Insulated Concrete Forms
A well insulated home really does just feel better and with the added efficiency and energy savings you can feel good about owning an insulated concrete form (ICF) home. Concrete has been proven to be one of the best materials for home building worldwide. It provides solid, lasting construction, resistant to fire, weather and wear. With Insulated Concrete Forms you receive all of the benefits of concrete with the added bonus of two built-in layers of foam insulation which create an incredibly efficient wall system. ICF homes have a considerable advantage over ordinary stick built homes - greater energy efficiency. This quality alone will end up saving you money, giving you more peace and quiet, and a great overall feel to your home that will result in more living comfort.
Insulated Concrete Form Costs
ICFs typically have a higher cost than more traditional methods of construction, but the cost of ownership of an ICF structure is significantly less than more traditional methods. ICF homes have such a remarkable feel that they really have to be experienced to be believed. Once you step inside you can tell immediately that this is no ordinary house. It feels comfortable, quiet and well-insulated. You can just feel that it is solid and built to last.
What features and benefits does ICF construction have that typical construction methods lack?
Energy
- Lower cost to heat and cool
- High performance R-values
- No air infiltration
- Permanent performance – no downgrading over time
- Shifts thermal loading from peak periods
Health
- No air infiltration means no dust or allergens
- No cavity walls for mold, mildew, bugs or rodents
- Non-toxic materials
- No off-gassing of materials
Comfort
- High sound attenuating
- Enhances steady temperatures
- Peace of mind during inclement weather events
- Low maintenance structure
- May attribute to lower insurance costs
Structural
- High-wind resistant
- Fire rated assembly
- Strength is permanent
- Will not rot or decay
- Resistant to termites
- Impact resistant
- No maintenance requirements
Construction
- Design versatility
- Sound deadening
- Conducive to Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS)
- Fully code-accepted, cast-in-place, concrete walls
- Time tested and proven