I would like to know what kind of material is suitable to make poured concrete steps in a semi-circle.?

Question

We are looking to find the type of material best suited to make a set of poured concrete steps. They will be quite large about 6 feet in diameter. They will be made in a semi-circle. What gauge of what type of metal would bend and yet be sturdy enough? - or should we get some type of wood? Any advice would be appreciated.

Answer 1

I would recommend 6mm plywood, and put in plenty of pegs, so that it will not bulge.

Answer 2

Luan is perhaps the most widely used product for this application. Luan is thin, and as a result, is flexible enough (unlike 1/4 inch plywood) to bend into an arch for pouring concrete. It's easy to cut into strips wide enough for the height of your step. It sounds like you've got every thing else sorted out!

Good Luck with your project!  ;-)

Answer 3

We use primed siding.You can buy it at any lumberyard.It makes nice bends for concrete and it stays sturdy.Make sure you put plenty of stakes and bracing in .You don't want a blow out on a step.

Answer 4

build your frame with 2x6s ,stakes ,and use louon for the arch (1/4 " plywood)