While ICF walls naturally resist moisture thanks to their polystyrene makeup, they aren’t entirely waterproof. In wet or below-grade settings, water from soil pressure, heavy rain, or freeze-thaw cycles can still cause damage. That’s why Alleguard places a strong focus on waterproofing, especially for basements and retaining walls.
There are three types of membranes that can be applied to Amvic™ ICF including liquid applied membranes, peel-and-stick membranes and dimpled membranes. Each of these have advantages and disadvantages and the choice to choose one of the other is left up to the designer/client. However, factors to consider before making a choice are:
- Local availability: Check with your local Alleguard distributor to inquire about the availability of applicable products to Amvic™ ICF in your area.
- Product technical information: Ensure that your product of choice has the proper technical information with regards to specifications, installation instructions and meets the local building code requirements.
- Manufacturer’s warranty: The product manufacturer should have a product warranty against production deficiencies. Some manufacturers offer up to 30 years of warranty on their products.
- Installer’s warranty: The contractor installing the product should offer an installation warranty to guarantee that product is installed properly and will perform up to the requirements for a given period of time.
- Installer’s reference: It is recommended to ask your installer about their experience using the specific product of choice.
- Price: Higher performance products will almost always cost more than less performance ones.
Carefully weigh the benefits against the costs before deciding on which product to use. Regardless of which type and brand of application to be used, always follow the manufacturer’s installation procedures for ICF application.
Liquid Applied Waterproofing Systems
Liquid membranes typically come in 5-gallon buckets and can be applied using a brush, roller, trowel, or sprayer (depending on the product). Once applied, they create a seamless layer over the ICF assembly.
To protect that layer from backfill damage, Alleguard recommends adding protective boards or a drainage membrane. This not only shields the waterproofing layer but also helps manage water flow down to the footing drain.
All liquid membranes used on ICF must be water-based and solvent-free.
Compatible liquid applied waterproofing membrane products for Amvic™ ICF include:
- BLUE SEAL™ ICF and Concrete Construction - Henry Company
- Aqua-Bloc 720-33 - Henry Company
- Aqua-Bloc 720-38 - Henry Company
- CCW BARRICOAT - Carlisle
- e.spray - EPRO
- Rub-R-Wall - Advanced Coatings
Self-Adhering (Peel-and-Stick) ICF Waterproofing Membranes
Self-adhered membranes adhere directly to the EPS on Amvic™ ICF walls. They include a glue layer protected by a backing sheet, which is removed during installation. Most require a water-based primer, especially in colder weather, to improve adhesion. If a primer is used it must be water based and free of any solvents, such as SOPREMA - Elastocol Stick H2O.
Recommended self-adhering waterproofing membrane products for Amvic™ ICF:
- COLPHENE ICF - SOPREMA
- Blueskin® WP 200 - Henry Company
- MiraDRI 860/861 - Carlisle
- 650 Membrane - Polyguard
Dimpled Membrane Systems
Dimpled membranes form a physical barrier between the soil and the ICF wall. Installed with the dimples facing the foam, they create a gap that channels water downward, relieving hydrostatic pressure and helping prevent moisture from entering the building. When installed correctly, they are highly effective for maintaining a dry below grade environment.
Dimpled membranes products for Amvic™ ICF:
- Platon Foundation Wrap - Armtec
- DELTA®-MS - Dörken
- AG Foundation Wrap - DMX Plastics
Alleguard EPS products and accessories are built to work with top waterproofing systems. Whether you’re using a liquid coating, self-adhered membrane, or a dimpled membrane, pairing them with Amvic™ ICF gives you long-lasting, energy-efficient protection. Follow best practices and your builds will stand strong and dry from the footing to the roofline.
Read more: Complete Guide to ICF Waterproofing for Below-Grade Walls