Q: Does it cost more to build this way?

A: Typically, a home built with ICFs will cost 3% to 5% more than a comparable wood-framed home. However, much or all of this up-front cost can be recouped through lower utility bills and downsizing of heating and cooling equipment. Builders who are experienced with ICF indicate that the cost of construction with ICF will quickly narrow to the equivalent of wood frame construction when built to the same standards.

Q: What do I get?

A: Your energy bills could be reduced up to 70 percent. With this type of infrastructure, you'll also get a home that stands to be: 1. Twice as energy efficient, since there are no air spaces that allow drafts through the wall and the technology evens out the effect of external temperature swings. 2. Up to three times more sound resistant due to the double-foam, insulated concrete core. 3. Up to four times more fire resistant, since the walls are built with steel reinforced concrete and a non-toxic fire retardant. 4. Up to nine times stronger, a superior feature in high-wind, tornado, or hurricane areas. 5. Far more resistance to thermal bridging, where outside cold travels easily through walls to create uncomfortable cold spots, drafts, and mustiness.

Q: What are Insulating Concrete Forms?

A: Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) are hollow blocks or panels made of plastic foam that construction crews stack into the shape of the exterior walls of a home. Workers then add reinforcing steel and fill the gap (typically 2-6 inches) between the two layers of foam with concrete. This combination of concrete, steel, and foam creates a very strong and energy-efficient structure.

Q: Does it require more time to install ICFs?

A: No, typically experienced installers can erect entire structures in 1/3 of the time it would take by traditional means regardless of the climate. In addition, ICF construction eliminates the need for house-wrap or moisture barriers because the forms are virtually impermeable.

Q: Will ICF walls create difficulties for other sub-contractors?

A: No. Though the walls appear different than wooden framing, laborers are easily able to cut holes, chases and rectangles into ICFs with a knife or saw so that installation of mechanical systems and fastening of drywall and lap siding is a snap. The process is simply different, not difficult.

Q: What R Value can I get from a NUDURA ICF wall?

A: The aggregate R Value of a NUDURA ICF Wall, with concrete and gypsum board interior finish in place, is 22.4. We state this as a standard value across all thickness of form unit as the thermal resistance of concrete is nearly negligible. The actual R Value would have to be determined from the overall performance of the wall as a system. A performance R Value which is based on energy savings and studies of thermal resistance of an ICF wall shows that a wall of R50 is not at all uncommon.

Q: How is NUDURA a ‘Green’ building product?

A: NUDURA is Green in a number of ways. The material of the webs is 100% recycled. The material for the foam is 100% recyclable. The EPS foam emits no CFC or HCFC’s or VOC’s. Using NUDURA as opposed to traditional building methods cuts down the amount of wood used, which has become a precious commodity. By minimizing mold growth and giving a more sound proof home, your indoor comfort is increased dramatically. By reducing waste and shipping space required, NUDURA also impacts the environment in a very positive manner. These are just a few of the reasons why NUDURA ICF is an environmentally innovative material to use in your buildings.