ICF Mexico

Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) are formwork for concrete that stays in place as permanent building insulation for energy-efficient, cast-in-place, reinforced concrete walls, floors, and roofs. The forms are interlocking modular units that are dry-stacked (without mortar) and filled with concrete. The forms lock together somewhat like Lego bricks and serve to create a form for the structural walls of a building. Concrete is pumped into the cavity to form the structural element of the walls. Usually reinforcing steel (rebar) is added before concrete placement to give the resulting walls flexural strength, similar to bridges and high-rise buildings made of concrete (see Reinforced concrete). The forms are filled with concrete in 1-4 foot “lifts” to reduce the risk of blowouts like with other concrete formwork. After the concrete has cured, or firmed up, the forms are left in place permanently for the following reasons:

• Thermal and acoustic insulation
• Space to run electrical conduit and plumbing. The foam on either side of the forms can easily accommodate electrical and plumbing installations.
• Backing for gypsum boards on the interior and stucco, brick, or other siding on the exterior

The majority of forms are made of foam insulation, such as expanded polystyrene (EPS), and are either separate panels connected with plastic connectors or ties; or pre-formed interlocking blocks connected with plastic or steel connectors or ties. Most forms have vertically oriented furring strips built into the forms on 6”, 8”, or 12” centers which are used to secure interior and exterior finishes.
Insulating Concrete Forms are the future of the building industry. Popular for both residential and commercial ICF construction, ICFs create homes and businesses that are energy-efficient, fire-resistant, sound-proof, and durable. Properly constructed, they are tornado and hurricane-proof, and stand up to earthquake, fire, and other natural disasters equally well. Many homes conserve energy so well that heating and cooling costs are reduced by 50-70 percent.