I know this topic has been discussed a lot.  But I was wondering what the consensus was.  I currently have Platon (dimple board) that I'm going to run around the basement walls.  I also bought some rolls of peel-n-stick membrane.  I was thinking of using the peal-n-stick between my form-a-drain and about 2' up the wall.  But now that I think about it, if any water got into the block, and traveled down the concrete and foam to the footer, then it'd be trapped between the concrete and the membrane and would have to go to the inside of the wall to drain.  I'm wondering if the membrane would cause more issues than it's worth. 

Now I'm thinking simple Platon all the way down with nothing else. 

I was also think of running a simple drain tile as a redunant drain.  It seems like FAD would be impossible to flush if something ever restricted it. 

What do you guys think?

Sean

I used dimpled membrane with drain tiles and gravel backfill. No other water proofing. I don't understand the purpose of peel'n'stick or brushed on rubber membranes for ICF. While I realize that the styrofoam isn't 100% waterproof, it is almost waterproof. At least my cheap styrofoam cooler doesn't leak and styrofoam cups work well for coffee without leaking...

Posted By galore on 06 Jun 2011 10:38 PM While I realize that the styrofoam isn't 100% waterproof, it is almost waterproof. At least my cheap styrofoam cooler doesn't leak and styrofoam cups work well for coffee without leaking...

I agree. Before I built my house I took a portion of a Buildblock form and submerged it in water for 10 days to 2 weeks, as I recall. It increased no measurable amount in weight, using a 5 lb postage scale with a preciseness of 1/10 oz or 1 gram. On the other hand, I have seen floating boat docks settle lower and lower in the water over several years as the styro blocks underneath got waterlogged. Also, my brother's hot tub cover got water logged after about 10 years of use.

The extent you go to to assure no water gets into the ICF blocks depends in large part how severe the water presence will be against the block. I think a drain pipe on both sides of the footer, plus providing a clear pathway for water to drop down to it, is the best approach except for maybe the most extreme conditions.

I use FAD, peel and stick that covers the joint between footer and the wall, and the dimpled plastic over that , backfilled with the excavated material and no leaks. (even with no gutters and final grade not finished as yet) No problems . I have a suspicion that leakage problems are more a void or honeycombing problem for people who neglect to vibrate concrete properly.