Testing and Design of Lintels Using Insulating Concrete Forms

Concrete lintels are used in Insulating Concrete Form (ICF) construction to transfer loads above window and door openings in walls. Current design methods typically require vertical shear reinforcement as well as horizontal tensile reinforcing steel to support bending loads. However, in many residential and light-construction situations, shear reinforcement may not be necessary to achieve adequate performance. Shear reinforcement is difficult to place in ICF forms, complicates the construction process, and creates difficulties in placing the concrete. Therefore, this study is intended to investigate the need for shear reinforcement and, if possible, develop an improved ICF lintel design methodology based on testing results.