2. New concepts in construction don’t come along
everyday, so when you find one that offers benefits in
several different areas, it’s worth jumping on. It’s no
secret just how important the walls and foundation are
to any construction project, and using insulated
concrete forms can make this crucial step a lot easier.
Insulated concrete forms, or ICF as it is known, will help
take your home or business building project to new
levels.
3. What Are Concrete Forms?
Basically, insulated concrete forms are construction
panels made from expanded polystyrene insulation.
These panels are stacked to help build the walls and
foundation of your structure.
Rebar is added for stability, then concrete is poured in
to finish it off. Builders can use the ICF process in
houses, hotels, townhomes, churches and many other
types of structures.
4. Construction Speed
One benefit of concrete forms is speed. Five different
construction steps are combined into one, which helps
get the structure up faster without sacrificing quality.
The five steps are:
• Insulation
• Structure
• Sound barrier
• Vapor and air barrier
• Fastening strips
5. Construction Strength
If you live in an area where high winds, earthquakes or
heavy snow are factors, the strength of concrete forms
will provide you with important benefits.
Insulated concrete forms will increase the overall
stability of the structure, which is a must for anyone who
lives in areas of extreme weather. A stronger house
means fewer repairs and added safety for those inside.
6. Financial Savings
Financial savings is a driving force for almost anything,
and a primary reason people are initially drawn to
concrete forms. Homeowners realize savings on their
energy bills, repairs and insurance claims.
Builders also realize savings by using concrete forms.
The speed and efficiency of construction results in lower
labor costs and there is also savings over traditional
building materials.
7. Energy Savings
When concrete forms are used in a house, warm air
stays inside during the winter and cool air stays inside in
the summer. The insulating qualities of the panels
ensure that you don’t waste energy in any season.
Energy bills are a concern for all homeowners, so
finding a process that will help save in that area is
welcome news. Make sure to ask if you qualify for any
rebates due to decreased energy usage.
8. Environmentally Friendly
Along with the environmental impact of using your
furnace less, the entire ICF process is considered
‘Green Building’. The process, materials, and results all
fall within the environmentally friendly category.
The design of ICF homes allows for larger window
openings and more natural light without using more
materials or additional framing.
9. Reduced Noise
If you live in a noisy area or are just sensitive to outside
noise, concrete forms will make your indoor life more
peaceful.
The panels absorb sounds so they are muffled or gone
altogther by the time they get to you. Of course, noise
will also stay inside if you enjoy playing loud music or
engaging in other activities that tend to be noisy.
10. References
ARXX Corporation is a leader in concrete forms
. They are located at 800 Division St Cobourg,
ON K9A 5V2 +1 800-293-3210.