If you’ve chosen ICF as the construction material for your foundation you might now be wondering how to find an installer capable of erecting ICFs with quality and efficiency.
Well, we have some good news for you. First things first, your local Logix ICF® dealer will usually be able to recommend reputable companies who have worked on ICF projects in the area.
Alternatively, you can use Logix ICF®’s tool to find ICF-experienced contractors in the area by yourself.
Secondly, ICF construction is straightforward, so most construction crews without previous ICF experience are able to master ICF installation techniques, as long as they receive adequate ICF training and technical support.
In the post below, we will walk you through the best ways to find an ICF-experience contractor, or get an installer who’s never worked with ICFs up-to-speed for your project.
Can You Do The ICF Foundation Installation Yourself?
This is a question many people have and is the first question you need to answer.
In most cases, it’s advisable to use an experienced ICF installer to build your ICF foundation.
We’d urge you to not attempt installing an ICF foundation on your own unless:
- You have basic carpentry skills.
- You’ve successfully built a structure before
- Your ICF foundation has a straightforward, uncomplicated design.
If you cannot agree with the three statements above, it would be best to find a qualified ICF installer for your project.
How to Find an Experienced ICF Installer
Logix ICF® offers two handy resources you can use to find a skilled ICF installer for your project:
- Logix ICF dealer directory: You can use this search function to find a Logix ICF® dealer near you. A Logix deal can offer invaluable advice for your ICF project, including a list of reputable local installers. This is your best option for finding a skilled installer crew if you’re working on your first ICF project.
- Logix ICF® Pro-Link: Use the Pro-Link search feature to locate experienced ICF installers in a desired area by yourself. This option gives you access to a database of ICF experienced installers.
How to Choose the Best Installer For Your ICF Project
Having access to a list of ICF installers is a great first step, but you’ll need to do a bit of homework to choose the most suitable professional for your project.
A Logix dealer’s recommendation is certainly helpful, but it’s your responsibility to vet each of the prospective contractors before handing them the contract. Below is a checklist you should follow when selecting the most suitable installer for your ICF building:
- Check references: Get at least three references from previous customers, and call them to get feedback about the contractor’s work quality, as well as communication and organization skills.
- Visit on-going project: Ask the installer candidate whether they have an on-going project you can visit. If they do, go ahead and visit the site to visually observe the contractor’s crews in action.
- Confirm ICF experience and qualifications: Ask the contractor about prior experience with ICF projects, or whether they’ve attended any ICF installer courses. While these qualifications are not mandatory (plenty of quality installers are successful on their very first ICF project), they’re still a “good-to-have” selection criteria you should consider.
- Ask whether installer has their own crew: An installer that has a dedicated crew will be more efficient (and will produce higher-quality results) than one that subcontracts their scope of work.
- Find out whether installer has ICF bracing: 40 sets of ICF bracing typically suffice for a standard ICF basement.
- Inquire about the warranty terms: Ideally, your ICF installer will provide you with a warranty for their work. Make sure you’re content with the warranty terms before proceeding with the contract.
- Confirm installer’s liability insurance: Your ICF installer must have general liability insurance as well as a Workers Compensation account. Ensure that this requirement is met before you award them the contract for your ICF project.
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How to Use an Installer Who Is Not ICF-experienced or Trained
Good crews who are not experienced with ICFs are perfectly capable of building quality ICF buildings on their first try – provided they arrange for proper ICF training and technical support.
If you’re thinking about engaging an installer who hasn’t worked with ICFs before your project, ask that they at least attend an introductory course on ICF construction.
Logix ICF offers online and live installation training for installers, so you can ask your local Logix dealer to get your installer registered for one of these sessions. Your local Logix ICF dealer can also usually be engaged to provide additional technical support as well.
Wrapping it up
ICF construction is straightforward. That said, finding a quality installer is crucial for any ICF project to be successful.
In the post above, we’ve shared ways you can find local experienced ICF installers, as well as tips for selecting the best contractor for your project.
And if you’re set on using an installer with no ICF experience – don’t fret.
Training and technical support is available installers willing to learn ICF construction methods – ask your local Logix dealer for more info!
