INSULATED CONCRETE FORMS
Jon Michael ICF Construction has worked with Amvic, Nudura, Logix and other ICF manufacturers to build projects of all sizes and complexities. We have the skills and experience to turn your vision into reality, whether it is an addition to increase space to an existing home or a full height ICF custom home.
Insulated concrete forms (ICF) consist of two panels of rigid EPS foam connected by plastic webs. The ICF blocks are stacked in a staggered pattern to reach the specified wall height. The webs are designed to hold reinforcing steel in place during installation and while concrete is being poured. The result is a solid structural wall with continuous interior and exterior insulation.
The connecting webs provide attachment for exterior and interior finishes so there is no need to strap or frame ICF walls. Brick ledge and taper top ICF blocks allow for stone or brick finishes whether the above grade walls are ICF or conventionally wood framed.
Insulated concrete forms are ideal for both additions and new builds. ICF is lightweight making it easy to work with on construction site. Unlike concrete block or conventional concrete forms, ICF can be moved to tough areas like the rear of an existing home with minimal labour. For new builds, the ICF is bundled by the manufacturer and can be stacked on top of itself to save precious space and easily moved where it is needed on site.
ICF Project Services
Foundations
Keep your basement warm in winter and cool in the summer with an ICF foundation with no added insulation or framing required. The continuous insulation and thermal mass of the concrete means you will be dry and comfortable all year round.
Above Grade Walls
Enjoy a stronger and quieter home with above grade ICF walls. ICF is also ideal for walls separating loud areas from quiet ones or for party walls in semi-detached homes or townhomes.
Pools
ICF pools reduce heat loss compared with concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl. The result is lower energy consumption and lower energy bills letting you keep your pool open longer.
FOOTINGS: GETTING STARTED ON THE RIGHT FOOT
Footings are the first phase of any ICF project. Proper footing layout is critical for all the structural components throughout the project. Having level footings is integral for a quick and efficient ICF installation process. This includes correctly installing the rebar in the footing as well as dowels that will provide a connection between the footing and ICF wall.
ICF: TIME TO STACK
ICF walls are built row by row, installing reinforcing bar as the walls are built. Window and door openings are made as ICF is stacked. A specialized bracing system is used to hold the walls level, plumb, and straight. The bracing system allows walls to be adjusted while the concrete is poured to ensure any movement caused by the concrete is corrected. Throughout the concrete pour an internal vibrator is used to consolidate the concrete and make sure there are no air pockets. Anchor bolts are placed in the concrete if the above grade walls are being framed with wood. If the project is using ICF for above grade walls, rebar dowels are placed to connect the foundation walls to the main floor walls. After the concrete is poured the bracing is removed.
Waterproofing: Staying Dry
The exterior waterproofing is vital to a successful ICF build. A peel and stick membrane is applied to the exterior walls. Following that a drainage dimple board is attached to ensure water can drain to the weeping tile as well as protect the waterproofing from damage during backfill. Weeping tile is installed on the exterior of the footings to keep water out. Rainwater leaders would be installed at this phase for any windows requiring window wells. The weeping tile is covered in ¾” clear gravel to allow water to filter in and keep soil out