Task: The University of Quebec was building a new 7-story student housing structure and wanted to use ICF construction both to generate energy savings and to ensure a fast and safe construction process.

Challenge: At the time, insulated concrete forms were rarely used in the construction of buildings more than three stories high. Polycrete ICF blocks were developed specifically to address the problems typically associated with ICF construction, and this project marked the test of Polycrete’s innovative ICF technologies for use in commercial construction.

Solution: Polycrete’s large size and steel reinforcement within the ICF block helped speed up the timeline and ensure there were no issues with blowouts or deformation during construction. Once flooring for each story was complete, contractors could work on plumbing, electricity, heating and interior finishes on the level below – well in advance of the anticipated timeline and while concrete pouring was still occurring on upper stories.

Though there were slightly higher than conventional construction costs associated with the ICF, the faster timeline meant that labor costs were lower and the building generated revenue earlier than anticipated. Maintenance and operating costs were also significantly less, with energy costs almost 50% lower than conventional buildings.

PROJECT STATS

Location: Montreal, Quebec

Type: University Resident Housing

Size: 75,000 square feet (floor)             

ICF Use:   32,600

CONSTRUCTION TEAM

Owner: University of Quebec

General Contractor: Décarel Inc.

ICF Installer: Arel Mécoba Inc.

Architect: Groupe Cardinal, Hardy