STRUCTURE FAQ's
WHAT KIND OF FOUNDATIONS CAN BE USED WITH ICF?
Any type of foundation (Stem-wall, monolithic, off-grade, piling, hollow core, etc.) can be used with ICF walls. The only requirement is that rebar must extend out of the slab or footer to connect the ICF wall to the foundation.
CAN I BUILD AN ICF ADDITION TO MY HOME?
Yes, as long as the area is accessible. An ICF addition can be used as a safe room in the event of a storm.
WHAT KIND OF SIDING CAN BE USED ON ICF SYSTEMS?
Virtually any exterior finish can be used with an ICF System. In fact, stucco is much more cost effective to apply over an ICF wall because the foam is already in place.
It is important to note that stucco when applied over wood in a conventional wood framed home can lead to wood rot and mold. In an ICF wall there is no wood to rot or warm dark wall cavity to grow mold!
DO ICF WALLS SWEAT?
No they do not. EPS (expanded polystyrene) is a poor conductor of heat and cold. Therefore, water vapor that may be present in the structure will not condense on the walls. The EPS is open cell and repels liquid water but allows water vapor to pass through which allows the building to breath. It works very similar to GORTEX.
WILL MOLD GROW ON ICF WALLS?
No. ICF forms are made of expanded polystyrene, which is inorganic. It is not a food source and therefore will not support the growth of mold.