Building Beyond the Basement
Building beyond the basement - On-Site Magazine
The use of insulating concrete forms has evolved to address many of today’s construction challenges and ambitions.
Around for more than 40 years, Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) represent a simple solution to achieve many government- and industry-led climate or environmental goals. Among their benefits are air tightness, labour savings, energy efficiency, resiliency, low carbon intensity, and more.
Most ICF systems can be described as two sections of expanded polystyrene insulation connected by a series of plastic ties. These may arrive on a jobsite in block form, or they may be assembled on site. Blocks have interlocking joints on their edges to connect them together to form the structure. Steel rebar is placed horizontally on the webs and then concrete is cast in the form to create a structural wall. The plastic webs are embedded in the expanded polystyrene insulation and create flanges that the contractor can use to attach exterior and interior finishes. Many ICF companies have specially designed forms for brick ledges and corners.
Around for more than 40 years, Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) represent a simple solution to achieve many government- and industry-led climate or environmental goals. Among their benefits are air tightness, labour savings, energy efficiency, resiliency, low carbon intensity, and more.
Most ICF systems can be described as two sections of expanded polystyrene insulation connected by a series of plastic ties. These may arrive on a jobsite in block form, or they may be assembled on site. Blocks have interlocking joints on their edges to connect them together to form the structure. Steel rebar is placed horizontally on the webs and then concrete is cast in the form to create a structural wall. The plastic webs are embedded in the expanded polystyrene insulation and create flanges that the contractor can use to attach exterior and interior finishes. Many ICF companies have specially designed forms for brick ledges and corners.