Is a special concrete mix used?
With ICFs now commonly used in most areas, the local Ready-Mixed Concrete producer will probably have an “ICF Mix” pre-designed and available. The information that the supplier needs is: 1) The specified compressive strength from the building plan; 2) A maximum 6″ [150mm] slump (between 5″ and 6″ preferred); 3) The need for highly “flowable” concrete (e.g. with super plasticizer); 4) Aggregate Size of 3/8″ [10mm] or 3/4″ [20mm] (for walls 8″ thick or more) and 5) What type of placement equipment is being used (concrete pump, conveyor, etc). The concrete supplier will determine what mix of locally available materials will give you the best performance. • Do the walls need to be vibrated? Use proper placement and consolidation techniques, including rodding by hand or using a mechanical vibrator with a small diameter (maximum 1¼” [32mm]). Do not over-vibrate. • How are doors and windows installed? A wooden or vinyl frame (or “buck”) is built to the specified size of the window or door rou
