Using insulated concrete forms basically covers a handful of building steps in one, which reduces the workload and expenses of builders and contractors. Here are three benefits of ICF construction for the homeowner:
Energy Savings
Once insulated concrete forms are in place and the home is complete, the homeowner will enjoy an energy-efficient house. Aside from providing insulation, the panels also provide a vapor barrier and air barrier. The result is a home where heat stays in and cold air stays out in the winter, and vice versa in the summer. For the homeowner, heating and cooling costs are substantially lower, which is enough to make anyone smile. Since the walls are taking on a good portion of the workload, the furnace and air conditioning can be off more often, making ICF an eco-friendly building option, as well. Depending on where you live, you may even get some sort of incentives to run your furnace less throughout the year. Make sure you ask if you’re eligible for any money back or other bonuses for using less energy in your home.
Noise Reduction
Something else that insulated concrete forms keeps out is noise. They aren’t sound proof, but general noise is reduced, which makes for a more peaceful home life, especially if you live in a busy area.
Neighborhood noise can be quite distracting and frustrating when you want nothing more than quiet. People with small kids or who work shift work appreciate the noise reducing qualities of ICF construction.
Of course, if it keeps noise out it will also keep noise in, which is a benefit if you like to play loud music or entertain a lot. You can feel comfortable turning up the volume a few notches without having to worry about your neighbors knocking on the door.
Stronger Structure
Luckily, most homeowners don’t have to deal with the dangers of extreme weather, but if you live in an area that does, ICF will help. Building with insulated concrete forms improves the stability and overall strength of your home. This means that pressure from outside forces such as wind, won’t have as much of an effect on your house. Houses built with insulated concrete forms offer greater wind resistance, seismic strength and fire resistance than traditionally built structures. This means that hurricanes, earthquakes and snowstorms will inflict less damage than on a house that didn’t use ICF construction. A stronger house means fewer repairs, a longer lifespan and fewer insurance claims. It also means that the people who are living inside that mean the most to you will be safe from whatever is happening on the outside.
Arxx Corporation is the industry leader in ICF Construction with over 100,000 projects and square footage of over 140 million. Arxx Corporation has great experience in insulated concrete form.