What is ICF?
Insulated concrete forms are used in the construction of poured concrete walls. They are 1’ x 4’ high density EPS foam blocks (like large legos) that are stacked up, braced and serve as a form to pour the concrete in. Then, they stay in place for the life of the structure and serve as high performing insulation. In addition, there are thousands of ties in the foam, both inside and out, that provide attachments for drywall, siding and necessary trim. A 3-in-1 process that can’t be beat!
Energy Efficient
Save 50-70% on average just in utility bills alone! In addition, homeowners insurance premiums are lower due to the use of concrete and ICF! With Quad-Lock you can build walls with your choice of insulation value, from R-22 to R-59. Choose the optimum Insulation Value depending on your local climate and energy-saving goals. High, continuous insulation combined with low air infiltration and the thermal mass of concrete provide at least 58% better R-Value than most wood-frame walls.
Structurally Superior
Few materials compare to the strength of concrete poured into insulated forms. ICF walls resist burning flames with temperatures up to 2000 degrees for 3-4 hours and withstand 200 m.p.h. severe weather winds. You can trust ICF walls for protection and longevity. Buildings constructed with ICF have a life expectancy of more than 200 years, which is 2-3 times longer than structures built with 2×6 wood frames.
ICF walls are solid. Only one-sixth of common outdoor noise (barking dogs, lawn mowers, traffic, etc.) passes through the walls. Because of the solid material in the walls there is no worry about rotting, decaying or insect infestation. Even years after construction little maintenance is required to keep it like new because concrete does not rust or corrode, saving you money and time that you can invest elsewhere.
Safe, Healthy and Green
An ICF structure is the answer for people with asthma and allergy problems. ICF forms don’t contain the harmful chemicals such as formaldehydes, hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFC’s) and chlorofluorocarbon (CFC). ICF’s exceed many products that were developed to improve indoor air quality and takes green building to the next level. ICF’s aren’t constructed with wood therefore eliminating mold, rot, mildew and pest issues. There are no openings to creak, sag or crack with age/settling. Using this sustainable green technology with superior strength offers a safe home for you and your family in a severe storm, and with Quad-Lock, a 3-4 hour fire rating in the event of a fire. ICF wall construction, a 3 in 1 step process that gives you a poured in place reinforced concrete wall with two layers of EPS insulation that provides built-in fasteners for finishes on the interior and exterior of your structure.
Save Our Trees
1-2 billion metric tons of carbon is dispersed into the atmosphere yearly due to the deforestation around the globe. Most softwood lumber must be imported(up to 80%) from Canada and others. ICF is a great way to protect ourselves by reducing the amount of trees needed in the construction industry (every ICF home saves a few trees). Carbon monoxide is absorbed by trees to give oxygen to us. Let’s do our part in saving the environment!
Peace of Mind
When you choose ICF there is unprecedented peace of mind knowing that your family and belongings are safe in a healthy, mold-resistant environment, breathing filtered, dust-free air, and protected from harsh weather elements. You will love the fact that building with sustainable, green technologies allows for consistent room temperatures, making your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. ICF also provides an excellent sound barrier, making your home quiet. Lastly, you will find satisfaction in the reduction of your energy bills.
Reduce Waste
The United States spends millions, in many years billions of dollars in disaster relief when wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes and flooding occur. Building with concrete and EPS foam(used in ICFs) is 100% recyclable! But even better…building homes/buildings with ICF almost guarantees that when these types of natural disasters do happen, you and your loved ones won’t fall victims of the devastation happening around.
The local building codes are the MINIMUM requirements for building. Let’s start building America stronger, safer and greener with ICF! Get in touch ›