Benefits of ICF
Building with an insulated solid wall construction method like ICF is a proven way of creating a stronger, safer building. The benefits of ICF include high energy efficiency, minimal maintenance, and virtually limitless design possibilities. As a Modern Method of Construction (MMC), switching to ICF technology will offer considerable benefits when compared to traditional building methods. In terms of construction, ICF has a lot of similarities to traditional build techniques that developers and contractors will already be familiar with.
Top 10 Benefits of ICF
Benefit 1: Speed of Construction
Two facing layers of insulating material create the block, which then stack and connect to form the building wall. In the UK, EPS or Woodcrete are the most commonly available ICF systems. To create the envelope of the building, the blocks stack and interlock without the need for mortar. Concrete is then poured into a central cavity within the block. When the concrete cures, it creates an incredibly strong and airtight home.
The ICF forms are large in size which increase the speed of build. It is possible, in only a few days, to construct a standard four-room ground floor. The insulating property of the blocks allows the build to continue through winter months. It is possible to assemble and cast in most weather conditions.
Benefit 2: Simple to Design and Build
Despite their shape and size, ICF builds can support almost limitless designs. It is possible to shape the blocks to any desired wall profile, including curved walls. One advantage of using an onsite build system such as ICF is in the flexibility of the system. Due to its simplicity, changes can be made to the build up to the point when the concrete is poured. This provides a number of benefits during construction. If your site throws up unseen problems or you change your mind on the design these can usually be accommodated.
Benefit 3: Energy Efficient Build
One of the main benefits of ICF is the high levels of thermal performance. The central monolithic concrete core sits in direct contact with the insulating block to create an incredibly airtight structure. This results in a finished building that offers exceptionally low U-values and excellent thermal mass. Combined, the thermal performance of the building reduces the amount of energy used in heating and cooling the structure.
When constructed to the manufacturer’s recommendations an ICF home will typically achieve an energy efficiency rating of A. This is equal to Passivhaus standards. Monitored energy usage of a semi-detached 4-bedroom home with basement with a useful floor area of 110m2 has shown that heating and hot water costs are on average £250 per year.
Benefit 4: Sustainable Construction
One argument against using ICF is through the use of concrete which is recognised as a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. However, the emissions created during the construction of an ICF structure creates are quickly offset by the energy saving benefits over the lifetime of the building.
To improve matters further, the concrete are making moves to adapt the material . The UK Concrete’s Roadmap details how its aims to remove more carbon from the atmosphere than it produces. This includes new production methods and creating a low-carbon cement.
Using ICF for your build can help to accelerate the roadmap. If designed correctly an ICF build will produce almost no construction waste, which would have ended up in landfill. It requires fewer deliveries getting the materials to site and reduces the amount of mechanical equipment used during the build. The formwork encases the concrete which means aesthetics are not important and more waste material can be used in the mix.
Benefit 5: Longevity
With ICF, the insulating material of the formwork encases the concrete which allows it to set quickly but cure very slowly. This process enables the concrete to continue gaining strength. Tests have shown that a concrete block typically has a strength of seven newtons whereas an ICF building is around five times stronger at around 35 newtons.
This strength creates a durable building which, according to BBA certifications, will have a service life of not less than 60 years provided they are designed in accordance with manufacturers specifications. However, it is widely understood that the lifespan of ICF property easily extends to more than a hundred years.
Benefit 6: Perfect for flood risk zones
It’s this same strength that help to your building protect you from adverse weather events.
Recently, the UK has seen a rise in the number of extreme flooding episodes. If correctly designed and installed, there will be no voids in the ICF structure. When combined with the solid concrete core it creates a watertight shell. In the event of flood damage, the insulating material in the walls remains water resistant which typically avoids months of delays caused by drying out.
It is possible to design the ICF building to the relevant codes for earthquake zones and provide successful protection from heavy storms and high winds including hurricanes and tornadoes.
Benefit 7: Fire resistant build
ICF buildings naturally creates their own fire suppression system. Concrete will not burn and can withstand incredibly high temperatures. The solid concrete core in an ICF wall creates an almost impenetrable shell that contains the room and prevents fire from spreading internally or externally. Most ICF walls offer a fire protection rating of up to 4-hours.
The combinations of the formwork and concrete also ensures maximum safety. EPS forms are treated with a flame-retardant additive whereas the mineralisation process during the manufacture of a Woodcrete blocks makes them burn resistant. It is possible to enhance the fire resistance of an ICF building depending on the external finish.
Benefit 8: Reduces Maintenance
If designed and installed correctly, the airtightness of an ICF home can reduce dust or allergens infiltrating from outside to create a healthier and more comfortable living environment. The airtightness and continuous insulation of the structure prevents cold-bridging which is a major cause of condensation and mould. The density of the wall structure also provides excellent soundproofing.
Benefit 9: Recognised for Mortgage Purposes
Systems supplied by ICFA members are recognised for mortgage purposes as a standard form of construction. There are many companies that offer structural warranties, otherwise known as latent defects insurance, on buildings constructed using ICF products. It is important to include your structural warrantee company prior to commencing the build to ensure you meet your policies requirement.
As with any other building product it’s important to do your research and find the system that is right for you. Get your ICF supplier involved early in the design stage, they will have the knowledge and technical resources to support you through your build.