Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 01, 1999 06:54am | #1

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   pros : concrete cures properly, insulation is done when the last cement truck leaves, you can do it your self (but may not want to),the forms are not very heavy,most systems have provisions for attaching sheet goods,CONS: you will have trouble convincing your concrete contractor that he will have to pour around the form not park and dump, if he has not used icf before , to wet of a mix will blow out the form,you will need more help to pour than normal,brace your forms better than the mfg. recomends, use {"super plast", on anything over 4' tall,... this is my .02 Did I miss anything?

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   Guest_ | Jul 01, 1999 06:55am | #2

   *This topic has been discussed a number of times here. I looked in the archives but the treads are no longer there. Guess it is time to do it again.Big issue with ICFs is insect infestation. Seems our six legged, narrow wasted subterainian friends like to nest in it. In your discussions with ICF vendors/manufacurers talk "termites." Find out what, if anything, they are doing to address this concern.Also, ICFs are a more expensive way to build. They are outside the standard 2"x4" stud, 4'x8' sheet driven building "system" so adaptations are required (house plans, building techniques, and materials). Plumbing and electrical in exterior walls are good examples of this.Conceptually, I like ICFs. I have looked at several ICF houses under construction and I was generally impressed with what I saw. I would be building today with ICFs if I felt comfortable about the "termite" thing.Steve Hansen

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   John_Beck | Jul 01, 1999 08:04am | #3

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   check out http://www.inslatingconcreteform.com its a good place to get icf questions answered.

3. 
   Guest_ | Jul 01, 1999 08:15am | #4

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   We have built several homes and buildings using ICF's. Fast, insulated,quiet, energy efficient.
   Cons. You can not pull a concrete wall straight when it is done, electricians and drywallers would rather work in a stick framed so charge more to sork in icfs, plumbing can be tricky.
   Check the web sites, Form tech is new and will be very cost competative and is trying to work around the cons better then most other icf manufacturers,

4. 
   D_T_Nivens | Jul 06, 1999 06:43pm | #5

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   I am building our house and thinking of using insulated concrete forms - what are the pros and cons?