Quck answer
Removing forms after pouring concrete is an important step in the construction process. Here are the key steps to follow:
1. Wait for the concrete to cure: Concrete needs time to harden and gain strength. Typically, you should wait at least 24 to 48 hours, depending on the weather conditions and the type of concrete used.
2. Remove any bracing or supports: If you used any bracing or supports to hold the forms in place during pouring, start by removing them carefully. Use a hammer or pry bar to gently loosen and remove the supports.
3. Remove the form boards: Begin by removing the stakes that hold the form boards in place. Use a pry bar or hammer to carefully loosen the boards from the concrete. Start at one end and work your way along the form, being cautious not to damage the concrete.
4. Clean the forms: Once the forms are removed, clean them thoroughly to remove any concrete residue. This will help prolong their lifespan and ensure they can be reused for future projects.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively remove forms after pouring concrete, allowing the construction process to progress smoothly.
Concrete forms give shape to the concrete slab or structure. Take off the forms after the concrete has been poured, the slab is complete, and the cement is in the process of curing. Many concrete professionals remove the forms the day after pouring. However, the forms can be taken off as soon as the concrete is strong enough to not crack when the forms are removed. This is sometimes done on large projects where the forms are reused in another part of the pour.
Step 1
Remove the stakes and braces that hold the forms in place. In some cases, the stakes are nailed directly to the form lumber, while in others, the stakes are a distance away from the forms and connected by braces. Use a claw hammer or wrecking bar to remove the nails from the braces and stakes. If duplex or two-headed nails were used, a part of the nail should be visible for easy removal. Some builders use standard 16d nails and do not drive them flush into the board.
Step 2
Take out the nails that connect the form pieces at the corners using a hammer or wrecking bar. Again, the heads of the nails should be visible. After completing this step, each board that makes up the form will be separate from the others and can be handled individually.
Step 3
Remove the forms from the slab. Be cautious when removing the forms. The concrete is not fully cured at this point and can be easily damaged. Forms used in footings and other below-ground applications may require some excavation before they can be taken off.
Step 4
Clean the form lumber by scraping off any concrete that is stuck to the form using a putty knife or another sharp tool. The forms can be set aside for future use on other projects. Often, the braces and stakes are damaged or too short to be worth saving for reuse.
