Insulating Concrete Forms Manufacturers Association

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19 06, 2024

NRMCA 100 – Link to downloadable file

By |2024-06-19T15:21:29-05:00June 19, 2024|Design, Featured, Technical|

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.

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14 06, 2024

How to Install and Flash Window and Door Openings in ICF Walls

By |2024-05-23T13:53:59-05:00June 14, 2024|Featured, ICF Projects, Technical|

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.

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31 05, 2024

How Kentucky homeowners can stand up to tornadoes by building with ICFs

By |2024-05-23T13:50:58-05:00May 31, 2024|Featured, Technical|

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.

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27 05, 2024

Do Building Codes Require ICF Installers To Be Certified? The Answer is NO and Here’s Why.

By |2024-05-27T15:19:56-05:00May 27, 2024|Miscellaneous|

Hello, builders, contractors and building officials! In some municipalities there is some question as to if an ICF installer requires a certification (sometimes referred to as a Wallet Card). Well, here’s some good news: according to the key standards for ICFs like ASTM E2634, CAN-ULC 717.1, and even the national building codes, there's no requirement for ICF installers to be certified. That’s right – whether you're working under the guidelines of the IBC for commercial buildings or the NBC and IRC for residential projects, having a certificate in your pocket isn’t required. Let’s explore why this is the case and what it means for your day-to-day work. The Lowdown on ICF Standards and Building Codes First things first, the formal regulations – the prevailing standards that govern ICF construction, and the engineering specs derived under PCA 100, don’t require or even reference certified ICF installers. Even in situations where the IBC calls for special inspections, it’s not exclusive to ICF projects, and these inspections can be carried out by anyone deemed competent, certification or not. Why the Lack of Certification Requirement Makes Sense Keeping Costs in Check Mandatory certifications can drive up expenses and limit the pool of available skilled [...]

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27 05, 2024

Navigating Hot Weather Concreting Challenges with ICFs

By |2024-05-27T15:19:34-05:00May 27, 2024|Technical|

High temperatures can accelerate the setting time of concrete, potentially compromising its quality. Below, we outline key considerations and strategies to ensure the integrity of your ICF projects during hot conditions. Understanding Hot Weather Concreting The primary challenge with hot weather concreting is the rapid hydration of cement due to high ambient temperatures, which can cause premature setting and reduce the concrete's compressive strength. Additionally, this fast setting may lead to cold joints, where successive pours fail to integrate properly, weakening the overall structure. To manage these challenges, it's crucial to prepare for ambient temperatures exceeding 80°F, particularly in areas with low humidity. Crew working quickly to pour concrete on a hot day Pre-Pour Strategies for ICF Projects Before the concrete arrives, consider the following tips to manage the heat: Cooling the Mix: Request that your concrete provider adds ice to the mix to slow the hydration process, maintaining a manageable setting time even on the hottest days. Using Admixtures: Admixtures can adjust the setting time, counteracting the heat's acceleration effect. Timing the Delivery: Ensure the concrete is delivered precisely when needed to avoid prolonged exposure to heat in the mixer truck. On-Site Adjustments During the Pour Once [...]

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