Using insulated concrete forms in building has several advantages over more traditional methods of construction such as wood frame housing. It is a very simple method of construction that can be easily learned. It also creates buildings of higher strength with better insulation.

Lightweight panels are used to create the formwork for the walls of a building. Steel rebar is placed in the spaces for reinforcement and these are then filled with concrete. The panels are then left in place and create very good thermal and acoustic insulation. Channels can easily be cut into the softer insulating material to run electrical wire and plumbing.

Concrete has much better strength and durability than wood frame housing. It is a very quick and simple method of construction so it can cost as much as 40% less than other methods of building. This is because there are fewer steps to the construction process which saves on labor.

If the construction process is above grade it can be slightly more expensive. In the long run there will be lower costs for heating and cooling due to a higher degree of insulation so this more than makes up for the small additional cost. Because this type of building is more durable it will also have a higher resale value.

There are four different types of insulation that are commonly used. Lightweight panels can be made from polystyrene and polyurethane foam. These are easy to work with and have very good insulating properties. Polystyrene beads or wood fibers that are bonded with cement can also be used to create a more rigid panel. The panels are designed to interlock so that they are easily held in place and stay in place after construction.

Once the formwork is in place the concrete has to be poured in one or two foot rises so that there is not too much outward pressure. If it was poured in one stage there would be too much pressure at the bottom and the form would just blow out. To prevent honeycombing and air pockets a vibrator should be used to agitate the poured mixture.

After plumbing and electrical work is complete the interior walls can be covered in gypsum board or a number of coatings. Exterior walls can be finished off with brick or some other kind of siding. Because polystyrene on outside surfaces is at risk of water damage or insects they are often waterproofed and treated with insecticide.

There should be no gaps between the walls and floor slab or between any of the walls. This improves insulation but it also means that insects can\’t get in. The walls are also not susceptible to boring insects like wood is. This means that there are many advantages of this type of construction over wood frame houses.

One drawback is that it is more difficult to make changes or alterations afterwards but it does require less structural enhancement once you have cut a doorway or window. In the long term insulated concrete forms are a good investment. They also make more comfortable homes for living in.

The leading supplier of insulated concrete forms helps builders create green buildings using energy efficient construction.

The leading supplier of insulated concrete forms helps builders create green buildings using energy efficient construction.
http://durisolbuild.com

Author Bio: The leading supplier of insulated concrete forms helps builders create green buildings using energy efficient construction.

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