What maintenance does the formwork need?

When a company decides to buy formwork, it is making an investment. We want to make sure that the greatest benefit is derived from the purchase, so in this article we will look at how to ensure that the formwork will last for many years by performing effective cleaning and maintenance.

Periodic Maintenance

To ensure that the formwork is always ready for use, it is necessary to perform maintenance regularly. It is necessary to inspect the formwork elements before and after use, and take measures to protect the formwork forms, which will be described below.

Formwork Lubricant

To make formwork removal easy, lubricant is applied to the surface of the formwork forms. Such measures facilitate easy dismantling of the formwork and removal of concrete residues from metal, plywood or plastic elements. Formwork lubricant prevents corrosion on metal parts of the formwork when it comes into contact with water.

Formwork Cleaning

Construction companies use formwork almost continuously. Finishing one project. Taking on another, so the formwork is always in use. But it is necessary to find opportunities and time to clean and inspect the formwork elements after use. High-pressure washers and hand tools allow you to wash off the remains of adhered concrete. At the same time, dried concrete can be removed from the formwork with a scraper, but it is recommended to wear eye protection.

Inspection of the formwork

When the formwork is cleared of concrete mix residues, it must be carefully inspected for damage. Some damage can be cosmetic, while others threaten the destruction of the formwork elements. Chips or peeling powder paint can provide access for water to oxidize the steel surface. All functional openings of the formwork must be cleaned of concrete so that the elements are ready for the next use. Damaged elements must be removed and replaced so that they do not reject the future monolith.

Storage of the formwork

When the cleaning, inspection and replacement of the unusable parts of the formwork are completed, the formwork is either sent to the warehouse for storage or to the next site. It is recommended to apply a protective lubricant to the formwork elements to protect against corrosion during storage. When storing formwork elements, it is recommended to use spacers that allow for an even distribution of the load. Wooden formwork beams should be protected from moisture and good ventilation should be provided.

The formwork requires regular cleaning and repair if necessary. Formwork panels should be checked for cracks, panel frames - the integrity of welds, deformations, holes, cracks. The powder coating must be intact, otherwise it can be reapplied to the elements in the absence of damage from corrosion.

Call us if you need formwork, which you can buy from us at a discount!

We also suggest that you read the article "Tasks and functions of formwork".