Advantage ICF System^®

Yes. A growing part of our business is above grade or whole building applications where building owners have recognized the advantages of energy efficient construction for their whole building.

Concrete with a 100 -150 mm (4" - 6") slump to provide a minimum 20 MPa (2900 psi) concrete strength reinforced as per design requirements.

Installation of the Advantage ICF System should occur under the direct supervision of either: 1) An experienced ICF installer (complete with references), 2) A journeyman carpenter (complete with a valid carpenter’s ticket) 3) A trained professional in the concrete industry (complete with references) 4) An Advantage ICF System trained installer. Contractors with knowledge in framing and concrete applications are the preferred installers. Building construction experience is a prerequisite.

The Advantage ICF System incorporates EPS insulation, a rigid foam plastic insulation that contains only air within its cellular structure. EPS insulation is inert to a wide range of chemicals and does not contain any CFC’s or HCFC’s.

EPS insulation has been manufactured and processed for decades. The product is made with the same EPS foam as coffee cups. So no, it is not harmful.

Typically, the Advantage ICF System can be cut to provide any shape as long as the structural supports for any projections or bays are designed accordingly.

Plasti-Fab maintains an inventory of Advantage ICF System block. However, in order to ensure prompt delivery to your location we recommend you allow a minimum of 2 weeks notice for delivery in your construction schedule to ensure prompt delivery. If you will be building during the busy summer construction season, additional time should be allowed.

EPS insulation does not provide any nutrient value for insects or animals. However, some kinds of insects and rodents also appreciate the thermal insulation provided by EPS insulation for their nesting places. An effective way to prevent burrowing insects or rodents from penetrating into the foam is to coat vulnerable surfaces with a parging from the top of the foundation wall above grade to 200 to 300 mm (6"-12") below finish grade.

Many types of damp proofing products are suitable for use with the Advantage from traditional spray ones (cut-back asphalt) to the various types of wraps. We recommend the dimpled type of membranes as they provide both damp proofing and drainage. Ask for our technical bulletin on damp proofing and waterproofing for additional information.

Conventional stuccos are applied by attaching wire straight to our ties with pan-head screws. Acrylic stucco manufacturers may require only typical foam preparation and then application directly onto the surface with no stucco wire.

Horizontal joints: strapping between the Advantage web connectors using metal banding may be required if siding joints line up with the Advantage ICF block joints. J trim: bucks may have to be modified to allow for certain types. Corners: strapping around corners with metal banding may be necessary for certain corner moldings.

Standard electrical boxes which are 76 mm (3") deep can be cut into the EPS insulation panels leaving 10 mm (3/8”) extended beyond the face of EPS panels to accommodate the interior 13 mm (½”) thick gypsum board. Grooving for wires can be done with electrical chain saws.

The Advantage ICF System is typically used for construction of exterior walls of a building. Plumbing is rarely placed in exterior walls, however, if necessary this is done by grooving out the foam as required.

Floors can be set on top of the concrete walls, cast in joist or hung off a ledger. The Advantage ICF System installation manual provides typical connection details. However, other structural details may be accommodated. Window Bucks Window and door openings are easily incorporated into the Advantage System.

A door or window can easily be incorporated with the Advantage ICF System leaving architecturally pleasing deep wall thicknesses, window seats, ledges, etc.

The Advantage ICF System is competitively priced with stick framed buildings, however, reduced energy use, lower insurance, lower maintenance costs and enhanced resale price may provide additional long-term construction/ownership values.

Advantage ICF System is sold through building supply dealers and will deliver to job sites (haul rates may apply).

We have trained installation experts available for on-site assistance or you can contact one of our Advantage Product Experts. Contact us Today.

The Advantage ICF System can be used to form 152 mm or 203 mm (6" or 8”) thick reinforced concrete walls. Maximum wall heights will depend upon specific requirements of your application such as backfill height and type of soil conditions for below grade walls or wind loads for above grade walls. Consult your Advantage ICF System representative for wall heights that may require specific engineering design input.