Frequently asked questions

How long does the initial construction of the IFCW™ take?

As with any construction project, the amount of time it takes to construct the wall depends on the size and complexity of the project. However, construction time could be as short as three months, including design time.

How much time and effort does it take to erect the IFCW™?

The IFCW™ is easily erected in a relatively short amount of time. Man hours can be calculated by multiplying the height times the width and dividing by 200.

For example, a 50-foot wide by 10-foot high wall would take 2.5 hours to erect. With two men (the recommended amount), this wall would be up in 1.25 hours.

However, it should be noted that this would bring the wall to its 100-year floodplain height, which very well may be unnecessary. Quite probably, these same men would only be erecting the wall to half its potential height or less, requiring only 45 minutes or less to erect.

On smaller, more difficult sites, unit production may be slower. In such cases, erection time may be calculated by multiplying the height times the width and dividing by 100.

How long are the IFCW™ planks?

The lightweight aluminum planks which comprise the IFCW™ are available in any length, however 20-feet is the recommended length.

How much storage room does the IFCW™ require when it is not in use?

Since the IFCW™ is stored with its aluminum planks stacked neatly on top of each other - with the parting supports stacked on top of them - the required storage space is minimal.

The planks in the photo are 10-feet long, and make up a wall that is 90-feet wide and 4-feet high. Obviously, the storage room required (5' x 5' x 10') for this wall is negligible.

How much of the IFCW™ is left on site when the planks are in storage?

The only component of the IFCW™ that remains when the wall is stored is the concrete foundation, leaving the protected site completely unfettered when river levels are normal.

How long does the IFCW™ last?

The life of the IFCW™'s aluminum planks and steel parting supports is virtually infinite, easily meeting 50 to 100-year design criteria. Additionally, gaskets are replaceable if they are damaged during use.

Does the IFCW™ really require as little maintenance as more traditional flood protection such as earth levees and concrete walls?

Absolutely. The truth is, earth levees are constantly in danger from burrowing rodents and tunneling snakes as well as considerable erosion during flood times, both of which require vigilant observation and upkeep. Similarly, concrete walls are vulnerable to the destructive forces of freeze and thaw, settling, and the expensive and annoying plague of vandalism and graffiti.

Since the IFCW™ remains stored securely away when it isn't being used, it is subject to none of the dangers that affect traditional flood control systems.

Is the IFCW™ really as reliable as traditional flood control systems?

Yes. The IFCW™ meets all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers design criteria for floodwalls and has been approved for use on five current Corps of Engineers projects. Unlike traditional alternatives, however, the IFCW™ keeps the beauty of a riverfront setting intact.