Cutting a sonotube square is a relatively easy task that requires basic tools and some knowledge of how to use them. First, you will need a sharp saw blade or a wallboard saw with deep teeth. You should also get some safety goggles to protect yourself.
To begin, measure the sonotube and mark out the square that you wish to cut. Then, using your saw blade, begin cutting slowly and evenly along the marked lines. Make sure to hold the saw firmly and cut slowly to ensure the best result.
Once the circumference and sides of the sonotube are cut, you will need to finish cutting the corners. To do this, use a notch and chisel technique. Insert the chisel into the corner junction and hit it with a hammer to cut the corner.
Check your progress as you go along to make sure the corners are even, and use a file to smooth any rough areas.
When you are finished, you will have a square piece of sonotube that you can use for whatever purpose you desire. Keep in mind that areas you were chiseling will be more jagged and might require some additional filing.
Additionally, you can always add adhesive sealant around the cut edges to lock them together and make the whole piece more secure.
What sizes do Sonotubes come in?
Sonotubes come in a variety of sizes. The most common size for commercial purposes is 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, 48, and 60 inches in diameter and a working range of 4′ to 14′ in length. Different diameters have different wall thicknesses, with the thicker wall being used for larger sizes.
Larger diameters are also possible, up to 120″ diameter. Other available sizes are also available, typically in lengths greater than or equal to 6 feet. Wall thickness can also vary depending on the desired application.
For deeper forming applications, thicker walled sonotubes are available in 5′, or 6′ lengths. For residential and light commercial applications, 12′ length sonotubes are also available.
What can I use instead of a sonotube?
If you are looking for an alternative to a sonotube, there are a few possibilities depending on your specific needs. One option would be to use a round prefabricated concrete form such as a septic tank or culvert.
These are typically made of heavy-duty plastic and can be purchased in different sizes to meet your specific requirements. Another option is a concrete pier. This consists of two or more pre-made concrete forms spaced apart and filled with concrete mix.
This method is a bit more labor-intensive, but it can be just as effective as a sonotube. Finally,you could choose to use a stirrup footing. This involves pouring a continuous footing around the base of a post and anchoring it into the soil.
It is important to get an experienced contractor for this method to ensure it is done properly.
Why are Sonotubes different sizes?
Sonotubes are different sizes because they are used for different purposes. For example, sonotubes are typically used to support footings and deep foundations due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and dependable performance.
For these applications, a sonotube with a larger diameter would be used to support more weight and to provide the necessary stability. On the other hand, smaller sonotubes are often used to form specific shapes as well as for culvert applications.
They are also used for architectural projects like chimneys and vaults. By changing up the size and dimension of the sonotube, the user is able to get the best performance for their specific needs.
Do you need a footing under a sonotube?
Yes, it is important to use a footing under a sonotube when pouring a concrete slab in order to strengthen the slab and support any walls or structures that will be built on top of it. The footing should be poured with the same mix of concrete as the slab and should extend below the frost line of the area.
It should also be slightly wider in area than the sonotube itself. The footing should extend at least 6 or 8 inches below the bottom of the sonotube. Reinforcement should also be used in the footing and the slab such as rebar or wire mesh.
This will help ensure the stability and longevity of the overall structure.
Can you leave sonotube in the ground?
Yes, it is possible to leave sonotube in the ground. These large cylindrical tubes are often used to form the walls of a concrete footing, which can be left in the ground permanently. The tubes are typically made from either cardboard or rigid plastic, and they are filled with concrete to create a strong, durable foundation.
If a building is being constructed on top of the footing, then it is typically advised to fill the sonotube with a mix of concrete and waterproofing material. This will help protect the footing and structure from water damage.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the soil is not too moist before beginning the construction process, so that the concrete has enough time to adequately set and dry.
How many bags of concrete are in a 12 inch sonotube?
The amount of bags of concrete required for a 12 inch Sonotube depends on a variety of factors, such as the ground conditions, weight of the loads, etc. Generally, a 12 inch Sonotube with a height of 8-10 feet (2.
4-3m) will require 7-9 bags of concrete. However, make sure to always read the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you are using the correct amount of concrete for the specific Sonotube you have. For instance, if the Sonotube being installed needs a thicker wall or will be carrying heavier loads, additional bags of concrete may be needed.
Additionally, the soil or ground type can also affect how much concrete will be needed in relation to the Sonotube. When in doubt, it’s best to check with an expert or contact the local building department.
What is the purpose of Sonotubes?
Sonotubes are cylindrical cardboard or concrete forms that are used to create precise round columns. They can be used for such applications as concrete pier foundations, deck supports, flagpole bases, lamp post bases, and sign post foundations.
Sonotubes offer a relatively inexpensive and easy way to create long-lasting structures and foundations that are tall and slender. In addition, since the form is typically placed directly into the ground, the walls of the Sonotube can be exposed.
This is helpful for making minor adjustments during installation, allowing for more direct control over the finished result. Furthermore, since these forms typically come in a variety of sizes, Sonotubes can be used in a wide variety of applications, such as forming walls or pillars that are anywhere from 10 feet to 30 feet in height.
All in all, the purpose of Sonotubes is to provide an efficient and cost-effective way to create and install concrete round columns, pillars, and walls.
What kind of wood do you use for concrete forms?
When deciding what kind of wood to use for forms around concrete, it is important to take into consideration the type of application or service that the concrete form must perform. The most commonly used form lumber is spruce, pine or fir (SPF) construction grade lumber because they offer the combination of strength, stiffness, and reasonable cost.
Other types of lumber, such as Douglas-fir and Hem-fir, may also fit certain applications. However, hardwood is not recommended for concrete forms because of its splitting characteristics.
When using lumber for forms, seek out SPF construction grade lumber with fewer knots and other defects. The use of construction grade lumber should be supplemented with 19/32-inch-thick plywood for additives, such as curved walls to the form system.
Bars and grids of steel, plastic, or composite steel should be used in heavy-duty or abrasive applications or as necessary to secure the concrete form system to ensure a long service life.
Keep in mind, the type of wood used in the concrete form will experience some degree of damage over its service life. Therefore, it is important that the form system is designed with enough strength to allow for some degree of damage.
How thick do concrete forms need to be?
In general, concrete forms need to be thick enough to be able to withstand the weight and pressure of the wet concrete when it is pouring and settling. The thickness of the forms depends on the size and shape of the project and conditions such as the amount of cured concrete lift, the spacing of reinforcing steel, the shape of the forms and the amount of vibration from construction activities.
For a standard 4-inch-thick residential sidewalk pour, the forms should be at least 2 inches thick and spaced no more than 16 inches apart. For a larger project such as a poured concrete foundation wall, the forms should be at least 3 inches thick, no more than 12 inches apart and tied in at the corners to help with stability.
In addition, when building more complex shapes such as a curving driveway, the forms should be thicker in areas that require sharp changes in direction.
It is important to pour concrete in continuous strips to avoid weak spots that occur when the forms are out of alignment and to avoid leaving voids throughout the concrete surface. To help with this, forms should be cut and fit in place prior to pouring, and they must be able to resist shifting and warping when the concrete is being poured and cured.
Therefore, it is important to choose form materials and components that are thick and strong enough for the job.
Does concrete stick to wooden forms?
Yes, concrete will stick to wooden forms. However, it is important to ensure the wood is adequately sealed first with a brush-on release agent (preferably a wax-based variety) to prevent the mixture from adhering to the form’s surface.
It is also helpful to select a high-quality form material that does not easily absorb moisture, such as high-grade OSB (oriented strand board). The key is to make sure the form is properly sealed with the release agent so that the concrete does not adhere to the wood.
Additionally, make sure the form boards overlap one another and that all seams are sealed with a weatherproof caulk prior to pouring the concrete. Once the concrete is poured, it should be leveled with a straight edge and then left to cure for the recommended amount of time before any finishing touches are made.
Can pressure-treated lumber be set in concrete?
Yes, pressure-treated lumber can be set in concrete. Pressure-treated lumber is specially treated with chemical preservatives to help resist decay and insect infestation, making it ideal for outdoor uses such as construction projects, fences, decks, and docks.
As long as the lumber is properly sealed and not exposed to standing water, it can be installed in concrete. It is important to ensure that the lumber is well sealed before being set in concrete to make sure that the chemicals do not leach into the concrete.
Additionally, it is important to keep the lumber slightly above the surface of the concrete, or otherwise provide a waterproofing membrane between the lumber and the concrete, to prevent water from gathering and potentially damaging the wood.
For best results, it is recommended to use a concrete mix specifically designed for use with treated lumber.
Will concrete rot treated lumber?
No, concrete will not rot treated lumber. Treated lumber is treated with a chemical that seeps into the wood, making it resistant to decay and rot. The chemical treatment in treated lumber helps protect it from weather elements, mold, and fungus, which makes it a great choice for outdoor construction projects that are likely to be exposed to moisture and damp conditions.
The chemical treatment also helps increase the wood’s strength and durability. Concrete, in contrast, is a porous material that can be susceptible to water damage, rot, and mold, which is why it needs to be properly sealed in order to protect it from the elements.
How do you secure a 2×4 floor to concrete?
To secure a 2×4 floor to concrete, you will need to use concrete fasteners. These come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you should choose the appropriate size and length for the job at hand. Before using the fasteners, you should drill the appropriate-sized holes in the concrete, making sure they are deep enough so that the fasteners will hold securely.
Once the holes are drilled, you can hammer in the concrete fasteners. If you are attaching the 2×4 to the concrete with a lag bolt or screw, make sure it is long enough that it will penetrate at least two inches of the concrete.
Using a level, check to make sure your 2×4 is properly aligned before securing it with the fasteners. Additionally, use a sealant or caulking around the fasteners to ensure a water-resistant bond. Following these steps will ensure your 2×4 floor is properly and securely attached to the concrete.
What do you put between wood and concrete?
When building a structure that involves wood and concrete, there are several materials that must be used as a buffer between the two components. The most important material used to bridge the connection between wood and concrete is a waterproof rubber or polymer material that provides a durable yet flexible barrier between the two materials.
This flexible barrier helps to keep water from seeping in and damaging either type of material while also allowing any movement that may occur during the lifespan of the structure. In addition, sealants should be applied to create an even better barrier between the wood and concrete.
Other materials, such as caulking and foam, can be used as a buffer between the two materials as well, helping to bridge the gap while providing protection from the elements.
Can I glue a 2×4 to concrete?
Yes, you can glue a 2×4 to concrete. Such as construction adhesive or epoxy. To prepare the 2×4, you will need to sand off the varnish and lightly sand the concrete to give the adhesive a surface to grip onto.
If the surface is wet, you will need to wait for it to dry before attempting to glue the 2×4. You will need a caulk gun to spread the adhesive evenly and securely. Once the adhesive is applied, you will want to use clamps to press the 2×4 into place and ensure it sticks.
Finally, if you want extra security you can add screws and anchors to further secure it. Make sure to wait 24 hours for the adhesive to completely dry before using the 2×4.
Can you use plastic for concrete forms?
Yes, you can use plastic for concrete forms. The most common types of plastic used for concrete forming are high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Both plastic types have suitable characteristics for the purpose of forming concrete, including durability, flexibility, rigidity, and low cost.
With these two types of plastic, you should be able to create the forms you need to properly shape the concrete while it cures.
When using plastic forms, keep in mind that slightly more jagged edges can be produced in the cured concrete due to the flexibility of the plastic form. To ensure a smooth finish in your concrete, you can use a thick joint cover, or what is commonly referred to as “broom bristles”.
Although the finish may vary slightly, this will ensure a smoother surface once the concrete has cured.
In addition to these benefits, you should also consider safety when using plastic forms. Plastic models are lighter than their wood counterparts, which makes them easier to handle and less prone to accidents.
Furthermore, plastic forms are easier to clean, thereby reducing the risk of contamination in the concrete.
Overall, plastic is a great choice for concrete forms due to its cost, ease of use, shapeability, and the fact that there is no need for finishing materials. With these benefits, and with a little extra effort, plastic forms can be a viable option for your concrete projects.
What materials can be used for concrete formwork?
Formwork for concrete can be made out of a variety of materials, such as metal, wood, plastic, and fiberglass. Metal formwork is more common for commercial construction, as it is strong and durable, and rarely requires maintenance.
Wood formwork is light and easy to handle. It is also relatively inexpensive and less likely to sag given its lighter weight. Plastic formwork is often used as a cheaper alternative to wood formwork, as it can be more light weight, more quickly installed and more durable.
Fiberglass formwork can easily be adapted to complex surface shapes, and is designed to be corrosion-resistant. In addition, it is non-porous, minimizing absorption of water from the concrete and avoiding seepage to the environment.
Plywood is also frequently used in residential construction since it is easy to assemble and use.
How do you bend a concrete form?
Bending a concrete form requires special tools and techniques. To successfully bend a concrete form, you will need to ensure you have the right supplies and safety equipment on hand to make the process easier.
First, you will need to measure the form and mark the area you wish to bend. Next, you will need to use a pneumatic or hydraulic ram to apply pressure to the area. This pressure should be gentle to avoid damaging the form.
Once the desired shape is reached, you may need to use an electric heated blanket or a hot air gun to heat the form so it can be bent more easily. With the proper heating apparatus and safety equipment, you can slowly work the form into the desired shape.
It is important to remember to use caution when bending the form, and make sure to take several breaks since the process can be labor intensive. Additionally, bending forms can take a lot of time and patience, so make sure you plan for the length of time necessary for the project.
Making delicate bends in a concrete form can be challenging due to concrete’s rigidity, however, with the correct tools and techniques, you can successfully bend a concrete form.
What is the plywood for formwork?
Plywood for formwork is a type of construction material used to create the mold during the pouring and curing process of concrete. The formwork is typically made up of a wooden frame, often created from multiple pieces of 5/8- or 3/4-inch plywood, covered with a heavy-duty plastic sheeting to create a watertight box.
This is extremely important to protect the interior of the formwork from excess water or moisture that could cause the concrete to weaken or form poorly. By using plywood, formworks can be built quickly, effectively, and withstand the high pressure and vibration of concrete in the pouring process.
Plywood formworks can also easily be removed after the concrete has cured, leaving a strong and durable structure, ready for use.
