InsulatingConcreteFormworkMethodofComstruction.pdf

ICF

1. MODERN METHOD OF
CONSTRUCTION:
INSULATING CONCRETE
FORMWORK (ICF) PREPARED BY LACANILAO, JHONNEL
VILLACORTA, CHRISTINE
ENSC 121 - Construction Methods and Project Management

2. ICF (Insulating Concrete Formwork) is a
modern construction method.
Uses interlocking blocks or panels made of
insulating materials (like polystyrene).
These blocks are stacked like Lego and filled
with reinforced concrete.
Unlike traditional formwork, the forms stay
in place and serve as permanent insulation. WHAT IS ICF?

3. INSULATING CONCRETE FORMWORK (ICF)

4. INSULATING CONCRETE FORMWORK (ICF)

5. INSULATING CONCRETE FORMWORK (ICF)

7. 1. Early Formwork Background
Traditionally, concrete walls were
formed using timber or engineered
formwork, which required temporary
structures and added labor and
material costs.
While effective, these systems lacked
built-in insulation and energy
efficiency. HISTORY OF ICF

8. HISTORY OF ICF 1930s – Europe (Switzerland)
First generation of ICF introduced.
Durisol developed: made from recycled
wood fibers bonded with cement.
Advantage: cheaper labor cost, could be
used by mostly unskilled workers.

9. 1960s – North America (Canada)
Canadian contractor Werner Gregori
patented the “Foam Form” (1966).
Used expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam
blocks that interlocked like Lego.
This innovation allowed the form to stay in
place permanently as insulation.
Used expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam blocks that interlocked like Lego. HISTORY OF ICF

10. INSULATING CONCRETE FORMWORK (ICF)

11. 1970s – 1980s
ICF systems refined into block-style and
panel-style designs.
Companies like Quad-Lock and
Thermoform began producing advanced
systems.
More durable connectors and improved
insulation values were introduced.
Used expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam blocks thocked like Lego. HISTORY OF ICF

12. Modern Development
The Insulating Concrete Form Association
(ICFA), established in the 1990s, helped
promote the system for energy-efficient
and disaster-resistant construction.
Today, ICF is widely used in residential and
commercial construction for its structural,
thermal, and environmental benefits. HISTORY OF ICF

13. ICF IN CONSTRUCTION

14. 1. Planning and Design
The ICF system is selected based on the project requirements, whether residential, commercial, or
high-performance buildings. The design process considers wall thickness, placement of
reinforcement, insulation requirements, and the orientation of forms (horizontal or vertical).
Structural engineers and architects collaborate to ensure both load-bearing capacity and thermal
efficiency are met.
2. Site Preparation
The construction site is leveled, and foundation work—such as footings or frost-protected shallow
foundations—is completed. Proper alignment, leveling, and stability are ensured to support the ICF
walls effectively.
3. ICF Assembly
Interlocking ICF blocks or panels are dry-stacked similarly to Lego bricks. Reinforcement bars (rebar)
are placed within the forms according to the structural plan. Corner units and openings for doors or
windows are installed using specially designed blocks. ICF IN CONSTRUCTION

15. ICF IN CONSTRUCTION 4. Concrete Pouring
After the forms are assembled and rebar is positioned, concrete is poured or pumped into the
hollow cores. The ICF serves as both a permanent mold and insulation. Vibration may be applied to
ensure proper compaction and avoid voids.
5. Curing and Finishing
The concrete cures inside the ICF forms, typically taking 24–48 hours for initial setting, depending on
the climate and concrete mix. Exterior and interior finishes, such as plaster, drywall, or siding, can be
applied directly to the insulation panels.
6. Integration with Other Systems
Electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems can be incorporated through pre-designed channels
or chases in the forms before pouring the concrete. The permanent insulation provided by ICF
improves energy efficiency and enhances acoustic performance.

16. ICF CONSTRUCTION PROCESS

17. ICF CONSTRUCTION PROCESS 1. Site and Foundation Preparation
Level the construction site and pour the footings or foundation slab.
Make sure the foundation is square, level, and aligned to match the ICF wall layout.
2. Stacking the ICF Blocks / Panels
Begin assembling ICF blocks or panels at the corners first.
Use the interlocking system to dry-stack blocks without mortar.
Ensure blocks are plumb and aligned, using levels and string lines.
3. Rebar Installation
Place reinforcement bars (rebar) vertically and horizontally inside the hollow cores as specified in the
structural plan.
Rebar is tied at intersections to maintain correct position during concrete pouring.
4. Bracing and Alignment
Install temporary braces or supports to prevent movement during pouring.
Check wall plumb, level, and straightness.

