Construction Forms

1. ICF homes are super insulated with 5-6 inches of polystyrene insulation on the exterior walls. The wall have an traditional R-rating of over 25 with no thermal bridging which is common with wood or steel stud homes. Heating and cooling costs are reduced by 25-50%.
2. Because of the high volume of insulation and the concrete mass, ICF homes are very quiet inside. They transmit less than 1/3 of the sound that a traditional stick framed house does. This is a big advantage when situated near an airport or busy street.
3. ICF homes are durable and long lasting. They have a solid feel that is not present in wood and steel framed homes. The withstand wind pressures caused by hurricanes and tornados that would destroy a traditional home. Concrete is non combustible which makes ICF homes resistant to Fire damage. Insects will have no effect on an ICF home. Homeowners insurance rates are often cheaper because of these advantages. They will also need less maintenance than a framed home.
4. ICF homes claim to be a healthier choice than traditional homes. Because heating and cooling costs are reduced the house is healthier. ICF homes have been tested and results show that an almost complete absence of any emissions.
5. ICF homes are environmentally sound. They don't use wood (interior walls are often steel stud) and they take less materials to complete.

1. Cost; expect to pay 5-10% more for a ICF home depending on where you live. Where ICF homes are popular the cost will probably be a little cheaper.
2. Even though ICF construction is very durable and Code approved, it will take a little extra to get your plans through the building department (unless they are familiar with the particular system that you are using).
3. ICF construction requires subcontractors to do certain tasks differently. Wiring, heating, plumbing, drywall will be different than in traditional construction. This might cause prices to be higher or difficulty finding subs that have experience working in an ICF home.