ICF CONSTRUCTION Halifax NS
ICF Contractor Halifax NS
Insulated Concrete Forms (aka ICFs) first appeared right around the end of the 2nd World War. They’re designed to hold concrete in place inside these small foam blocks, which in turn provides the benefit of insulation.
This increases the energy efficiency of your home or business.
Studies have shown people who build their homes with this type of a product, see a savings on their heating and cooling in the 20%- 50 % range.
That is significant, especially in this day and age when going green is the direction we’re heading in, and not to mention the rising cost of energy used to heat and cool our homes throughout the year.
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Benefits of ICFs
- 58% greater R- value. This is the measurement of how well the insulation can resist heat flow (leakage). The higher the value the better, but that usually comes with a higher cost.
- 43% more effective in energy savings than a wood-frame wall
- More durable and strong, being used for low-rise residential and commercial buildings
- Hurricane and Natural Disaster Events resistant. Again, because produce thicker walls, the structure is stronger than a wood frame construction and can better withstand the elements we have here on the East Coast.
- Approximately 14% cheaper than a poured concrete wall.
- With minimal maintenance because the foam doesn’t degrade, a ICF constructed building can easily last over 100 years.
- Light weight for easy transportation
- Easy, fast construction
- Flexibility in sizing and design
- Easy to finish with a variety of materials and looks for both on the exterior and the interior walls
Typically, the ICF blocks are 16 inches high and 48 inches long. The internal cavity is in the range of 6-8 wide on the average, but can be customized to any size as required. The foam faces on either side of the block can also be customized as required, but normally we have a thickness between the range of 1-7/8 inches to 2-3/4 inches. These dimensions will produce a ICF wall of about 12 inches thick.
The thing to consider at this point is the exterior and interior finishes you may want to consider. This will also add to the thickness of the wall, based on material, functionality and desired aesthetics. One of the advantages this provides for inhabitants is the depth of the door surrounds and windows are automatically wider than in a traditional frame construction, which is a feature homeowners seem to really appreciate.
If you’re considering using ICFs for your next construction project, pick up the phone and give us a call. We’re the local experts in ICF construction and would be very happy to discuss your options, and answer any questions you may have. Call 902-700-6102
We also specialize in new concrete patios to enhance your new ICF walls.