ICF construction is an energy efficient and reinforced wall made of concrete. You can think of them as being a little like Lego blocks for erecting a building. The blocks are stacked to form either the interior or exterior walls of a commercial or residential building. These walls are then reinforced with steel and concrete is poured into the spacial element within the walls. This is how an insulated concrete form is made.

Although ICF construction was first developed as an underground foundational wall structure, this technique came quickly to the surface. It is now being used for interior and exterior walls, as sound-proofing barriers, and even as storm shelters. Plumbing and electrical pipes and wires are not usually made to be installed on the inside of exterior walls. However, they can fit into the insulated concrete forms\’ framework before the concrete is poured.

One of the best insulated concrete forms are the cement bonded wood forms. These are made of a wood fiber material which uses only natural ingredients. The combination of recycled wood waste and cement creates a more durable ICF construction wall.

There are a wide variety of materials that can fill an insulated concrete form but, you want to use the ones that have recyclable materials, are environmentally safe and do not emit toxic fumes. Avoid the insulated concrete forms that have plastic, foam or polystyrene as part of their filling materials.

There are many benefits of ICF construction over the regular wood frame construction. This type of architectural technique creates a wall that has one long, smooth surface. This provides greater strength and comfort to the building structure. It also creates a great barrier to keep bugs and insects out of the walls.

As well, this smooth, continuous design has less ways for air to enter the building so, there is less dust, mold, and allergens within the interior atmosphere. Also, the continual design allows much less external noise to penetrate the walls, providing a quiet living or work space.

Insulated concrete forms are a more efficient and effective form of insulating. This means the building stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter months. Ultimately, it could save between 50% and 80% on heating and cooling costs for the building. The continuous wall creates a thermal barrier that requires the installation of intake vents. The air exchange within the atmosphere is so low, that acceptable indoor air quality standards can be a challenge to meet.

The strength of a building made with insulated concrete forms can not be underestimated. It has been proven they can withstand winds speeds of up to 200 miles an hour. They can also resist fire for up to 3 and a half hours. These types of buildings have been known to stand up against hurricanes and tornadoes. As well, concrete does not rot, even when sitting in stagnant water for a long period of time. All of these reasons make ICF construction a fantastic choice for your home, office building, or warehouse.

With over a hundred thousand projects completed in ICF Construction, its the starting point for energy efficient homes, hotels, warehouses and more.

With over a hundred thousand projects completed in ICF Construction, its the starting point for energy efficient homes, hotels, warehouses and more.
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Author Bio: With over a hundred thousand projects completed in ICF Construction, its the starting point for energy efficient homes, hotels, warehouses and more.

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