ICF Benefits |
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What are the major benefits in using an ICF? |

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1. Energy Efficiency
With the combination of
a solid concrete core in full contact with an
interior and exterior insulation panel, a super
energy efficient wall is created protecting the
indoor air temperature. A “heat sink” is created
from the thermal mass of the concrete which is now
very difficult to penetrate. The total wall system
is greater than the sum of its parts, reducing air
leakage and increasing the “R” Performance to 40+.
Owners enjoy energy savings up to 70%.
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2. Safe
An ICF wall is also a
superior structural combination of concrete and
steel. When compared to stick framed buildings, an
ICF wall offers greater protection from high winds
in hurricane and tornado areas and from the often
dangerous projectiles hurled during these storms.
The strong “bond beams” created within the walls
from the steel rebar protect in earthquake and
mudslide prone areas stabilizing the structure when
the ground has shifted or fallen.
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3. Quiet
ICF walls provide an
STC rating of 50 or greater when combined with other
sound reduction materials. This creates a quiet
environment from external noise in high traffic
areas, high wind areas or other noisy neighborhoods
dealing with trains, airports, etc. Conversely, ICF
walls also offer sound protection from within, as is
necessary in music and sound studios.
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4. Healthy
One of the great
concerns in older homes today is mold and mildew
found growing behind drywall, in the attic and in
basements. ICF walls eliminate the moisture commonly
experienced seeping through concrete block or
conventional poured concrete walls and condensation
commonly found in stick framed homes. Expanded
Polystyrene is a safe material without glues and
does not off-gas Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)
commonly found in material such as form oil release
agents, plywood and chip board. Persons suffering
from such allergies can feel relief.
Link to Healthy Home
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5. Fast & Reliable
When using an ICF, you are
getting 5 steps in one; structural superior walls,
super insulation, strapping/studs, air and moisture
barrier, completed professionally. This replaces
concrete block, conventional poured concrete, stick
framing, exterior sheathing, house wrap, plastic
wrap and insulation. Depend on one crew including a
certified contractor to quickly perform all these
tasks in one step. For your peace of mind,
IntegraSpec® demands that any
installation of their product include supervision by
a certified installer. |
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