1. Preparing Regular
HDO For Use
Olympic Panel high density overlay panels are not
factory release coated. Lightly coat panels prior to the first
use and before each subsequent pour with a chemically reactive
release agent that will not bond with, stain, or adversely
affect concrete surfaces. This makes stripping and cleaning
easier and provides more uniform concrete surfaces on all
pours. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for
application. More detailed information on coatings is
available in American Concrete Institute "Formwork for
Concrete."
2. Pouring and Vibrating
Panels are highly
resistant to abrasion and impact. However, as with any
surface, they can be damaged through improper use. Rate of
pour should be limited to that assumed in the design of the
form. The use of rubber-tipped vibrators is recommended, and
care should be exercised not to damage form faces during
vibrating.
3. Stripping
Most form panel damage occurs during
stripping. Panel life can be prolonged with proper stripping
and handling. Use wood wedges, rather than metal bars or
pries, to separate the form from the concrete. Form panels
should be lowered, not thrown or dropped.
4. Cleaning, Storage and Edge Sealing
Clean
panels after each use, employing burlap or flat,
non-scratching tools such as plastic or wood scrapers. If
concrete sticks to the surface, the overlay and wood substrate
could be pulled from the panel on subsequent pours. While
panels are factory edge sealed, it is important that any cut
edges or exposed wood at holes or openings be resealed with
two coats of a high quality polyurethane coating to retard
moisture penetration. The plywood could swell locally at these
locations if not sealed, causing an indentation in the
concrete. Stack panels flat to prevent warping. To minimize
surface degradation, store panels in a protected area to avoid
direct sunlight. More detailed cleaning and storage
information is available in American Concrete Institute
"Formwork for Concrete".
5. Surface Repairs
When panels do become
mechanically damaged, it may be desirable to fill in nicks and
gouges to restore the surface continuity. Clean any concrete
and release agent from the damaged area and, using a putty
knife, apply a polyester-resin auto body putty (such as Bondo
Auto Putty by Dynatron Bondo Co., Atlanta, GA. 30310). This
and similar products are available at local auto parts stores.
