Construction Teams Strengthen Wood Formwork Maintenance to Improve Reusability

At several residential building sites this quarter, contractors are placing more focus on how wood formwork is used and maintained. Although steel and plastic panels are gaining market attention, wood formwork remains widely chosen for its flexibility and lower upfront cost. Because its lifespan depends heavily on handling quality, crews are adopting better daily practices to keep each panel in usable condition for as long as possible.

One of the main priorities is protection against moisture. Before installation, workers apply release oil evenly on the panel surface, helping prevent concrete from sticking and reducing the chance of water absorption. On rainy days, supervisors insist that unused panels stay stacked under waterproof covers. Any soaked timber is set aside to dry before reuse to avoid bending or surface damage.

Cutting and drilling are also controlled more strictly. Instead of making quick adjustments with large tools, carpenters now mark cutting points precisely to avoid unnecessary damage to the plywood structure. Reinforcement strips are added around openings so that the panel keeps its strength during concrete pours.

Cleaning after dismantling has become a routine requirement. Crews scrape off small patches of concrete while they are still soft, preventing deep marks on the surface. Panels showing cracks or exposed cores are separated for repair instead of being returned directly to service.

Site managers have also introduced a color-tag method: green for new panels, yellow for slightly worn, and red for those close to retirement. This simple system helps workers choose panels more wisely depending on structural demand, which reduces the risk of breakage during key pours.

While wood formwork System may seem like a consumable material, contractors are proving that careful handling can significantly extend its lifespan. Better maintenance not only lowers project costs but also cuts waste, helping construction teams strike a balance between efficiency and sustainable practice on site.