Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) are rigid foam forms that hold concrete during curing and remain in place as insulation for concrete walls. ICF walls have high thermal resistance and provide backing for interior and exterior finishes. ICF construction yields very strong, energy efficient, and quickly built walls that are ideal for resisting hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires. Different ICF systems create walls with varying concrete thickness patterns. While ICF material and installation costs more initially than traditional framing, the walls provide long-term energy savings and protection.

1. Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) Insulated concrete forms are rigid plastic foam forms that hold concrete in place during curing and remain in place afterwards to serve as thermal insulation for concrete walls.

3. These systems create walls that have a high thermal resistance.

4. They also provide a backing for drywall on the inside, as well as stucco, siding, or brick for the outside. http://www.monsterconstructors.com/img/icf-walls.jpg

6. Excellent insulating qualities.

7. Easy to build radius walls, which are problematic with conventional wood framing.

8. Virtually no worksite cutting, which minimizes waste. This saves money and is a green building practice.

10. A grid system creates walls using a waffle pattern. The concrete is thicker at some points than others.

14. Severe weather resistance

15. Lower insurance premiums

16. Faster construction time

17. Insect resistant

18. Significant exterior noise reduction

19. Four times the fire resistance of wood-framed homes

20. Environmentally friendly (Using ICF blocks to construct a 2,000 square foot home will save almost 50 trees)