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Construction Services :: ICF foundations or entire homes
Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) are stay-in-place formwork for energy-efficient, cast-in-place reinforced-concrete walls.
The forms are interlocking modular units that are dry-stacked (without mortar) and filled with concrete. The forms lock together somewhat like Lego bricks and serve to create a form for the structural walls of a building. Concrete is pumped into the cavity to form the structural element of the walls.
After the concrete has cured, or firmed up, the forms are left in place permanently for the following reasons:
- Thermal and acoustic insulation
- Fire protection
- Space to run electrical conduit and plumbing
- Backing for gypsum boards on the interior and stucco, brick, or other siding on the exterior
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Benefits of Insulated Concrete Forms
This method has several advantages compared to traditional building materials, especially in residential and light commercial construction. The advantages of structures built with this method include:
- Minimal, if any, air leaks -> comfort, less heat loss
- Superior energy performance -> Lower energy bills
- High sound absorption -> Peace and quiet inside
- Time-tested structural integrity -> Resistance to forces of nature
- Low maintenance, high durability, very long lifespan -> Higher resale values
- When the building is constructed on a concrete slab, the walls and floors form one continuous surface. This keeps out insects.
- Concrete does not rot when it gets wet.
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