Considering ICF’s for construction in the long term future, and I’m just kinda confused about the whole finishing aspect of them. Browsing around the internet, I’ve seen stucco finishes, and such, what other options are there that are easy for a non-experienced crew?
I like the idea of ICF’s, but more information on installing windows and doors, electrical, interior & exterior finishes would be great.
Any great websites to check out (I don’t really have time to sit down with a book, and read, besides I need lots of pictures)?
Replies
Most manufacturers will have info addressing your questions, but heres a few:
Windows, Doors - most people use wooden "bucks" (just forms) Proceed as you would with a wooden house.
Electrical - hot knife, or electric chainsaw grooves in the foam - very easy. I recommend the chainsaw. Wire stuffed to the back 2-1/2" of the foam stays in place. Dabs of foam near the boxes pass inspection requirements.
Drywall - hang it like you always do, on the studs (they're in there)
Exterior - siding, brick, whatever you want. Some like stucco, b/c its already foam, saves a step for some systems.
I worried/researched/doubted before I used them. Its really a piece of cake, just a little to learn. Best wishes.
nater,
my best advice is get the manual from the dealer,.. lots of pictures how to's, etc..
It's also a major clue as to how good your dealer is.. I stopped in to ask and was given one plus I was introduced to the rep who would be there to supervise if you need it.. (you don't) If they don't have one or ask you to call a 1 800 # don't do business there.
The stucco bit scared me, instead I set stone on a brick ledge. With stucco the devil is in the flashing details and that's pretty easy to get wrong if you are a first time DIYer Besides there was/ still is a whole liability scare going on about stucco and a lot of stucco companies quietly have folded their tent.
The thing I like about ICF's is that windows go wherever you want them. Basically cut a hole build a buck and install it.. as to size, make the hole 1 &1/2 inches larger in every direction than the window rough opening is.. example RO 40x60 make the hole 43x63 and that will get tou what you want, bigger opening put temp braces in to ensure that the buck doesn't flex under the weight of the concrete..
The stucco finish is probably the easiest part of the process.
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There are a couple of different types of ICFs - the standard polystyrene forms and then the type of ICF that is more like a concrete block that incorporates some insulation. I tend to prefer the latter as they have more structural strength and fire resistance on their own than the polystyrene types.
There is a list of ICF manufacturers and contact information at:
http://oikos.com/green_products/category.php?category_id=242&name=Insulating%20Concrete%20Forms%20-%20ICF%20(07210)
Two of the "block" type ICFs that I have looked at are:
http://www.rastra.com/wi_ra.htm
http://www.faswall.com
There is also an organization for ICFs:
http://www.forms.org/
And the Portland Cement Association has some info on ICFs:
http://www.cement.org/homes/ch_bs_icf.asp
Some of the manufacturer's websites have extensive technical information. The Rastra web site has an extensive collection of technical details, but you need a CAD program that will handle .DWG, .DXF, or .WMF files to look at them.
I forgot to add to above list the Prescriptive Method for Insulating Concrete Forms in Residential Construction. It should tell you most of what you need to know about preparing for doors and windows and a lot of other things in typical residential construction. It is a large file, but a lot of information:http://www.huduser.org/publications/destech/icf_2ed.html