What is ICF?

Insulated Concrete Formwork is an advanced Modern Method of Construction. Insulated Concrete Formwork uses expanded polystyrene panels to form multi-storey wall structures for use in all sectors of the construction industry; residential, commercial, industrial and institutional. Once the panels are laid they form a rectangular space into which concrete is poured. The concrete ensures the structural strength of the wall while the KORE panels remain permanently in place as thermal insulation for the life of the building.

Can the KORE System be used below grade?

Yes, the structural strength of the KORE System makes it ideal for application below grade walls as well as retaining walls. The system is installed exactly as per above grade walls with the addition of a waterproof membrane on the outer side of the wall.

How are Windows and Doors Installed?

Windows and doors are installed in exactly the same manner as they would be in a block or timber frame building. There are two fixing points fused into the KORE Stops to secure the insertion of the window and doors.

Who Builds a KORE Building?

Only fully trained KORE Installers may build a KORE Building. At KORE we run a comprehensive installers training programme and only persons that have successfully completed this programme will have the authority to construct a KORE Building. To guarantee the highest standards all KORE installers undergo regular quality inspections by both KORE personnel and other qualified industry professionals.

How are services accommodated in a KORE Building?

Prior to the concrete pour all ducts and piping that need to penetrate the external wall need to be installed. A keyhole saw or a hot knife will easily cut the KORE Panels. Electrical boxes and wiring chases are grooved out of the finished wall using a hot knife. Only the polystyrene is chased, not the concrete.

How are the external walls finished?

There is one simple answer to this question; whatever way you want it finished. There are no limitations to the finish you can have on a KORE ICF building. Acrylic based render can be applied directly to onto the KORE Panels, as can slip bricks. Brick, block and stone work can be fixed using wall ties that are screwed directly onto the KORE wall via the KORE Insert

How are the internal walls finished?

Plasterboard is fixed directly onto the internal surface of the KORE Wall. The unique design and positioning of the KORE Insert provides a fixing point at exactly the correct dimensions for fixing the plasterboard sheets.

What internal wall options are available?

The KORE System will accommodate any internal wall options: precast concrete internal walls, block walls and timber studded walls. We recommend that where possible internal walls should take a concrete form to maximise thermal mass within the building.

What flooring systems can be used with the KORE System?

The KORE System will accommodate both timber and precast concrete flooring system. The KORE Installer will leave the top of the wall finished so that the chosen system can be installed easily by other trades persons.

Can I achieve an 'A' rated building with the KORE System?

An 'A' rated building can easily be achieved with the KORE System. However it is important to remember that the walls of the building only form a component part of the building as a whole. You must also give great attention to the following areas; windows and doors, ventilation, solar gains, roof structure, orientation and renewable energy.

Does an ICF Wall require a cavity?

No, the unique synergy between the polystyrene and the concrete creates an impermeable wall structure.

My Architect is not familiar with ICF, what happens now?

Our highly trained technical team will be on hand throughout the entire process to assist and guide your architect. For a standard house building a 150mm concrete core is recommended, together with the KORE Panels the entire wall width is 300mm. This will coincide with the wall width as drawn by your architect. Your plans will not have to be redrawn to accommodate the KORE System. Now that’s good news! Your Architect can log onto our technical pages for full section drawings.