Panels are typically cast outside face up.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on project
• D. Only for certain sizes

Answer: (B)

The main idea is how the casting orientation determines which surface becomes the exterior after the panel is tilted into place. In tilt-up construction, the exterior face is typically produced by the surface that was in contact with the bed during pouring, i.e., the bottom or face-down side. Casting the exterior surface down onto a smooth bed allows better control of the exposed finish, reduces the risk of formwork marks or damage to the exterior face during handling, and leaves the opposite (top) surface to be the interior, where finish quality is less critical. If the exterior were cast face up, that surface would be more exposed to dust, discharge from the forms, and potential damage while the panel cures and is moved, leading to a poorer exterior finish. While there can be project-specific reasons to vary this approach, the standard practice is to cast with the outside face down, not up.