<P> ICF construction is less demanding, owing to its modularity . Less - skilled labor can be employed to lay the ICF forms, though careful consideration must be made when pouring the concrete to make sure it consolidates fully and cures evenly without cracking . Unlike traditional wood beam construction, no additional structural support other than temporary scaffolding is required for openings, doors, windows, or utilities, though modifying the structure after the concrete cures requires special concrete cutting tools . </P> <P> ICF walls are conventionally placed on a monolithic slab with embedded rebar dowels connecting the walls to the foundation . </P> <P> ICF decking is becoming an increasingly popular addition to general ICF wall construction . ICF decking weighs up to 40% less than standard concrete flooring and provides superior insulation . ICF decking can also be designed in conjunction with ICF walls to form a continuous monolithic structure joined together by rebar . ICF deck roofs are popular in storm - areas, but it is harder to build complex roof shapes and concrete can be poured only up to a point on angled surfaces, often 7: 12 maximum pitch . </P> <P> ICF walls are constructed one row at a time, usually starting at the corners and working toward the middle of the walls . End blocks are then cut to fit so as to waste the least material possible . As the wall rises, blocks are staggered to avoid long vertical seams that can weaken the polystyrene formwork . Structure frames known as bucks are placed around openings to give added strength to the openings and to serve as attachment points for windows and doors . </P>

What is an icf and what characteristics make this product green