Insulated Concrete Forms

[lgoolsby]

I am planning to build a house using the Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF). The building inspector is unfamiliar with this and is thus being very difficult. The plan code for MI says that if the wall dimensions are more than 40' or 60' the plans may need the sign or seal of the architect or engineer. I had the plans re-drawn by the ICF company architects. Now he wants a MI engineer to approve and seal the documents. Of course these walls are just like any other poured concrete, the forms just stay in place. HELP. Any advice or suggestions?

 

[RDK]

You can argue with the inspector however arguing with an inspector is like wrestling with a pig in the mud. You cannot win and sooner or later you will realize that the pig is enjoying it.

The simplest way is to get a stamp on the drawing. It can only cost a couple hundred $ and the issue will be settled.

You could try going over the inspector’s head on this issue but remember he will be inspecting the rest of the house.

Look also at thread765-60811 for some more discussion on municipal building inspectors.


Rick Kitson MBA P.Eng

Construction Project Management
From conception to completion

http://www.kitsonengineering.com

 

[rater57]

the international residential code has a large section of details regarding the 3 main insulated concrete form types. if you can show that your drawings contain all the minimums and more from the code, you should be fine. just don't stick it in the inspectors face - approach it as a duo learning experience. as an inspector in the far north, i see this building technique all the time and have no problem with it. good luck.