ICF & Build Elements
What You Should Know About ICF
A guide by the Insulating Concrete Formwork Association
How does ICF construction integrate with other build elements?
When making a choice on materials you need to be safe in the knowledge that everything will seamlessly work together. As a Modern Method of Construction (MMC) an insulated solid wall construction method like ICF is considered as non-standard. However, despite its title of being ‘modern’, in reality, the ICF construction system has been used by developers for over 50 years. In that time the build method has seamlessly integrated with almost all build elements available – both standard and non-standard. This could be anything from a traditional slate tile pitched roof, energy-saving solar panels or even high-end design elements such as glass internal walls or metal staircases.
ICF Construction – Design Flexibility
When choosing the build elements for your project, you select most systems, whether standard or non-standard, against a criteria of affordability, aesthetics or to deliver project goals e.g. enhanced energy efficiency.
One of the advantages of building with ICF is the flexibility of the system. The inherently adaptable system can successfully interface with standard and non-standard systems, materials and products. Typically, you will install most build elements after the concrete pour, although this does depend on your choice of ICF product.
How Does ICF Construction Work?
When constructing an ICF property it requires only two key and common construction materials – the formwork and concrete.
ICF Construction – Installing Build Elements
We always advise speaking to your ICF supplier during the design stage. They may have supporting details that suit your project and can save time. They can also advise on build element areas that may require special consideration.
When constructing an ICF property, you install most build elements using the following methods although you should always check with your supplier.
Windows & Doorways
Cut out spaces for the windows and doors as the build progresses. Before the concrete pour, install any necessary reinforcement bars or steel beams as per the engineering design.
Main Services
Pre-planning the service penetrations and openings will ensure you do not require additional labour during the build process. If mains services are to pass through the wall, you will typically install these before the concrete pour.
Internal Services
Chase internal services such as electrical wiring and piping out of the formwork. The most common finish internally is plasterboard which you can install directly onto the walls.
Floor & Roof
ICF blocks can work with the most commonly encountered floor and roof types. These include wooden joists, concrete beams and block concrete hollow core plank or corrugated sheet steel. You may require wall connectors, anchor bolts or cutting in of the block to accommodate the system.
Facing Materials
Plasterboard is the most common internal finish. You can install the plasterboard directly on to the walls. External facing materials include render, regular brick skin, timber cladding, brick slips and stone or rainscreen cladding.
Heating Systems
Take your time to research advanced or expensive heating systems such as underfloor heating, heat pumps, wind generators etc. It may be necessary to lay the appropriate pipework or ducting in preparation for the additional systems at the carcass stage.
Contact Us
Interested in finding out how ICF construction integrates with your building elements? Get in touch today!