Insulated Concrete Forms

(ICFs)

Insulated concrete forms are rigid

plastic foam forms that hold concrete

in place during curing and remain in

place afterwards to serve as thermal

insulation for concrete walls.

Insulated Concrete Forms

• Homes being built with ICFs

have the insulation built into

the walls as part of the

surface.

• These systems create walls

that have a high thermal

resistance.

• They also provide a backing

for drywall on the inside, as

well as stucco, siding, or brick

for the outside.

http://www.monsterconstructors.com/img/icf-walls.jpg

ICFs

• Very strong structurally, they are an ideal choice for areas that are

prone to wildfires, hurricanes, and tornadoes.

• Excellent insulating qualities.

• Easy to build radius walls, which are problematic with conventional

wood framing.

• Virtually no worksite cutting, which minimizes waste. This saves

money and is a green building practice.

• Quick and efficient to go up because of the linear and streamlined

process, from design to finish.

Types of ICFs

• A flat system yields a continuous thickness of

concrete, like a conventionally poured wall.

• A grid system creates walls using a waffle

pattern. The concrete is thicker at some points

than others.

•A post-and-beam system consists of discrete

horizontal and vertical columns of concrete, which

are completely encapsulated in foam insulation.

Types of ICFs

http://www.quadlock.com/images/misc/concrete_cores.png

COST

• ICF material cost ranges from about

$1.75 to $3.50 per square foot.

• However the cost of installation labor,

reinforcement, bracing, and concrete

placement will be additional.

Advantages

• Significant energy savings

• Severe weather resistance

• Lower insurance premiums

• Faster construction time

• Insect resistant

• Significant exterior noise reduction

• Four times the fire resistance of wood-framed homes

• Environmentally friendly (Using ICF blocks to construct a 2,000 square foot

home will save almost 50 trees)

• The only disadvantage is the cost of an ICF house.

ICFs

Insulated Concrete Forms Movie