Amvic Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) systems integrate structural support with thermal and environmental performance through a 5-in-1 stay-in-place forming system that combines structure, insulation, an air/vapor barrier, and finish attachment into a single construction step.
Structural Integration
The structural strength of Amvic ICF is based on a monolithic reinforced concrete core formed by pouring concrete into expanded polystyrene (EPS) blocks.
- Reinforcement: Vertical and horizontal rebar is placed within the concrete cavity and supported by patented rebar holders integrated into the internal webs. These webs are made from 100% recycled polypropylene and are precisely spaced to manage concrete pressure during the pour.
- Connectivity: A continuous load path is achieved from footing to roof using vertical dowels, the Simpson Strong-Tie ICFVL ledger system for floor connections, and anchor bolts at the top of the wall to secure roof trusses.
- Resilience: The combined concrete and steel system delivers superior resistance to wind, fire, seismic forces, and impact compared to conventional wood-frame construction.
Thermal Performance
Amvic ICFs provide high thermal efficiency through continuous dual layers of insulation that surround the concrete core.
- R-Values and Airtightness: Standard R22 blocks and high-performance R30 blocks (with approximately 30% thicker EPS) significantly reduce thermal bridging. The FormLock™ interlock system creates tight block connections that limit air infiltration.
- Thermal Mass: The concrete core acts as thermal mass, stabilizing interior temperatures and reducing heating and cooling demand.
- Openings: Window and door openings use the AmBuck™ Insulated Block-Out System, which maintains continuous insulation and eliminates thermal bridging commonly found with wood bucks.
Environmental and Sustainable Performance
Amvic ICF systems are designed with sustainability in mind, from material sourcing to on-site construction efficiency.
- Recycled Materials: More than 60% of the block weight comes from recycled materials, including 100% post-industrial recycled polypropylene used in the internal webs.
- Waste and Emissions: Construction waste can be as low as 1%. EPS manufacturing relies only on steam and cold water, with no use of CFCs, HFCs, or formaldehyde.
- Certifications: Energy efficiency and material composition allow Amvic ICF systems to contribute approximately 32–35 LEED® points.
A Simple Way to Understand Amvic ICF
Amvic ICF can be compared to a high-performance thermos for a building. Just as a thermos uses a rigid shell and continuous insulation to maintain temperature, Amvic ICF forms permanently contain the concrete structure while wrapping the entire building in a seamless thermal envelope.