Garden contractor can do simple concrete work himself

Universal lightweight formwork makes it possible

Especially if a swimming pool (and possibly an associated pool house) is on your customer's wish list, concrete quickly comes to mind. So that you do not have to use an additional party for this, PERI offers a simple solution with which you can get started right away.

Text Elise Noyez    |    Image PERI Benelux

Concrete is an extremely strong and versatile material that has also proven its worth in the garden. Both for the construction of retaining walls or path and garden borders, as well as for the foundations of garden houses and the construction of swimming pools and ponds, it is considered a quasi-indispensable building material. However, the use of concrete often also raises practical issues. For example, the transport of precast elements often requires a crane and traditional formwork methods require very specific expertise. Issues that can sometimes hinder the smooth progress of the works. But what if you could do it yourself, without the need for additional training or tools?

Light and simple

Specialist in scaffolding and formwork systems PERI is launching the lightweight DUO formwork, a universal and user-friendly solution that can be used in the most difficult-to-reach places, and without any additional expert knowledge.

The panels of this system are made of Polytech, a rock-solid recyclable plastic that retains the lightweight properties of polymer. Consequently, the largest DUO formwork panel (135 x 90 cm) weighs barely 25 kg and can therefore be easily lifted, moved and assembled by a single person.

Not only is the material innovative; so is the entire concept. After all, the system consists of a minimum of standard components, which can be assembled in a variety of configurations using the included DUO connectors. No additional tools or knowledge are required for that assembly. The click-and-twist connection of the red DUO connectors is sufficient to fully anchor the panels. This not only saves manpower, but also labor time. Moreover, PERI provides the necessary support, via the myPERI customer portal, the DUO planner app and, if necessary, help 'on site'.

Manufactured from Polytech, the panels are perfectly resistant to outdoor conditions.

Universal

Specifically, DUO's system components can be used for the construction of walls with a maximum concrete pressure of 50 kN/m2, for foundations, beams, floors (up to 30 cm thick) and for columns with sections from 15 to 55 cm and maximum 80 kN/m2 concrete pressure. In this way, just about any concrete work in the garden is possible, including swimming pools and ponds. Those who want to get creative can even create benches, tables or other garden accessories with DUO.

The concrete work for a swimming pool, after stripping.

Sustainable

DUO's versatility makes the formwork system a sustainable solution, but the material also contributes to this. If a traditional shuttering panel allows 30 to 50 shutterings, Polytech can be reused up to 80 times. Because the concrete hardly adheres to the shuttering panel, the panels are easy to clean; however, if any small damage does occur somewhere, it can be easily repaired on site.

Not unimportant for work that almost by definition takes place outdoors, in addition, the panels do not absorb water, nor do they rust or deform under the influence of moisture. A useful tool for the garden contractor who likes to see his concrete projects poured smoothly and without accidents!