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INSULATED CONCRETE FORMS (ICF)

Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are stay-in-place formwork for energy-efficient, cast-in-place, reinforced concrete walls. ICFs are Styrofoam forms that hold concrete during placement and remain after curing, to serve as thermal insulation for concrete walls. The ICF sections are lightweight, energy-efficient, and durable.

Foundation walls built with ICFs are generally easier and faster to construct than either concrete masonry unit (CMU) or cast-in-place (CIP) concrete foundations. Insulating forms protect the concrete from freezing and rapid drying. Concrete can be poured in ICFs when the temperature is as low as -12°C, requiring only the top of the form to be protected with insulating blankets. In extremely hot weather, where evaporation is a concern, only the top of the form requires to be covered with plastic sheeting.

ICF construction provides improved building durability over wood construction because they are more resistant to moisture and less attractive to termites and other pests. Neither polystyrene nor concrete will ever rot or rust, allowing for less repair and maintenance.

ADVANTAGES TO USING ICF

• Energy efficient - ICF buildings are 44% cheaper to heat and 32% cheaper to cool than woodframe homes.
• No need to frame and insulate basement walls as insulation is already in place.
• Drywall or interior finish is easily attached using fastening strips located every 8".
• High performance R-values.
  
• Lower cost to heat and cool - The combined mortgage and utility payments are typically less than for a traditionally built structure.
• Lower insurance costs - ICF homeowners' insurance may be discounted because of the disaster-resistant concrete construction.
• Durable and strong - It has been proven that concrete poured within ICF forms cure with 20% more strength than concrete poured within traditional formply.
• Enhances steady temperatures aided by "thermal massing".
• Minimal to no air infiltration means dramatically reduced dust and allergens.
• No cavity walls for mold, mildew, bugs or rodents.
  
• More insect resistant than wood frame construction.
  
• Minimal maintenance requirements.
  
• Easier and faster to construct.
• Design versatility.
• High sound absorption - A sound transmission classification of STC 50 (virtually inaudible) is easily attainable. By comparison, a typical woodframe-constructed building has an average STC of only 25, which allows people indoors to hear and understand voices outside.
• Moisture Resistant - ICF walls eliminate the need for an additional vapor barrier.
  

For more information, please visit www.nudura.com, www.forms.org and www.icfmag.com.