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It is important to keep concrete forming systems in place for the correct length of time. Here are 5 of the factors that can be used to determine what this time is.
When using a concrete forming system, it is very important to leave the formwork in place long enough for the concrete to dry and cure. If you do not, the project will likely end up lacking structural integrity. One way to determine how long to wait before removing the concrete formwork is to check out the American Concrete Institute’s removal time recommendations for different types of formwork. They are as follows: walls, columns, and vertical beams: 24 to 48 hours; slabs: 3 days; soffits: 7 days; props supporting slabs: 14 days; props for beams and arches: 14-21 days.
Low temperatures can slow down the concrete drying and curing process. As a result, concrete forming systems often need to be left in place longer than they otherwise would in colder climates or colder seasons.
Like cold weather, particularly hot weather can affect concrete drying time. However, rather than slowing it down, it causes the drying process to happen too quickly, causing cracking and structural degradation. Leaving concrete forming systems on longer than usual in hot weather can help mitigate moisture loss and protect the final product.
Moisture is another weather factor that can affect the concrete curing process. Concrete form removal time may be longer in particularly humid conditions.
If you use a quick-dry concrete mix, you will probably not need to leave your concrete forms in place as long as would otherwise be necessary.
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