What Is ICF? Why Build With ICFs?
The IntegraSpec Advantage
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Why Build With ICF'S?
The quickest way to address this would be to ask “Why NOT build with ICF’s?”
(ICFs offer SO MANY ADVANTAGES over conventional methods that it is often difficult to select where to begin!)
From a Design/Construction standpoint:
Structural Integrity/Sustainability- The accessibility to multiple concrete core-thicknesses (from 4”to 12”& beyond) makes ICFs the ideal choice for virtually any size structure. Properly engineered ICF structures can withstand seismic events, hazardous weather, fire, and even man-made catastrophes.
Exceptional Energy Efficiency - ICF walls offer outstanding thermal performance that greatly reduces the amount of energy loss and consumption for the overall structure. There has been much discussion in terms of R-Value when it comes to ICFs: (since the thermal mass of concrete is given no R-Value on paper) the EPS alone gives a constant R 20-R23. When the concrete’s thermal mass is considered, the wall’s performance would rival an R-40 to R-50+ rating
LEED/GREEN Friendly - Due to its constant, outstanding thermal insulating performance, zero-emissions, extremely low air-infiltration, high STC (Sound Transmission Class) rating of 50+, sustainability, low-waste factors, ease of transport etc…ICFs greatly benefit LEED/GREEN criteria for environmentally-responsible construction.
Design Versatility - the ICF method of construction allows for nearly any aesthetic to be achieved, from multiple angles to radius and curving details.
Compatible with all other methods of Construction - From the most advanced industrial flooring system, to structural beams, to the most straight-forward embed-hardware, ICFs offer easy interaction with other structural aspects of the building.
High Performance Finishes - the Type II EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) offer a consistent, high density surface that is ideal for direct-applied finishing systems such as synthetic stuccos. Often the foam can be routed and shaped to add to building aesthetics. ICFs already contain furring and are fully compatible with all other types of cladding.
To the left is an example of a Synthetic Finishing System applied directly to the ICF surface. (Notice the lines that have been etched in the EPS as an architectural detail.)
Construction Speed & Efficiency - the ICF scope acheives multiple steps in one application: