Masonry as formwork

Masonry (natural stone, concrete or clay) can be used as permanent vertical formwork for beams and walls.

When designing a wall, particular care is required to take into account the lateral pressures from the fresh concrete. This lateral pressure may limit the height that can be cast in one pour. In addition care is required to make sure that the mortar joints between the masonry units are grout-tight to avoid stains on the exposed surface.