The different concrete structures have different formwork removal times. In this article, we have covered the formwork removal time of the most common concrete structures used in the field of construction.
Formwork removal time is also called de-shuttering time.
Formwork removal time of concrete structures
The formwork can be removed after the concrete is appropriately hardened into the mold. The mold should be steel or aluminum or wood. The formwork removal time of most common concrete structures is given in the below table.
| Formwork Type | Formwork Removal Time |
| Wall Sides, Columns, and Vertical faces of the beam | 24 hours to 48 hours |
| Slabs (props left under) | 3-4 days |
| Beam soffits (props left under) | 7 days |
| Props Removal of Slabs: | |
| i) Slabs spanning up to 4.5m | 14 days |
| ii) Slabs spanning over 4.5m | 14 days |
| Props Removal for beams and arches | |
| i) Span up to 6m | 14 days |
| ii) Span over 6m | 21 days |
This formwork removal given in the above table is only for Ordinary Portland cement. OPC is the most common type of cement used for concrete structures.
Formwork removal time for other types of cement can be different due to their specific properties.
What is the best temperature for pouring concrete?
The suitable temperature to pour concrete varies between 38° to 58°F. Temperature is less than 38° can reduce the strength of concrete. Temperature more than 58° can lead to weakness, shrinkage, and cracking.
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Read more:
What is Formwork, Shuttering, Centering, Staging, and Scaffolding?