Tips for footing and stem wall pour in the winter – GreenBuildingAdvisor

Hi all,

I am planning to start construction on a 2200sqft cabin. (in Zone 5) with about 320 lineal feet of footer/stem wall between the garage and main. The obvious issue here is that the footing and stem wall pours will take place in the middle of winter, which poses material freezing risks during the curing period.

I intend to use 6″ ICF (4′ in height – 2′ below grade and 2′ above grade) for the stem wall and I’m contemplating using Foothold ICF footing brackets (https://thefootholdicf.com) to create a frost protected footing form. Last, I would likely place a 10mil capillary break (polyethylene) under the footer and temporarily cover the top of the concrete during the cure period. Fox Blocks claims that 100 degree internal temps can be achieved using ICF for pours if proper measures are taken, but I have limited experience with this assembly.

Looking for general guidance or wisdom from those who have successfully poured foundations in these conditions. Thanks