CONCRETE FORM LINERS 101

What are Form liners?

To put it simply, a form liner or form liner is a rubber (urethane) or plastic mold with a pattern that mimics textures like rock, wood, brick, and any other desired pattern; the patterns are virtually limitless.

Form liners line the inside of your form system. You pour concrete like you normally would and let it set. Finally you strip the concrete forms and liner from the concrete revealing the finished pattern on the surface.

Where Are Form liners Used?

Concrete form liners are used by contractors and can be applied to a variety of structures made of concrete. They are used to enhance concrete finishes on buildings, roads and highways (retaining walls, abutments, slab edges, copings), parks, signs and other decorative concrete structures.

Materials

Plastic Or Urethane Form liner For My Project?

Our concrete form liners are available in two materials: Plastic and Urethane. Each has its own purpose. Plastic and Urethane. Each has its own purpose.

Plastic

Low reuses (1-10 Reuses)
Low resolution pattern detail
Low SqFt cost
Backing may be required
1 person can handle a sheet of plastic
No plywood embedment

Urethane

Low to high reuse (1- 100 reuses)
High resolution pattern detail
Middle to high SqFt cost
No backing required
2 people can handle the lightweight urethane. Special equipment is needed for the solid urethane liners.
Plywood embedded in liner

PLASTIC PATTERNS

Plastic is an affordable alternative to achieve an architectural concrete finish. It is mainly used when a small number of pours are needed or when you are pouring large areas at one time.

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BRICK

BRICK

FRACTURED FIN

FRACTURED FIN

FlUTED RIBS

FLUTED RIBS

STONE

STONE

TEXTURE

TEXTURE

WOOD

WOOD

URETHANE PATTERNS

Urethane is used for large projects or when high detail and high relief of the concrete pattern are needed. Urethane is best for large projects that can take advantage of the multiple reuses making these liners the most cost effective option. Learn More

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BRICK

BRICK

FRACTURED FIN

FRACTURED FIN

FlUTED RIBS

FLUTED RIBS

STONE

STONE

TEXTURE

TEXTURE

WOOD

WOOD

APPLICATIONS

Concrete Form liners are used by contractors in three different ways.

Cast-In-Place

Cast-In-Place

Cast-in-place is the most common method to erect walls, columns, beams and roofs. This method is the most versatile and gives you the most flexibility.

PRECASTER

Precast

Precast is a method where concrete is poured into standard sized form systems and cured in a controlled environment that offers better control over material and quality. It also tends to accelerate the project because multiple panels can be poured at one time, stripping can be done within 24 hours, and forms with liners are ready to be poured again. Additionally, these panels arrive on site ready to be installed.

Tilt-Up

Tilt-Up

Tilt-up construction is cost-effective and fast. It is one of the most common methods used in commercial buildings. In tilt-up, concrete is poured horizontally onto the concrete form liners that have been attached to the concrete slab. Once the concrete has cured, a crane is used to tilt the panels up into a vertical position. The panel is moved into place and secured. This methodology is more efficient than wood-frame construction or masonry construction.

Whether you use plastic or urethane form liner you need a concrete form system to attach the liner. You can use standard wood, steel, aluminum, concrete slab forms, or most any concrete form system in conjunction with our form liner.

EXAMPLES OF USES

Architects, Engineers, and Designers use Custom Rock form liners for commercial and residential buildings, schools, Industrial buildings, stadiums, theme parks, infrastructure work, public art, and signs. DOTs use Custom Rock form liners for infrastructure work (subways, roads/highways), public art, and signs.

YOU HAVE QUESTIONS.
WE HAVE ANSWERS.

01
What are formliners and how are they used in construction?

Formliners are flexible or rigid molds that are placed inside formwork or molds to create textured or patterned surfaces on concrete. They are typically made of materials such as rubber, plastic, or foam. Formliners are used to add visual interest and texture to concrete walls, columns, beams, and other architectural elements. They offer a cost-effective and efficient way to achieve decorative finishes in both new construction and renovation projects.

02
What types of textures and patterns are available with formliners?

At Custom Rock, we offer a wide range of textures and patterns for formliners to suit various design preferences. Our selection includes options like stone, brick, wood, tile, and custom designs. Whether you're looking to replicate the appearance of natural materials or create a unique concrete pattern, we can provide formliners that meet your specific project requirements.

03
Can formliners be used for both interior and exterior applications?

Yes, formliners can be used for both interior and exterior applications. They are commonly used in a variety of settings, including commercial buildings, residential projects, public spaces, and more. Formliners allow you to add visual interest and texture to both interior and exterior concrete surfaces, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your project.

04
How are formliners installed?

Formliners are installed by placing them inside the formwork or molds before pouring concrete. The formliners are securely attached to the formwork to ensure they stay in place during the concrete pouring process. After the concrete sets, the formwork is removed, revealing the textured or patterned surface created by the formliners.

05
Can concrete form liners be reused?

In many cases, formliners can be reused multiple times, depending on their material and condition. Flexible formliners, such as those made of urethane, are generally more durable and can withstand multiple uses.
Rigid formliners, such as those made from plastic or foam, have a shorter lifespan. Certain plastic liners like ABS material, can be reused for several pours if properly maintained and handled.

06
Are there any limitations or considerations when using formliners?

When using formliners, it's important to consider factors such as the complexity of the design, the desired texture or pattern, and the type of concrete being used. Some intricate or detailed patterns may require additional care during the installation process. It's recommended to consult with our experts or a professional contractor to ensure proper installation techniques and to address any specific considerations for your project.

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