Western Container Corporation Resources
What Are Concrete Cardboard Tubes?
A Guide to Their Role in Construction from Western Container
Concrete cardboard tubes are a vital tool in modern construction, offering a simple, cost-effective way to shape concrete into strong, reliable structures. Whether you're building footings, columns, or piers, these cylindrical forms—made from durable, spiral-wound fiberboard—provide the mold that concrete needs to harden into precise shapes. At Western Container Corporation, we specialize in crafting custom concrete cardboard tubes that meet the demands of projects big and small, with sizes up to 20 inches in diameter and unbeatable quality.
Understanding Concrete Cardboard Tubes
Concrete cardboard tubes, often called concrete forming tubes or Sonotubes (a popular brand name), are temporary molds used to pour and set concrete. Made from layers of recycled paper or fiberboard, they’re wound tightly with adhesives to withstand the weight and pressure of wet concrete—known as hydrostatic pressure. Once the concrete cures, the tubes can be stripped away or left to degrade naturally, leaving a smooth, uniform structure behind.
These tubes come in various diameters—typically 6, 8, 12, 15, 18, or 20 inches—and lengths up to 20 feet, though Western Container customizes to your exact specs. They’re lightweight yet sturdy, making them easy to handle on-site while ensuring the concrete sets consistently. Unlike metal or plastic forms, cardboard tubes are affordable and eco-friendly, often made from recycled materials.
How Are Concrete Cardboard Tubes Used?
In construction, concrete cardboard tubes serve multiple purposes:
- Footings and Foundations: They create deep, cylindrical supports below ground, reducing excavation labor and stabilizing structures—perfect for decks, fences, or small buildings.
- Columns and Pillars: Above ground, they shape decorative or load-bearing columns, delivering smooth finishes for architectural appeal.
- Piers and Posts: For bridges, docks, or elevated homes, tubes form piers that resist moisture and shifting soil.
Western Container’s concrete cardboard tubes are engineered for single-pour jobs, handling full concrete lifts with precision bracing (think 2x4 collars at 90-degree intervals). Their moisture-resistant design—while not waterproof—holds up during pours, ensuring your project stays on track.
Why Choose Cardboard Over Other Materials?
Cardboard tubes outshine alternatives like steel or plastic in several ways:
- Cost-Effective: They’re cheaper to produce and buy, cutting project expenses without skimping on strength.
- Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled fiberboard, they’re a sustainable choice— Western Container prioritizes green manufacturing.
- Ease of Use: Lightweight and easy to cut, they save time on-site compared to heavy metal forms.
- Disposable or Degradable: Strip them off or let them break down naturally—no need for costly removal.
For example, a 12-inch diameter tube from Western Container can support a footing for a deck post at a fraction of the cost of reusable steel forms, with no compromise on structural integrity.
Why Western Container for Concrete Cardboard Tubes?
At Western Container, we’ve honed the art of concrete cardboard tube manufacturing from our Beloit, Wisconsin facility. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Customization: Need a 15-inch diameter tube for a unique column? We’ll craft it to your exact dimensions—no minimum order required.
- Quality Materials: Our tubes use high-strength fiberboard and top-tier adhesives, built to handle concrete’s weight and moisture.
- Fast Turnaround: With advanced spiral-winding tech, we deliver short runs or bulk orders quickly—call us at (800) 393-7917 for a quote.
- Competitive Pricing: In-house production keeps costs low, making us a go-to for contractors nationwide.
Our tubes have supported everything from backyard projects to commercial builds, earning trust across the U.S. for over decades of service.
Tips for Using Concrete Cardboard Tubes
To get the most out of your tubes:
- Brace Properly: Secure them with collars or stakes to prevent bowing—Western Container recommends anchoring at top, bottom, and midpoints for tubes over 12 feet.
- Pour Smart: Minimize free-fall distance to avoid stress on the tube walls; vibrate the concrete to eliminate air pockets.
- Check Regulations: Ensure your project meets local building codes—our team can guide you.
Order Your Custom Concrete Cardboard Tubes Today
Concrete cardboard tubes are the unsung heroes of construction—affordable, versatile, and reliable. At Western Container Corporation, we’re proud to lead the industry with custom solutions that fit your vision. Visit to explore our full range of paper tubes and cores, or contact us at (800) 393-7917 for a free quote. Let’s build something solid together.
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