Monolith Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF)
FAQ
Popular Questions
What is ICF?
- Water Absorption: Traditional polystyrene-based ICF can absorb moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth, structural degradation, and insulation inefficiency.
- Pest Vulnerability: Expanded polystyrene can attract termites, rodents, and other pests, compromising the integrity of the structure.
- Fire Safety Concerns: Traditional ICF materials often require additional fire-resistant barriers to meet safety standards, as the EPS foam itself is flammable.
- Blowouts During Concrete Pours: The weaker material and design of traditional ICF can lead to blowouts, causing delays and increased construction costs.
- Thermal Performance Limitations: Lower R-value ratings (typically R-22) mean less energy efficiency compared to advanced materials like polyurethane.
- Handling and Installation Challenges: EPS is prone to damage during transportation and installation, requiring extra care and often leading to material wastage.
Water Absorption: Traditional polystyrene-based ICF can absorb moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth, structural degradation, and insulation inefficiency.
Pest Vulnerability: Expanded polystyrene attracts termites, rodents, and other pests.
Fire Safety Concerns: Requires additional fire-resistant barriers as EPS foam is flammable.
Blowouts During Concrete Pours: Weak materials and design can lead to blowouts, increasing costs and delays.
Thermal Performance Limitations: Typically lower R-values (~R-22) result in less energy efficiency.
Handling and Installation Challenges: EPS can be easily damaged during transport and installation, leading to wastage.
Our Product: Polyurethane ICF
Monolith ICF integrates seven critical functions into one streamlined system:
Structure: Combines polyurethane and concrete for superior durability
Insulation: R-33 thermal performance minimizes heating and cooling costs.
Vapor Barrier: Tight interlocking structure improves water and pest resistance
Fire Resistance: Class 1/A fire-rated foam and concrete provide 4+ hour flame resistance
Air Barrier: Creates a seamless, airtight seal for energy efficiency
Soundproofing: Superior noise reduction with an STC rating of 55+
Finish-Ready Surface: Directly attach sheetrock without fur-outs
| Feature | Stick-Frame | CMU | Traditional ICF | Monolith ICF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Wood | Concrete Blocks | Expanded Polystyrene | Closed-Cell Polyurethane |
| Strength | Low | Moderate | Standard | 1.8x Greater |
| Insulation (R-Value) | R-13 to R-19 | R-2 to R-3 | R-22 | R-33 |
| Moisture Resistance | Susceptible | Requires Sealants | Absorbs Moisture | Zero Water Absorption |
| Fire Resistance | Combustible | Moderate | Limited Protection | Class A, 3+ Hours |
| Soundproofing (STC) | 30-35 | 40-45 | 45-50 | 55+ |
| Durability | Low | Moderate | Moderate | Superior Longevity |
| Ease of Installation | Moderate | Labor Intensive | Simplified | Most Simplified |
Straight 8” Block: 48″ x 12″ x 13″ (4 ft² wall coverage area)
- Straight 6” Block: 48″ x 12″ x 13″ (4 ft² wall coverage area)
90° Corner 8” Block: [32+24]” x 12″ x 13″ (5.6 ft² wall coverage area)
The blocks are manufactured using two 2.5″ (63.5mm) closed-cell polyurethane panels connected by polypropylene webs placed at 6″ (152mm) on center.
Building with Monolith
Installation follows these basic steps:
- Measure and prepare the foundation
- Lay the first course of ICF blocks, level carefully
- Install the second course in a running bond pattern
- Install bucking for windows and doors
- Stack additional courses to the desired height
- Install bracing to ensure walls remain straight and plumb
- Place rebar according to structural requirements
- Pour concrete in 3-4′ lifts, using a pencil vibrator to remove air pockets
- Install mud sill and anchor bolts for connecting the roof structure
Essential tools include:
- Hand saw, power saw, keyhole saw
- Tape measure
- Cordless drill and bits
- Hammer drill
- Rebar tie tools
- Levels (2′ and 6′)
- Laser or transit level
- Plumb bob
- Mason’s line and chalk line
- Foam gun
- Wall alignment and bracing system
You’ll need:
- Reinforcing steel (rebar) and accessories
- Screws for bracing attachment
- Materials for rough openings (lumber/plywood)
- Anchor bolts or ledger connector systems
- PVC sleeves for utilities
- Low-expansion polyurethane spray foam
- Waterproofing and drainage membrane
Concrete is typically poured using a boom pump in layers approximately 3-4′ at a time, circling the structure until reaching the top of the wall. A mechanical pencil vibrator (1″ maximum head size) is used to vibrate the concrete and remove air pockets.
Utilities can be installed by:
- Using an electric chain saw to create cutouts for electrical boxes
- Creating channels for electrical wiring and plumbing
- Using foam dispensing guns to seal around penetrations
- Installing PVC sleeves for mechanical and electrical fixtures
Yes. Monolith ICF is engineered to perform in a variety of weather conditions, including extreme cold and heat. Its closed-cell polyurethane structure prevents water absorption and provides consistent insulation, making it suitable for year-round construction.
On-site installation support.
Detailed technical documentation.
Training programs for crews and contractors.
A skilled team can stack and pour walls for a 1,000 sq. ft. structure in as little as one day.
How to Get Started with Monolith
Contact our Senior Account Managers for consultations, pricing, and delivery coordination.