18. ICF CONSTRUCTION PROCESS 5. Concrete Pouring
Pour or pump ready-mix concrete into the hollow cores of the stacked ICF blocks.
Use a vibrator or mechanical method to ensure proper compaction and avoid voids.
Pour in lifts (layers) if walls are tall to prevent form bulging.
6. Curing
Allow concrete to set and cure, typically 24–48 hours for initial set, depending on weather and mix.
Forms remain in place as permanent insulation and substrate.
7. Finishing
Exterior and interior walls can be finished with drywall, plaster, stucco, or siding directly on the ICF
panels.
Openings for windows, doors, and utilities are finished using special inserts or channels.

19. ICF SUITABILITY

20. ICF SUITABILITY 1. Energy-Efficient Buildings
Ideal for residential and commercial buildings that aim to be highly energy-efficient.
ICF walls provide continuous insulation, reducing heating and cooling costs.
2. Disaster-Resistant Structures
Suitable for areas prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, or floods.
Reinforced concrete in ICF walls offers high structural strength and durability.
3. High-Performance Residential Buildings
Excellent for low- to medium-rise homes aiming for superior thermal and acoustic performance.
Helps meet green building standards and energy codes.
4. Severe Climate Conditions
Works well in extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, due to the thermal insulation properties of
the forms.
Can be combined with frost-protected shallow foundations (FPSF) in cold regions.

21. ICF SUITABILITY 5. Projects Requiring Fast and Efficient Construction
Prefabricated modular units allow faster assembly compared to traditional timber or masonry walls.
Reduces labor costs and construction time, especially in repetitive structures.
Key Consideration:
While highly versatile, ICF is best suited for projects where the benefits of thermal efficiency,
durability, and disaster resistance outweigh the slightly higher material costs compared to
conventional concrete or timber walls.

22. MERITS OF ICF 1. Energy Efficiency
Provides continuous insulation for walls, reducing heating and cooling energy consumption.
Helps buildings meet green building standards and energy codes.
2. Structural Strength and Durability
Reinforced concrete core offers high load-bearing capacity.
Resistant to fire, wind, earthquakes, and floods, enhancing building safety.
3. Sound Insulation
Thick ICF walls provide excellent acoustic insulation, ideal for residential and commercial projects
near noisy environments.
4. Faster Construction
Modular interlocking units allow quick assembly compared to traditional timber or masonry
formwork.
Reduces labor costs and construction time.

23. MERITS OF ICF 5. Low Maintenance
Forms remain in place permanently as interior and exterior insulation, reducing the need for
additional finishing layers.
Durable against environmental factors, extending building lifespan.
6. Design Flexibility
Can accommodate various wall shapes, openings, and architectural designs.
Easily integrates with plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.
7. Environmentally Friendly
Reduces waste compared to traditional timber formwork.
Some ICF units use recycled materials, promoting sustainability.

24. DEMERITS OF ICF 1. Higher Material Costs
ICF units are generally more expensive than traditional timber or masonry formwork.
Initial investment is higher, though offset by energy savings over time.
2. Specialized Labor Required
Proper installation requires workers trained in ICF assembly, bracing, and concrete pouring.
Mistakes in stacking or rebar placement can compromise structural integrity.
3. Limited Availability
ICF products may not be widely available in all regions, especially in developing areas.
Transportation of modular units can be a challenge for remote sites.
4. Concrete Pouring Challenges
Concrete must be poured carefully to avoid overpressure, bulging, or voids.
Requires attention to vibration and lift heights, especially for tall walls.

25. DEMERITS OF ICF 5. Design Limitations for Complex Shapes
While flexible in many ways, highly curved or intricate architectural forms may require custom units.
Can be less adaptable than traditional timber for unique or very detailed designs.
6. Finishing Considerations
Some finishes, like brick veneer or stone, may require special attachment methods.
Additional exterior cladding or coatings may increase cost and time.

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