More On Insulating Concrete Forms

Flex Formation, Building Design & Construction, 02-02, discusses the increasing adoption of insulating concrete form (ICF) systems for nonresidential construction, where it competes with construction systems such as light-gauge metal frame, wood frame, masonry, and precaset concrete. Some noteworthy points raised in the article include:

• ICF construction consists of cast-in-place concrete walls, 4 to 10 inches thick, constructed with expanded polystyrene forms that, unlike conventional formwork, are not removed after the concrete pour but rather become part of the final construction.
• In addition to higher energy efficiency, ICF system manufacturers claim benefits such as design flexibility, acoustic and thermal control, jobsite safety, cost efficiency, and ease of installation.
• The insulating effect of the formwork allows concrete pours in lower ambient temperatures.
• The Insulating Concrete Form Association claims that nonresidential construction now represents 20% of the ICF market.

According to the article, ICF systems may be categorized as block, panel, or plank. Insulating units for block systems range from 8 x 16 inches to 16 x 48 inches. They are stacked in place and fit together with various types of interlocking edges. Panel systems are preassembled formwork sections ranging in size from 1 x 8 feet to 4 x 12 feet. Sections may be prefabricated off- or on-site prior to placing in final position. Plank systems range in size from 8 to 12 inches high by 4 to 8 feet wide and in contrast to plank systems are assembled in place.

More Information:
Insulating Concrete Forms
Rastra Insulating Concrete Formwork