Mould release oil is applied to formwork, shuttering, and mould faces before concrete is poured. It reacts with the cement at the surface to allow the hardened concrete to be removed cleanly without sticking or tearing. It also helps protect timber moulds from water absorption and swelling, which extends the life of the shuttering and makes re-use much easier. Apply it before the first pour and reapply after each use once the mould has been stripped and cleaned.
Mould Release Oil, 2-Stroke Oil & Site Fuels for Trade and DIY
MacBlair stocks a focused range of fuels and oils suited to trade and DIY building work, covering the products most commonly needed on a construction site or during home improvement projects. From mould release oil for formwork and shuttering to 2-stroke oil for chainsaws and petrol-powered tools, the range keeps the right products within easy reach.
Mould release oil is applied to timber, steel, and plastic formwork faces before casting concrete. It reacts chemically with the cement at the surface to give a clean, smooth release without staining, and protects wooden shuttering from swelling and moisture damage between pours. The full chemicals range at MacBlair also includes additives and dyes, brick and patio cleaners, and damp-proofing treatments, making it a practical one-stop destination for site chemicals.
2-stroke oil is an essential buy for anyone running petrol-powered equipment. Chainsaws, strimmers, and similar tools require oil mixed directly with petrol to lubricate the engine during combustion. Using the correct oil and mix ratio keeps engines running cleanly and protects against premature wear. Check the equipment manufacturer's manual for the recommended ratio before mixing. For jobs where adhesives or sealants are also needed, MacBlair's adhesives range covers everything from PVA to contact adhesives and anchoring resins.
Alongside the fuels and oils here, the broader chemicals section covers surface treatments and waterproofing. For machinery and equipment upkeep, the lubricants range carries additional maintenance products. Order online for delivery across Northern Ireland, or visit a MacBlair branch to pick up what you need.
Fuel & Oil FAQ's
Most modern chainsaws use a 50:1 ratio, meaning 50 parts petrol to 1 part 2-stroke oil. For a 5-litre can of petrol, that works out at 100ml of oil. Always check your specific chainsaw's operator manual, as older or specialist models can require a different ratio. Using the wrong mix can cause overheating, carbon build-up, or accelerated engine wear, so it is worth getting this right before you start.
Not all 2-stroke oils are the same. For chainsaws, strimmers, and similar outdoor power tools, look for an oil that meets the JASO FD or ISO L-EGD specification. Many tool manufacturers also recommend their own branded oil. Using a low-quality or incorrect oil can damage seals, fuel lines, and engine components over time. If your tool is still under warranty, using a non-approved oil could also affect your cover, so it pays to check the manual before buying.
All fuels and oils on site should be kept in clearly labelled, sealed containers and stored on an impermeable surface away from drains, watercourses, and areas where vehicles could collide with them. In Northern Ireland, if you store oil on your premises you may need to comply with oil storage regulations. Containers should be placed on drip trays to catch any leaks or small spills. Keep storage areas locked when not in use and never leave open containers unattended.
A fuel mix you have made yourself can start to degrade after around 30 days. The petrol oxidises, the volatile components evaporate, and the octane rating can drop. It is best to mix only what you need for the job rather than making a large batch and leaving it sitting in a can. If you store mixed fuel, keep it in a clean, sealed, approved container away from direct sunlight and heat. Stale fuel is one of the most common causes of starting problems and poor performance in 2-stroke tools.