PROGRAM
Q: What are Insulating Concrete Forms?
A: Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) are hollow blocks or panels made of plastic foam that construction crews stack into the shape of the exterior walls of a home. Workers then add reinforcing steel and fill the gap (typically 2-6 inches) between the two layers of foam with concrete. This combination of concrete, steel, and foam creates a very strong and energy-efficient structure.

Q: How many different ICF systems are available in Canada?
A: Currently there are approximately 50 different ICF manufacturers in North America, with about 24 systems in Canada.

Q: Who are they and how can one contact them?
A: The ICFA (www.forms.org) membership list will identify the majority of established ICF systems in North America. It should be noted that some systems are not members of the ICFA. A list of Canadian sources is available from Cement Association offices across Canada (www.insulatingconcreteforms.ca).

Q: What are the differences among these systems?
A: The majority of these systems have some degree of similarity in design. Systems can be in the form of panels or blocks, depending upon the manufacturer. From there the level of customer service, technical support, and promotional support will also vary.

Q: Are there conformance standards that govern these systems?
A: Although the ICF building system is not currently governed by any federal conformance standard, systems for use in Canada are required to undergo product approval from CCMC. Without CCMC approval ICF systems are still able to obtain building permit subject to local municipal conformance via submission of appropriate technical engineering certification by project.

ICF SYSTEMS:
Q: Is there skilled labour readily available who are familiar with ICF construction?
A: ICF system manufacturers currently provide training for their respective system. Manufacturer tends to train their builder and his crew initially. Both framers and formers have the basic skill set to build with ICF. A formal ICF training program is now available and is being adopted by trade organizations.

Q: What is the present market share of ICF above-grade construction for residential?
A: ICF construction currently represents about 3% of the single family housing market. Of which above grade wall construction represents about 1.5% of this market. An estimated growth of almost 40% year over year in North America.

Q: What is anticipated market trend for ICF residential construction?
A: Forecasts project continued growth to an estimated 5% market share of total single-family starts in Canada by 2004. An industry survey has indicated that demand for ICF will continue to grow strongly as a residential building alternative.

Q: Does it cost more to build this way?
A: Typically, a home built with ICFs will cost 3% to 5% more than a comparable wood-framed home. However, much or all of this up-front cost can be recouped through lower utility bills and downsizing of heating and cooling equipment. Builders who are experienced with ICF indicate that the cost of construction with ICF will quickly narrow to the equivalent of wood frame construction when built to the same standards.

Q: Is this a difficult system for a builder to learn?
A: Conventional framing or forming homebuilding crews adapt easily to ICF construction. Most of the work involved draws on standard carpentry skills and tools – true, level and plumb. The foam forms are lightweight resulting in lighter work for the crew. The lightweight of this wall material means a potential reduction in health and safety issues associated with heavy lifting. Unskilled crews can be hired to stack the forms to create the walls – under close supervision. It simply means a slightly different set of issues.

TECHNICAL CONFORMANCE:
Q: Are ICF Systems in conformance with the National Building Code?
A: A submission has been made to include it to the Code but this will only be implemented in 2003, if approved. At the moment, approval of ICF construction is governed by submission of certified engineering specs and/or CCMC approval. Check with your local municipality for local requirement.

Q: How can a builder verify the authenticity of the ICF manufacturer and product?
A: The best way is to check with the ICFA and ICFO for membership enrollment and/or detail and certified engineering (product) specifications.

Q: What is the impact on the builder’s ability to obtain a building permit?
A: The ability to obtain a building permit is impacted by local municipality requirements. Check with your local municipal office and ICF manufacturer for needed details.