General Contractor Practice Exam 2025 - Free Contractor License Practice Questions and Study Guide

The generally accepted rule for the removal of forms for walls, columns, or pillars from concrete without specific instructions is 12 hours. This timeframe is based on standard practices in the construction industry, which consider the initial set time of concrete and the need to maintain structural integrity.

After concrete is poured, it undergoes a curing process, and while it begins to harden quickly, forms must remain in place long enough to support the weight of the concrete until it reaches sufficient strength. The 12-hour timeframe strikes a balance, allowing the initial setting to take place while minimizing delays in the construction schedule.

The purpose of this rule is to ensure that the concrete has adequately set to support itself once the forms are removed, thereby preventing potential structural issues that could arise from premature removal. Always refer to specific project guidelines or local building codes, as they may have more stringent requirements depending on the situation.