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Questions
Twenty-two question records on the composition, sizing, cost, installation and code status of the Formtech insulated concrete form system.
- What is the reversible Formtech ICF?
- The Formtech ICF consists of two identical panels of fire retardant expanded polystyrene. Each panel is 48 inches long and 16 inches high with a thickness of 2 1/2 inches. The reversible EPS panels have embedded grippers, which are manufactured from injection-molded certified grade polypropylene. The reversible block is made by standing two panels, facing with grippers opposite, and inserting cavity webs. These cavity webs are available in multiple widths, ranging from 2 1/2 to 20 inches depending on the application and type of structure.
- What is EPS (expanded polystyrene)?
- EPS is constructed from millions of tiny air cells fused in manufacturing to form a rigid material. EPS contains no CFCs or HCFCs and has a zero ozone depletion rating. It is totally inert and considered one of the best insulating materials available.
- Where are Formtech ICFs manufactured?
- Formtech EPS panels, corners and brickledge are manufactured by SCA North America, Packaging Division, in several locations across the United States. The cavity webs are genuine WEBTEC components, produced to engineering standards, and the webs are manufactured by SciMould Inc. in Barrie, Ontario, Canada.
- How much do ICFs cost?
- Formtech ICFs are competitively priced. Freight to the job site is additional. Specific pricing and a dealer referral are handled through the company directly.
- How will the homeowner save money?
- The Formtech ICF is competitive with conventional construction and in the long term will save money due to reduced energy costs. Because of the enhanced R-factor it costs much less to heat and cool. An ICF home is wind, storm and fire resistant, frequently reducing insurance costs.
- How do I purchase Formtech ICFs?
- Purchases are made through the dealer network, and the company refers enquiries to the dealer nearest the project.
- Do you provide on-site service?
- Yes. Formtech provides ongoing training and on-site technical support, and experienced ICF trainers are available worldwide.
- Is the Formtech ICF easy to use?
- The Formtech ICF requires no special corner or intercepting wall forms, making it simple to use. Corners, T-sections, angles, curves and other special needs are all constructed from the basic panel. The forms are lightweight and there is very little cleanup on the jobsite once the project is complete. The reversible tread design and pre-molded corner make construction straightforward, and the same corner block is used for both left and right corner applications.
- What kind of finishings can you use with Formtech ICFs?
- All types of interior and exterior finishes are attached directly to the embedded strapping with non-corrosive, self-tapping screws. No vapor or air barrier is required. The brick ledge panel provides a straight and solid base for exterior brick finishes.
- What are the advantages of building with Formtech ICFs?
- The reversible one-panel-for-every-use form eliminates confusion. Since there is no designated top or bottom to blocks, and corners work for either right or left turns, there is less waste and increased savings. The molded corner blocks carry additional plastic at pressure points. Blocks ship flat, reducing shipping costs significantly, and panels are packaged in heavy-duty bags that offer protection from the elements.
- How does the cost compare to conventional construction?
- The cost of Formtech ICF construction, in most cases, is comparable to conventional construction.
- Will there be energy savings?
- Yes, because of the enhanced R-factor there is less to heat and cool. The saving depends on the design, and windows are a large factor.
- How will building with ICFs affect the future value of my home?
- A Formtech home is stronger, safer and virtually maintenance free. The appraisal value of the home will be more than a stick-built home.
- How does the Formtech ICF affect the environment?
- The Formtech ICF is an environmentally responsible product. It reduces demand on forestry, it is 100 percent recyclable, and it contains no CFCs or HCFCs.
- What size do the cavity webs come in?
- Cavity webs are available in multiple widths. Standard sizes are 4, 6, 8 and 10 inches. A special extension web allows for 12, 14, 16, 18 and 20 inches. Custom widths are also available.
- What type of tools will I need to work with Formtech ICFs?
- Simple construction tools are all that is needed: a hammer, key-hole saw, hand saw, fiberglass tape with dispenser, wind lock with screws, pliers with tie-wire, foam gun, chalk-line, pruning shears, yankee twister with loop ties, sure-form rasp, cordless drill, level, tape measure, utility knife with extended blade, stringline, rebar cutter and bender, and a step ladder. The installation guide sets out the full list.
- What method should be used to pour the concrete?
- Concrete can be placed using a concrete pump, conveyor belt, crane and bucket, or a chute directly from the truck. A pump is the easiest method, using a 4 inch reducer in the hose and double 90 degree elbows to reduce the concrete velocity. A before-you-pour checklist should be completed first. A 5 to 6 inch concrete slump is recommended, though engineering specifications or building codes may specify a different slump for a particular site.
- Is waterproofing required below grade?
- Yes. When using the Formtech ICF below grade an approved non-oil-based waterproofing system should be used. A membrane type system is preferable in most applications.
- How do you run the electrical or plumbing?
- Services access cavities are cut before the pour using a saw, utility knife or hot knife, and the service pipes or sleeves are placed in the openings, with gaps foamed to prevent leakage. Once the pour is complete, cavities for wiring and plumbing can be cut into the surface using a router, chainsaw or hot knife. Place the services in the chase and spray with seal foam, observing all code requirements.
- What type of interior and exterior finishes can be used?
- Formtech ICF blocks can accept any type of interior or exterior finish, including stucco. Finishes attach easily to the embedded strapping at 8 inch intervals with non-corrosive, self-tapping screws. No vapor or air barrier is required.
- Does Formtech have an ICBO-ES legacy report?
- Yes. The ICBO-ES legacy report number is ER-5741.
- Does Formtech have the SBCCI-ES report?
- Yes. The SBCCI-ES report number is 2043.