Also known as ICF, insulated concrete forms are one of the most efficient, safe, and advanced building materials available on the market today. Here are just some of the benefits:
- ICF is good for your wallet, as it can save you up to 70% in energy consumption and costs.
- It’s good for the environment, as each building made with ICF saves up to 10 trees.
- It’s resistant to tornados, hurricanes, earthquakes, and fire.
- Termite/Rodent resistant.
- It reduces outside air infiltration by up to 75%, which means less dust, which in turn means fewer allergy symptoms.
- ICF is multiple times quieter than wood or metal framing.
- It can be used to construct almost any building plan using any finish, even brick, stucco, and siding.
- ICF costs the same or less than 2x6 framing, but with reduced HVAC equipment sizes.
ICF is made of hollow foam blocks which are stacked on top of each other in the form called for by the building plans. Then they are reinforced with steel rebar and filled with concrete. Once the walls have set, the outside is cladded with the preferred material (siding, brick, stucco, etc.), while on the inside, plumbing, electrical, and other connections are run through the foam itself. Then drywall, flooring, and other finishes are installed. Homes made from ICF look like any other, but they performs considerably better. They are quieter, more comfortable, and more energy efficient – plus, they are safer and more permanent.
Of course, many home buyers wonder why, if ICF performs so much better, most home builders are sticking with traditional wood-frame construction for the time being. There are two reasons which may explain this. The first is that while ICF has been around for decades in many areas of the country, it is still relatively unknown in Connecticut and many builders are simply unfamiliar with it. Secondly, ICF primarily benefits the home buyer, not the home builder. However, in the long run, a home builder working with superior materials can expect to see increased customer satisfaction, referrals, and business. This is why we expect to see more and more builders using and recommending ICF as time goes on.