doors, blockouts) are correctly positioned

- Forms out of alignment (crooked walls or foundation)

- Wrong dimensions (undersized concrete members)

- Forms not level (sloped surface where flat is needed)

- Corners not square

- Blockouts in wrong position

- Elevation wrong (step down too much or too little)

Forms must be adequately braced to resist concrete pressure during pour. Wall forms need snap ties or through-bolts plus diagonal bracing.

1. Check bracing — forms should not flex or move when pushed

2. Verify stakes on both sides of footing forms (double-staked at corners)

3. For wall forms: check snap ties or through-bolt spacing (typically 24" OC each way)

4. Verify diagonal bracing on wall forms (prevents forms from leaning)

5. Check for adequate kickers (angled braces at form base)

6. Verify walers (horizontal stiffeners) are properly spaced

7. Check that bracing is anchored to ground or structure (not just leaning)

- Inadequate bracing — forms blow out during pour (concrete wasted, dangerous)

- Missing stakes on form edges (forms shift under pressure)

- Snap ties too far apart (form bulges between ties)

- No diagonal bracing on wall forms (forms lean over)

- Bracing not anchored (slides under pressure)

- Form joints not tight (concrete leaks out)

Forms must be clean, tight-fitting, and treated with release agent. No debris in forms before pour.

1. Check form surfaces — clean, free of dirt, old concrete, and debris

2. Verify release agent (form oil) has been applied to all contact surfaces

3. Check for gaps between form panels — should be tight (no mortar leaks)

4. Remove all debris from inside forms — wire, wood scraps, nails, trash

5. Verify any embedded items (anchor bolts, sleeves, blockouts) are secured in position

6. Check form ties will create acceptable surface appearance

7. Verify form removal sequence is planned (when to strip, what order)

- Debris left in forms (weak spots in concrete)

- No release agent (forms stick to concrete, tear surface during removal)

- Gaps between panels (concrete leaks, creates fins)

- Embedded items shifted during pour

- Forms stripped too early (concrete not strong enough)

- Dirty forms creating rough surface finish