Concrete is one of the most versatile, durable and cost-effective materials available in construction today. One of the most widely used building materials in the world, it is also environmentally sustainable, with green credentials outperforming both steel and timber.
Insulating concrete forms (ICFs) are basically forms for poured concrete walls that stay in place as a permanent part of the wall assembly. The forms, made of foam insulation or other insulating material, are either pre-formed interlocking blocks or separate panels connected with plastic or metal ties. The forms serve two purposes: they provide a continuous insulation and sound barrier, and they serve as backing for drywall on the inside and stucco, lap siding, or brick on the outside.
Builders nationwide recognize that building with ICF means construction made simple. Known for their versatility and flexibility, ICF systems can accommodate the most popular designs. They've been used internationally for over 40 years, and the systems are accepted by all the major codes in the United States.
A certified ICF installer since 1997, Cyrus Concrete Construction knows firsthand that ICF systems are easy to use, and feature to feature, they are one of the most cost-competitive wall systems in the U.S. housing market.
But what are the consumer benefits to building with ICF?
Greater comfort & lower energy bills
ICF's combination of greater insulating effectiveness, low air filtration, and more uniform indoor temperatures accounts for 25-50% energy savings versus wood or steel-framed homes.
Peace & quiet
ICF walls allow less than 1/3 as much sound to pass through compared to ordinary frame walls filled with fiberglass
Solid, safe, & secure
ICF homes not only feel more solid, they're safer, too! Concrete homes have been proven to hold up better under extreme weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and even fires. In fact, many insurance carriers now offer discounts on home owner policies for ICF homes!
Reduced repair & maintenance costs
There are very limited adverse affects of concrete exposure to the elements. If there's less to rot or rust, there's less to repair.
Healthy... and greener!
Building with ICF is not only healthier for you in the long run - it's healthier for the environment, too. By limiting the number of building materials, you limit the amount of waste during construction. ICF homes show an almost complete absence of emissions. And because concrete is such a great insulator, ICF homes use significantly less fossil fuel for heating and cooling.
Did you know?
With ICF, you'll be able to design your concrete home with all the features possible with other construction methods. There are no limitations on size or design.
Building with ICF may cost more up front but will quickly pay for itself in long-term maintenance and energy savings. And homes with ICF construction tend to have higher resale values.
Build green
We only use Reward ICFs, so building either your foundation or your house with us offers these ecological advantages:
- The patented Reward ICFs design reduces the amount of building waste created. Building waste is 100% recyclable and lightweight, which minimizes the fossil fuels required for shipping.
- Reward Wall Systems generates no CFCs or HCFCs during manufacturing. ICFs contain no formaldehyde, unlike treated wood.
- Heating and cooling requires less energy, burning less fossil fuels.