How to Install Insulated Concrete Forms
Building with insulated concrete forms (ICFs) is a construction method that is faster than traditional stick construction and makes for stronger structures that are better insulated than most any other building material. The long life and durability of concrete coupled with its imperviousness to harsh weather conditions make ICFs an attractive building material. Working with ICFs is structural building work and requires skilled professionals experienced in the design and installation of the forms. ICFs come in many modular shapes, from long thin rectangles to broad squares, depending on the manufacturer and building size. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- ICF panels and ties
- Rebar and lumber temporary bracing supports
- Concrete supply with mixer and pumping hose
- Plasticizer concrete additive
- Excavation tools
- Spray construction marker or chalk
- Protective gloves and eyewear
Instructions
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Layout Plan
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1
Transfer building plan and wall placement onto the ground of the building site in final scale and finished position using a spray construction marker or chalk powder.
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2
Trench out foundation footings according to the scale building plan wall layout. The trenches should be just wide enough to hold the ICF snugly. Nestle ICFs into the trenches.
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3
Secure the ICF forms to one another by interlocking the edges, and to the bracing materials that are exerting stabilizing pressure onto both sides of the form and keeping it plumb and level.
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4
Fill concrete forms with concrete treated with a liquid plasticizer additive to increase ease of flow throughout the forms and prevent voids in final forms.
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5
Allow concrete and forms to cure for 28 days or in accordance with the ICF manufacturer's specifications. Remove the bracing materials and proceed with wiring and building finishes.
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