I will be casting arches in two sections where the plates will be a total of 8m long, part of the arch will include a staircase.
I am considering whether to cut out for the stairs in the plate and set form sides (one side will then basically just be the wall thickness of the outer wall.)
The alternative as I see it is to attach some foam boards to the plates that can be removed after casting, then you avoid setting form sides inside the arch.
Attached is a picture where I marked the opening.
What does the expertise say, how is it usually done?
I am considering whether to cut out for the stairs in the plate and set form sides (one side will then basically just be the wall thickness of the outer wall.)
The alternative as I see it is to attach some foam boards to the plates that can be removed after casting, then you avoid setting form sides inside the arch.
Attached is a picture where I marked the opening.
What does the expertise say, how is it usually done?
Construction veteran
· Norrland
· 342 posts
I would probably leave the sheet metal in place. It becomes easier to shape like you said. You could otherwise just make a frame of timber that you attach to the sheet metal with a couple of angles so there is no risk of the recess moving. It can also be done with celotex but it might be a bit more complicated to secure.
Yes, as you said, lumber on the sheet metal sounds smart and simple.
Construction veteran
· Norrland
· 342 posts
They work with both, so go with what you find easiest and cheapest 