Insulating Concrete Formwork (ICF) System

Longer Lifespan, Low Energy, Sustainable

CC House Builders Insulating Concrete Formwork (ICF) system has a longer lifespan than traditional construction. With optional reinforced concrete foundations that can include crystalline admixture for waterproofing. Combined with the low levels of energy required to run this type of structure we provide one of the most sustainable modern methods of construction available today.

High-strength recycled plastic ties are used to construct the building shell and hold the Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) forms together. (The forms are HCFC and CFC free with a 200mm core). EPS is a natural by-product of the oil refining process. When it is used as insulation, it will offset its own CO2 footprint many times over during the building’s lifetime by reducing heating requirements. The EPS forms act as permanent shuttering and protect the concrete core from extremes of temperature. As it is poured in situ the concrete has few joints thus providing a very airtight form of construction. Preventing air leakage is a key requirement of low or passive energy design and this does the job really well. Here again, the crystalline admixture and an optional steel wire fibre reinforcement can be used.

Extensive Flexibility in Design

Internal blockwork walls are built specifically for load carrying and “I” beam steel is used for stairways. Precast concrete floor slabs assist the speed of construction by being craned into position. They provide superior lateral and perpendicular strength, as well as offering outstanding sound insulation. From ground level upwards, narrower forms are used to continue up to roof level. This EPS has a 150mm core and is also HCFC and CFC free. The simplicity of construction offers the architect extensive flexibility in design. Openings are easily created by simply building and cutting the EPS forms to suit. Treated timber and steel reinforcement above (creates in situ lintels) is used to close the opening sides. This doubles up as a suitable fixing point for windows and doors. Furthermore, Polythene Damp Proof (DPM) is a tensile strength solution to prevent damp from working its way into your building structure.

Strong with Reduced Build Times

CC House Builders offer the strongest Insulating Concrete Formwork (ICF) system on the market today. Reducing build times without compromising the high levels of thermal and acoustic insulation. Timber wall plates are also used as fixing for trusses. All timber used in construction can be sourced from managed and renewable sources and where necessary is easily fixed to the concrete structure by simply removing the required area of EPS. Inserting the timber and bolting it directly to the concrete face a suspended timber floor can then easily be formed. The CC House Builders system imposes no limitation on roof design. You can use traditional truss construction or warm roof Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are both popular. SIPs panels are quick to install, open the roof space, and can provide high levels of insulation.

There is also total freedom of choice when selecting windows and doors for low or passive energy designs. Triple glazed gas-filled units are a popular choice and when combined with high levels of roof insulation any level of the code for sustainable homes can be complied with. CC House Builders ICF is then finished internally with plasterboard and externally clad with masonry timber or render using a through colour coat polymer system with reinforcing mesh.