ICF & Sustainability

ICF Sustainability

Why is ICF sustainable?

In the previous post we’ve already covered the main idea behind Insulated Concrete Forms. Now, we want to dive deeper into what makes it so sustainable.

We’re proudly working with Amvic as our main supplier of ICF, so we’re providing the data in relation to Amvic’s insulated concrete forms.

1. Reducing harmful emissions

To produce ICF, Amvic uses steam and cold water, and avoids all harmful chemicals like CFC’s, HCFC’s and formaldehyde. This allows us to eliminate off-gassing and reduce the amount of harmful emissions.

2. Using recycled materials

Amvic’s ICF webs are created with 100% post-industrial recycled polypropylene. This means that 60% of the ICF block is made with recycled materials. 

3. Minimizing waste

When building with ICF, your project can generate as little as 1% construction waste. ICF wall systems contribute 20 points to the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) ratings.

4. Increasing thermal efficiency 

Wood-frame homes suffer from various issues that cause energy loss during the winter. ICF on the other hand has multiple layers of continuous insulation, creating an airtight envelope reducing air leakage, along with the high thermal resistance of the material, ICF houses make for a significantly more energy efficient building. The energy savings compared to the construction cost, gives an estimated 10-12 year return on investment.

5. Comfortability 

Not just because you don’t have to have your AC or heating on as often, but also because ICF reduces outside air filtration, eliminating a fair bit of dust and allergens while also providing 5 times the sound insulation than traditional houses. Making it perfect for city living.

6. Increasing durability

ICF houses are more durable and can resist up to 4 hours of fire testing, significant temperature changes, and even hurricanes:

7. Increasing life cycle

Studies have shown that the operational energy use of a home accounts for approx. 90 percent of its environmental impact throughout its lifetime. A 2014 study compared the energy performance of an ICF house vs. a wood-framed house. 

It found the following:

• The life cycle performance of ICF homes was better after an assumed life cycle of 70 years than with a traditional wood-frame house.
• ICF homes resulted in a total energy use reduction of between 4.8% and 12.7%, depending on geographical location and climate.

Another study conducted at the University of Tennessee generated similar conclusions.

Additional points:

• Less potential for installation problems (when done with a right team, though – check out our post about importance of finding the right contractor)
• ICF are very lightweight and will reduce the fatigue of the installation crew.
• ICF will not rot or rust.
• ICF homes can be designed in any style. They also can work well together with any of the traditional exterior finishes such as vinyl, wood siding, stucco and brick.
• ICF allows less than one-third as much sound as ordinary walls.
• 25-50% energy savings!

Give us a call today to discuss how we can make your project more sustainable!