Residential Two-Story Dwelling Project

Project Overview

FortWest Engineering provided comprehensive structural and mechanical engineering services for a custom two-story ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) residential dwelling in the Sunshine Coast region. Drawing on our firsthand experience building our own ICF home, our team delivered specialized solutions that maximized the benefits of this innovative construction method while ensuring structural integrity and energy efficiency.

Project Highlights

• ICF Construction: Engineered structural systems optimized for Insulated Concrete Forms building techniques
• Two-Story Design: Custom structural solutions for a modern multi-level residence
• Energy Efficiency: Maximized the thermal performance potential of ICF construction
• Practical Approach: Applied our personal ICF building experience to enhance constructability and cost-efficiency

Our Engineering Contributions

ICF Structural Design & Analysis

• Engineered reinforced concrete wall designs with optimal steel placement for the ICF forms
• Designed critical connection details between concrete walls and wood floor systems
• Developed custom concrete mix designs suitable for local conditions and ICF applications
• Leveraged the inherent strength of ICF construction for superior seismic and wind resistance
• Performed detailed calculations accounting for the unique properties of ICF structural systems

Building Envelope Excellence

• Designed thermal envelope details that eliminate common ICF thermal bridges
• Specified appropriate waterproofing and dampproofing systems for below-grade ICF walls
• Created window and door rough opening details optimized for ICF construction
• Developed roof-to-wall connection details that maintain envelope continuity

Mechanical Systems Integration

• Properly sized heating and cooling systems to account for ICF's superior thermal performance
• Engineered balanced ventilation systems appropriate for the airtight ICF construction
• Designed practical solutions for integrating plumbing and electrical services through ICF walls
• Performed energy analysis to predict performance and optimize mechanical systems

Construction Support & Quality Assurance

• Technical supervising during the critical ICF installation and concrete pouring phases
• Construction and verification of proper ICF assembly and reinforcement placement
• Verification of concrete consolidation and structural connections

Project Outcome

• Superior Structural Strength: Reinforced concrete walls provide exceptional durability and resistance to coastal weather conditions
• Outstanding Energy Performance: The continuous insulation of ICF construction delivers superior thermal performance with minimal thermal bridging
• Excellent Sound Attenuation: The mass of concrete combined with foam insulation creates a remarkably quiet living environment
• Long-Term Durability: ICF construction offers superior resistance to moisture, pests, and aging compared to traditional building methods

The FortWest Engineering Advantage

• Our firsthand understanding of construction challenges and solutions
• Practical knowledge that bridges the gap between engineering theory and construction reality
• Deep familiarity with local building authorities' requirements for building projects
• The ability to optimize designs for both performance and constructability

By combining technical excellence with real-world building experience, we deliver engineering solutions that maximize the benefits of this innovative construction method while ensuring projects proceed smoothly from concept to completion.