What is ICF Construction and How Does it Provide an Energy Efficient Home?

Gaining in popularity for the green home are the tools of the trade.  ICF's, or insulating concrete forms, are one of the strongest forms of construction in that the home is built with concrete.  These forms used primarily for the exterior walls of the home are designed with foam that is grooved and fitted to fit the other ICF pieces just like a puzzle.  In between the two pieces of foam on either side are rebar reinforcements that lock the foam pieces together and provide solid material for the concrete to adhere to.

ICF's are a popular way to go in the construction of a green home in that they not only provide a solid home but also an energy-efficient home.  Since the concrete is totally encapsulated in rigid foam, the foam provides the energy efficiency while the concrete provides the strength.  Energy efficiency is dependant on how the home is built and how much leakage is moving in and out of the house.  Green home practices focus on building air-tight homes and with the interlocking foam blocks and long continuous panels, ICF's are ideal in preventing air leakage.  The solid structure and the fact that concrete doesn't settle, also lends to the tight house construction.

While ICF's are definitely something that may seem like a different philosophy in building a home, the fact is that when the home is finished, it actually looks like every other home.  If you have ever been in a house with ICF construction, one of the many comments is in regards to how quiet the home is with very little outdoor noise penetrating the walls.  Solid construction, high energy efficiency, superior wind and fire resistance, superior soundproofing, and affordability are big plusses for ICF's.  Vapor and air barriers are built in to maintain a healthy interior air environment. 

Rising Energy Costs Causing Money to Go Down the Drain

No question about it, ICF's are changing the way homes are being built.  Consumers are realizing not only realizing the benefits of a healthy home, but most definitely are enjoying the benefits of energy efficiency.  With the rising cost of oil, more people are more aware of how much of their budget is actually being flushed down the drain by high energy costs. 

My green listing in Canadian Lakes, Michigan has been built from top to bottom with ICF construction including the roof.  It is one of most quiet, energy efficient homes located in that beautiful area.