How to Insulate Reinforced Concrete Foundations From High Temperature Tanks or Equipment

When you're planning your home or commercial building, one of the best things you can add is an insulating concrete form (ICF). An ICF is a set of premade, locking structures that within which to pour the foundation's concrete. The ICFs are made of different types of plastic foam or wood fiber, which save energy by protecting both the outside and inside of the house. According to toolbase.org, the ICFs "are lightweight and result in energy-efficient, durable construction.” They are perfect for both keeping in heat during cold winters and protecting equipment just outside of the building.

Insulating concrete form
Concrete
Rebar

Instructions

- 1
  Dig down in the earth to create a place for your foundation. This should be a done by a professional crew of workers and planned by a licensed architect or builder.
- 2
  Lay the ICF down first. The different pieces will lock together, somewhat like building blocks, forming the underlying structure of your foundation.
- 3
  Add steel reinforcement in selected locations. Steel rebar should be placed in several specialized locations to reinforce the structure and form a further nexus for the concrete pour.
- 4
  Pour concrete into the ICFs. Fill in the rest of the foundation with concrete also.
- 5
  Leave the ICFs in place. They should dry with the concrete and become an insulated portion of the structure that will protect inside and out.

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