force 5 professionals faq

  1. How soon after placing the concrete can we backfill or put floor/roof systems onto ICF walls?
  2. What type of concrete consolidation does Force 5 recommend?
  3. What method should be used to pour the concrete?
  4. Is a special concrete mix used for ICF?
  5. Can the concrete in ICF forms be mechanically vibrated?
  6. Can I construct radius and angled walls using ICF?

How soon after placing the concrete can we backfill or put floor/roof systems onto ICF walls?

You should wait a minimum of seven days and follow guidelines set by your structural engineer.

What type of concrete consolidation does Force 5 recommend?

Consolidation with an electric vibrator with a 1-inch head and a 12-14 foot shaft is ideal.

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 boom pump is far and away the easiest method using a 3" or 2.5" reducer in the hose to reduce the concrete velocity.

Is a special concrete mix used for ICF?

Generally walls will require 3000 psi concrete or as specified by your engineer or code. Maximum aggregate size is 3/4" and placed at a 5-6" slump.

Can the concrete in ICF forms be mechanically vibrated?

Yes. Amvic ICFs are one of few forms on the market that are engineered to withstand the internal vibration. In fact, this practice is strongly recommended by Amvic.

Can I construct radius and angled walls using ICF?

Yes. Amvic offers 3 standard radius forms and custom radius forms can also be ordered. Any angle that is required can be made by miter cutting the form at the proper angle and using foam to join the edges.