We've a pretty simple foundation to do.  Hillside lot, 9'4" walls where things are full depth, but with stepdown sides so the height goes to 13'4" at the walkout end.

Pourable in one day?  We're doing Logix 6.25" core, and the Logix rep (we went to a class) said we should pour the stepdowns and frostwall first, then cold-joint the 9'4" walls over that.

It's our first, but we're not dummies about concrete.

If you are a regular here, you have seen my earlier posts where I was questioning block layout and rebar issues.  This is the same foundation I showed with .jpg pics in those earlier posts.

What do you do?

Technically no, you should not pour that high in one day, realistically, yes I have done it, and I am sure most others here have as well, consult with your engineer, building inspector/special inspector (if used). If they give you the green light, go for it. The big issue is the safety factor, that is a lot of wet/heavy mud and if by chance something were to happen someone could very easily get hurt. Is that a chance you want to take? Most guys who have done this for a period of time get more and more comfortable working with ICF's know what to look for during the pour and can pour these heights in one day easily. Since it is your first, I would assume the Logix's rep will be present during the pour, perhaps you should follow his direction, discuss with him again your situation and he may change his mind and say go for it, as well if the above parties too agree, keep in mind you need a vibrator with a whip long enough to reach down the 13'4 plus a few extra feet so about a 16' whip.

Chris

We would pour this in one day. Paying attention to a well placed string on our walls will keeps them aligned through the process.

But if I was just starting out, and if my rep. was experienced and trustworthy, I would follow his/her advice.

Kevin

Gene,

I am not quite sure what Chris is talking about technically not pouring that high but the system you are using does not have any problem with handling the pressure. The ACI recommends you pour 4 feet then properly consolodate it, then pour your next lift of 4 feet over that and properly consolodate it.

The only issue that I feel you may run into is at your steps in the footing. If these are within about 4 to 6 feet from a corner then the pressure of the concrete against the step of the footing will want to push the corner out and away from the step, typically during vibration. This just takes a little extra effort to secure the corner in place before the pour to ensure a nice relaxing concrete pour. Hope It all works well.

ICF Contractor