Insulating Concrete Forms Manufacturers Association

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NRMCA 100 – Link to downloadable file

The NRMCA 100 provides a simplified approach to the design of concrete footings, foundation walls, and above-grade walls, both load bearing and non-load bearing, intended primarily for use in detached one- and two-family dwellings. This 2023 edition of the standard coordinates with the criteria of ASCE/SEI 7-16, Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures, and ACI 318-19, Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary. Follow the link to download your FREE copy off the NRMCA website here.

By |2024-06-19T15:21:29-05:00June 19, 2024|Design, Featured, Technical|
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How to Install and Flash Window and Door Openings in ICF Walls

Installers, if you’re working with Nudura Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) walls, you’ll know that all window and door openings require a robust 'buck' system to provide the proper connections and support. The Prebuck system is ideal for punched openings and is designed for direct contact with concrete, making it the perfect product to use with ICF. Keep reading to learn how to properly install and flash a window or door opening in ICFs with this bucking solution. What You'll Need: Prebuck Bucking System or equivalent ExoAir® 110AT: Self-adhered air and vapor membrane Dymonic®​ 100: A durable flexible sealant Rasp tool Low-expansion spray foam Continue reading more here.

By |2024-05-23T13:53:59-05:00June 14, 2024|Featured, ICF Projects, Technical|
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How Kentucky homeowners can stand up to tornadoes by building with ICFs

Many in Kentucky know first-hand the devastating power of tornadoes. Although the state has not always been part of tornado alley, you still experience tornadoes in Kentucky – and their consequences, like the December 2021 tornadoes that killed more than 50 people and damaged thousands of buildings and homes in the state.Extreme weather events like this are becoming more intense across North America, and so taking steps to protect your home and your loved ones is increasingly important. Building better One savvy means of protection from tornadoes is to build (or rebuild) using Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) or to create a safe room with this material.ICFs provide a steel-reinforced, solid concrete wall that’s sandwiched between two layers of expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation. This method of construction offers substantial improvements over traditional wood framing when it comes to disaster resilience.Here’s how ICF buildings stand up to the power of tornadoes. Continue reading full article here.

By |2024-05-23T13:50:58-05:00May 31, 2024|Featured, Technical|
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ICFs vs. CMU: 7 Frequently Asked Questions

Learn about the similarities and differences between Insulated Concrete Form and concrete block construction methods as it relates to strength, ease of installation, cost, energy-efficiency and design versatility with these ICF versus CMU FAQs. What is the difference between Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) and Concrete Masonry Units (CMUs)? Both ICFs and CMUs are used for building basement and above-grade structural walls in residential and commercial construction. ICF blocks have two layers of expanded polystyrene (EPS) connected by a web system that are filled with concrete and steel-reinforced to increase the durability and energy efficiency of the structure. Nudura ICFs are available in straight forms, corners, and curves for added design flexibility.CMU walls are built by stacking cinder blocks, reinforcing with steel and securing with mortar. This system is not as strong as an ICF assembly and requires additional materials to waterproof the building envelope and achieve adequate thermal performance. The standard rectangular CMUs also limit the building’s design capabilities. Which is stronger, ICFs or CMUs? Insulated Concrete Form walls are more durable than CMU walls. The continuous insulation on the interior and exterior of the assembly helps the inner concrete cure more effectively for a monolithic, nearly impenetrable concrete core. [...]

By |2024-05-23T13:48:41-05:00May 24, 2024|Featured, Technical|
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How To Ensure Robust Cellular Reception in ICF Homes

In an increasingly connected world, ensuring seamless cellular connectivity in buildings is very desirable. Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) homes, renowned for their energy efficiency and structural robustness, can sometimes pose challenges to cellular signal penetration due to their concrete walls. Luckily, there are quick and easy solutions. Why Can ICF Walls Interfere with Cellular Signals? The core issue stems from the concrete cores in the walls. The concrete core in the walls can significantly attenuate cellular signals, leading to poor reception or ‘dead zones’ within the building. How to Boost Cell Signal in ICF Homes and Buildings? Cellular signal boosters are devices designed to capture, amplify, and redistribute cellular signals within a building, effectively overcoming the attenuation caused by the building materials. By installing a cellular signal booster, you can ensure that the occupants enjoy robust cellular connectivity, irrespective of the building material impediments.   Logix ICF Multi-Family Build Tips for Improving Cell Signal in ICF Buildings Choose the Right Signal Booster: Select a booster compatible with the frequency bands used by the cellular service providers in the area. Strategic Installation: Install the external antenna of the booster in a location with good signal strength, typically on the roof or high on [...]

By |2024-03-06T09:03:32-06:00March 6, 2024|ICF Projects, Technical|
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