Steel shuttering plates can be reused many times, but how many depends almost entirely on how they're treated on site. These habits keep plates flat, clean and producing a good finish.
Before every pour: release agent
Apply a thin, even coat of shuttering oil or release agent to the face. It stops concrete sticking, makes stripping easier and protects the steel from rust. Don't over-apply: puddles of oil stain the concrete.
Right after stripping: clean
- Scrape off concrete and slurry while it's still soft. Hardened concrete is much harder to remove.
- Use a scraper or wire brush, not a hammer on the face.
- Clear the edge holes so pins and clamps fit next time.
Handle with care
- Don't throw or drop plates from height. Bent frames don't sit flat.
- Don't use plates as walkways or ramps.
- Strip with proper tools, not by hammering the face.
Store them properly
- Stack flat on level bearers, off the ground.
- Keep them covered from rain to prevent rust.
- Sort by size so they're quick to count and load.
Repair early
Straighten small bends and re-weld cracked stiffeners before the next use. A plate that's slightly out of shape leaks slurry and spoils the finish around it.
Plywood too
For shuttering ply: seal cut edges, apply release agent every time, clean immediately, and store flat and dry. Water getting into the edges is what ruins ply fastest.
Renting from us? Material comes cleaned and checked, and following these steps keeps damage charges at the end of the rental to a minimum.