A guide by the Insulating Concrete Formwork Association
Is an insulated solid wall construction method like ICF cost-effective and what about the cost of maintenance?
One of the first questions we’re always asked is, what are the ICF construction costs. Let’s be honest, when choosing a build material, it’s one of the first questions most of us ask. If it’s too expensive, then it’s not going to be the right system for you. Of course, upfront cost is one factor to consider but you also need to factor in other variables. This includes whether it brings the project in on time, delivers within budget and provides everything on your wish list. Choose an insulated solid wall construction method like ICF and it can deliver multiple costs savings for your project.
Materials
A common misconception with ICF is that build costs will be higher in comparison to traditional methods. With the recent revision of Part L of the Building Regulations, they have become even more cost competitive as the requirements of insulation, airtightness and cold bridging are inherent to the basic ICF structure.
When comparing the direct material costs, recent rises over the last few years have seen ICF become an increasingly competitive option.
ICF Construction Costs
Cost savings come into their own when you head on site. With ICF, you construct the wall by stacking the blocks which then lock into place through a raised edge profile.
Walls are typically built to first-floor height and may require propping or additional reinforcement depending on the design and the system. Concrete is then poured into a central cavity and once set construction continues to the next floor.
ICF Construction Costs – On-site cost savings:
ICF systems typically require fewer deliveries in comparison to traditional materials.
ICF material lead times are short with ICF Members holding stock for delivery within 48 hours.
The simplicity of the system, combined with an experienced installer, speeds up the build programme.
The insulating property of the blocks allows progress to continue through winter with the ability to assemble and cast concrete in most weather conditions.
It typically takes fewer contractors to build an insulated solid wall structure when compared to traditional build methods.
Reduction in heavy plant equipment.
The combination of factors can result in the completion of a straightforward single-storey in as little as two days. This typically saves up to 60% on labour costs.
Homeowner Savings
Once they have moved in, the homeowner can achieve cost saving in three ways:
Energy Savings
The insulated, monolithic concrete core creates an airtight structure with exceptionally low U-values and excellent thermal mass. These factors can help reduce the energy used to heat or cool a building. Monitored energy usage of a semi-detached 4-bedroom home with a basement and a useful floor area of 110m2 demonstrates heating and hot water costs are on average £250 per year which equates to less than £5 per week (as of March 2022).
Home Maintenance
With ICF, the insulating material of the formwork encases the concrete. This has the benefit of letting the concrete set quickly but cure very slowly and continue to gain strength. Tests show a concrete block typically has a strength of seven newtons. Whereas an ICF building is around five times stronger at typically 35 newtons. This offers multiple benefits to homeowners. The structure will need very little maintenance over its lifetime with only the cladding requiring work.
Lifespan
This same strength can also contribute to a longer lifespan for the structure. BBA certifications show that ICF structure will have a service life of no less than 60 years if the design is per the manufacturer’s specifications. However. it is widely understood that the lifespan of an Insulated Concrete Formwork property easily extends to more than a hundred years.
Contact Us
Interested to find out more about ICF construction costs and how it can help you save money on your next build? Get in touch today!
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