August 1, 2022

ICF foundations are used as bases for steel frame structures, or concrete columns and beams to support habitable floor slabs above. ICF foundations also provide a significant load-bearing service, both vertically and laterally, in structures such as retaining walls, bridges and other similar applications.

 

ICF Foundation’s Operation

The ICF foundation is constructed using concrete, and is composed of a series of layers that are progressively larger, with each successive layer being made of multiple courses. The ICF foundation is often constructed as a continuous layer of blocks, which are then stacked and bonded together with an adhesive.

The blocks in the foundation are generally made of cement based materials, along with some types of fillers, such as gravel and crushed stone. These wet mixtures are then placed into a hopper where they are cast into forms that allow for the most effective distribution of the concrete mix. The final mix is then placed into forms or tubs that allow for a controlled density to be achieved in the finished foundation. Additionally, it may sometimes be necessary to reinforce certain layers or zones within the structure by adding other layers of concrete in addition to those from which the structure is made.

The most common methods of construction for ICF foundations include either the strip footings technique or the segmental method. In both methods, the forms or tubs are constructed on site and the concrete is cast into them.

 

Benefits of ICF Foundation

1. Increased Structural Capacity

The high compressive strength of ICF makes it possible to build reinforced concrete walls, bridges and other structures without the need for steel reinforcement. The only requirement is that the structural concrete must be poured around the ICF forms.

 

2. Moisture Protection

ICF foundation walls are impermeable to water, making them the ideal choice for applications such as retaining walls or low floor structures that require drainage below ground level. Moisture will not get through either during or after construction and will never cause damage to or rot the wooden wall beams, steel frame, beams or columns underneath.

 

3. Reduced Maintenance Costs

ICF foundations are very easy to transport, install and replace compared to concrete foundations. This makes them ideal for water drainage and flood control projects. Dead load of the foundation wall is transmitted directly through the ICF floor beams and columns to the ground below, while live load can be carried easily by steel beam posts or concrete columns once they are positioned in-place.

 

4. Fire Resistant

ICF foundations are insulated from the ground and all other elements, making them very difficult to ignite. ICF is also resistant to fire once it is ignited and will not cause further damage to adjacent structures, making it a perfect choice for fire-proofing projects.

 

5. Greater Design Flexibility

ICF foundation walls can be made thinner than conventional concrete walls, which makes it possible to construct higher ceilings in a building without the need for steel reinforced concrete beams. This is even more important in dry areas where high humidity levels can cause problems with conventional foundations, but ICF foundations don’t have these problems.

 

Conclusion

ICFs are made from cement, therefore do not rot and are fire resistant. These foundations are commonly used in rainy areas because they prevent the infrastructure from being damaged by water. They also help to protect against fires, pests and insects because of their solid construction. The best thing about them is that they have a long lifespan and can last up to 50 years without the need for repairs or maintenance.