SNAP-IT Frequently Asked Questions

General questions

SNAP-IT is a modular plastic formwork system for creating permanent concrete garden edges. It replaces timber boxing and traditional shaping methods with a faster, cleaner, and DIY-friendly solution. Once poured, the concrete cures in place and the plastic can be trimmed flush.

All SNAP-IT components are made from durable, UV-resistant polymer. They’re built to stay in the ground and hold their shape for good. The plastic becomes part of the structure and is not removed.

SNAP-IT is faster to install, doesn’t rot or warp, and requires no ongoing maintenance. Unlike timber or steel, it stays in place and becomes part of the structure, giving you a long-term, professional finish without contractor costs.

STEP 01

Plan it.

Use the SNAP-IT Builder (coming soon!) to plan your layout and calculate how many straights, curves, and elbows you’ll need. Or choose a pre-made kit that suits your project size and shape.

Not at all. The SNAP-IT Builder (coming soon!) is a free, web-based tool that helps you plan and calculate your project. You can use it on your phone, tablet, or computer, no downloads or design experience required.

Yes. Use 90° or 45° Elbow Connectors for clean corners, or Landscape Curve Units for smooth transitions. Bending the plastic is not recommended, each component is designed to hold its shape. 

Yes. SNAP-IT is perfect for retrofitting around established trees, garden beds, and lawns. Use our SNAP-IT Builder (coming soon!) to plan your shape, then simply dig around the area and install SNAP-IT in sections. 

You’ll need a spade, snips (for trimming components), steel rebar (included in most kits), a hammer or mallet, and a SNAP-IT Finishing Trowel (included in most kits or sold separately). A string line or chalk is helpful for layout.

STEP 02

SNAP-IT together.

Yes, all units can be trimmed with snips for smaller spaces. Always leave a 10–20mm overlap between pieces for strength and a snug seal. 

In most cases, a shallow trench helps with levelling and keeping your layout stable during the pour. Dig to about the depth of the SNAP-IT channel and line with bedding sand if needed. 

 

Yes. A 6mm steel rod (or 2 rods for heavy-duty installs) must be laid inside the SNAP-IT channel before pouring concrete. Use Lock Pins to hold it in place.

Because SNAP-IT is modular, you can easily reposition or replace components before pouring. If your concrete is already poured, fixing the edge may require trimming or removing the section and repouring. 

STEP 03

Pour it.

A standard DIY mix works well: 

  • 2 parts 10mm aggregate (no fines) 
  • 2 parts sand 
  • 1 part cement 
  • Water to mix 

 

For smaller jobs, one 40kg bag of instant concrete will fill about 2.1m of SNAP-IT edging. 

Yes. You can mix oxides into your concrete to create coloured edging. Add the oxide when mixing your concrete and follow the manufacturer’s dosing instructions.

SNAP-IT is compatible with three main finishes: 

  • Trowelled: smooth and clean 
  • Brushed: light texture and grip 
  • Roller-imprinted: for decorative patterns (must use cling film to prevent sticking) 

 

Wait 30–45 minutes after pouring before finishing. 

STEP 04

Job done.

Leave your concrete to cure for 5 full days. Avoid heavy loads during this time.

Once cured: 

  • Use a flat spade to detach the sidewalls 
  • Trim any remaining plastic with a heavy-duty knife 
  • Backfill the edge with soil, mulch, grass, or stones 

Yes. SNAP-IT forms are designed to stay in place permanently. There’s no boxing to remove and no ongoing maintenance. 

No. SNAP-IT is designed to be a permanent in-ground formwork system. Once installed and poured, the components are trimmed and stay in place as part of the edging.

Orders, delivery, returns and support

SNAP-IT is manufactured in New Zealand and ships across NZ and Australia. Contact us if you’re based elsewhere, we’re actively expanding. 

Yes. International shipping is available by arrangement. 

No. SNAP-IT is sold direct from our warehouse but not open for public visits. Orders can be placed online and shipped directly to you. 

Contact us at info@snapitedging.com within 5 days of receiving your delivery. We’ll work with you to replace or refund any damaged or missing items as quickly as possible. 

If your order hasn’t shipped yet, we may be able to make changes. Get in touch with us as soon as possible at info@snapitedging.com. Once your order is dispatched, changes or cancellations may not be possible. 

Because SNAP-IT is a construction product and often cut or installed on site, we generally can’t accept returns unless the product is faulty. If there’s an issue with your order, just reach out, we’re here to help. 

Still have questions?

Get in touch via info@snapitedging.com or check out: