Particles of concrete stick to the Forms. In order to prevent this,
give the surface next the concrete a coat of oil or soft soap. Linseed,
black or cylinder oil may be used. Never use kerosene.
Before erecting, paint the Forms with the oil or soap. Then carefully
protect them from dust or dirt until erected. Upon removal, immediately
clean off all the particles of concrete sticking to the surface. A
short-handled hoe will take off the worst, while a wire brush is most
effective for finishing. Be careful not to gouge the wood in cleaning,
as it will spoil the surface of your next section of concrete. It will
not be found necessary to repaint after each time of use. Watch the
surface and repaint if it appears dry in spots.
If chips or blocks of wood fall inside the Forms while erecting,
carefully remove them. The space inside the Forms is intended for the
concrete; and care should be taken to see that only concrete is placed
there.
The necessity of Forms presents a problem calling for the use of
that ingenuity for which the farmer is justly famed. Forms can be
economically placed in so many ways that only one example will be
given. A foundation Form in place is shown in the photograph. Note the
simple and easy method of bracing. Also note how lumber is saved from
cutting by allowing the sides to project, as well as the studding.
For this building, 18 by 24 feet, trench 18 inches wide and 2 feet
deep—total cost of setting forms $4.00. The lumber was all on hand and
can be used again.