Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't find the answer to your Insulated Concrete Form (ICF)-related question below, simply send us an email and we will be glad to answer your query personally, and perhaps post it to share with others: anthony@formtechsys.com
What is the reversible Formtech ICF?
The Formtech ICF consists of two identical panels of fire retardant Expanded Polystyrene (EPS). Each Formtech panel is 48" long and 16" high with a thickness of 2 1/2 inches. The reversible EPS panels have embedded grippers, which are manufactured from injection-molded certified grade polypropylene. The reversible block is made by standing two panels, facing with grippers opposite and inserting cavity webs. These cavity webs are available in multiple widths, ranging from 2 1/2" to 20" depending on the application and type of structure.
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What is EPS (Expanded Polystyrene)?
EPS is constructed from millions of tiny air cells fused in manufacturing to form a rigid material. EPS contains no CFCs or HCFCs and has a zero ozone depletion rating. In fact, it is totally inert and considered one of the best insulating materials available.
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Where are Formtech ICFs manufactured?
Formtech EPS panels, corners and brickledge are manufactured by SCA North America, Packaging Division in several locations across the United States. The cavity webs are genuine WEBTEC components. These components are produced from high-quality materials to stringent engineering standards in leading-edge manufacturing facilities. The webs (ties) are manufactured by SciMould Inc. in Barrie, Ontario, Canada.
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How much do ICFs cost?
Formtech ICFs are competitively priced. Freight to the job site is additional. Please call us at 1-877-848-6155 for specific pricing and a referral to a dealer in your area.
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How will the homeowner save money?
The Formtech ICF is very affordable. It is competitive with conventional construction and in the long-term will save money due to reduced energy costs. Because of the enhanced R-factor it costs much less to heat and cool. An ICF home is wind and storm resistance and fire resistance, frequently reducing insurance costs.
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How do I purchase Formtech ICFs?
Contact Formtech International and we will refer you to the dealer nearest you. Please call us at 1-877-848-6155.
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Do you provide on-site service?
Yes, Formtech provides ongoing training and on-site technical support. Our experienced ICF trainers are available 24 hours a day ... worldwide. Tech help is just a phone call away.
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Is the Formtech ICF easy to use?
The Formtech ICF requires no special corner or intercepting wall forms, making it simple to use. Corners, T-sections, angles, curves and other special needs are all constructed from the basic panel. Formtech ICFs are lightweight and there is very little cleanup on the jobsite once the project is complete. Formtech provides ongoing training and on-site technical support helping the project run smoothly.
The reversible tread design and pre-molded corner makes constructing with the Formtech ICF a snap. The pre-molded corner block allows for easier assembly and the same block is used for both left and right corner applications.
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What kind of finishings can you use with Formtech ICFs?
All types of interior and exterior finishes are attached directly to the embedded strapping with non-corrosive, self-tapping screws. No vapor or air barrier is required. Formtech's new brick ledge panel provides a straight and solid base for exterior brick finishes.
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What are the advantages of building with Formtech ICFs?
There are many advantages to building with Formtech ICFs. Formtech is widely known for having one of the easiest to use ICF systems in the industry. Our reversible "one panel for every use" form eliminates confusion. Since there is no designated "top" or "bottom" to blocks, and corners can work for either right or left turns, there is less waste and increased savings. Additionally, our molded corner blocks are regarded as the strongest in the industry. Many builders like the fact that our blocks ship flat, reducing shipping costs significantly. Panels are packaged in heavy-duty bags that offer protection from the elements, and serve as a handy garbage bag for site cleanup.
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How does the cost compare to conventional construction?
The cost of Formtech ICF construction, in most cases, is comparable to conventional construction.
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Will there be energy savings?
Yes, there will be energy savings because of the enhanced R-factor (less to heat and cool). Some ICF manufacturers claim 70% savings. This depends on the design - windows are a big factor - to be safe - 50%.
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How will building with Formtech's ICFs affect the future value of my home?
A FORMTECH home is stronger, safer and virtually maintenance free. The appraisal value of your home will be more than a "stick" built home.
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How does the Formtech ICF affect the environment?
The FORMTECH ICF is an environmentally responsible product. It reduces reforestation, it is 100% recyclable and it also contains no CFCs and HCFCs.
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What size do the cavity webs come in?
Cavity webs are available in multiple widths. Sizes are 4", 6", 8", and 10". A special extension web allows for 12", 14", 16", 18", and 20". Custom widths are also available.
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What type of tools will I need to work with Formtech ICFs?
Simple construction tools are all you need when working with FORMTECH ICFs. These tools may include: a hammer, key-hole saw, hand saw, fiberglass tape with dispenser, wind lock with screws, pliers with tie-wire, foam gun, chalk-line, pruning shears, yankee twister with loop ties, sure-form rasp, cordless drill, level, tape measure, utility knife with extended blade, stringline, rebar cutter and bender, and a step ladder. You can also refer to our "Pro-Tip" installation guide on this website for more information.
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What method should be used to pour the concrete?
Concrete can be placed using any one of several methods; concrete pump, conveyer belt, crane and bucket or by a chute directly from the truck. A pump is the easiest method using a 4" reducer in the hose and double 90-degree elbows to reduce the concrete velocity.
Formtech provides a "Before you Pour" checklist. Ensure all items are noted. Formtech recommends a 5" - 6" concrete slump. However, engineering specifications or building codes may specify a different slump for a particular site.
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When you use the Formtech ICF, is waterproofing required below grade?
Yes, when using the FORMTECH ICF below grade an approved non-oil based waterproofing system should be used. A membrane type system is preferable in most applications.
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How do you run the electrical or plumbing?
You will need to cut your services access cavities before the pour. Just use a saw, utility knife or hot knife to cut through the blocks. Then place the service pipes (or sleeves) in the openings. The gaps should be foamed to prevent leakage. Once the pour is complete cavities for wiring and plumbing can be cut into the surface using a router, chainsaw, or hot knife. Place the services in chase and spray with seal foam. Make sure to observe all code requirements.
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What type of interior and exterior finishes can be used on the Formtech ICF?
FORMTECH ICF blocks can accept any type of interior or exterior finishes, including stucco. Finishes can be easily attached to the embedded strapping at 8" intervals with non-corrosive, self-tapping screws. No vapor or air barrier is required.
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Does Formtech have an ICC-ES report?
Yes, Formtech's ICC-ES Report is NO ESR-1521. See "Technical Data" tab, Code Approvals on this site.
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