There are a number of different mold releases for concrete that can make the un-molding process much easier. The goal is to pick a concrete form release that coats the inside of the form but does not contaminate the internal hardware and structure inside the form. If you can use it PAM is the best release that I have tested. A light coat on the inside of the form and the casting comes out quite easily. Wax has its moment too because it can be applied and then stays on the surface until the concrete is cast. This is useful for complex forms with lots of internal structure. It is important to follow these instructions when using wax as a release. Apply the wax before you assemble the form to make it as easy as possible. Make sure to buff off any white residue that forms on the treated surfaces. This cloud of wax will end up on the finished casting if you skip this step. The resulting headache is not worth it. Buff it off now...please. A rag dipped in motor oil or vegetable oil can be used just prior to casting to give another layer of release to the waxed surfaces. The goal here is to moisten the surface with the smallest amount of oil as possible. There is wax on there already so be miserly. Other concrete form release agents can be purchased such as smooth-on’s In & Out mold release. I have found the other products to be more effective but that could be operator error.



Whatever you use try not to use so much release that it colors the concrete. Definitely avoid letting the release drip or puddle inside of the form.