Today’s home building is experiencing a revolution in construction technology. The introduction of the insulated concrete forms has people discussing the benefits of creating an ultra-strong concrete and foam envelope. Many believe that the conventional building technology is outdated and the new technology should be embraced immediately. Contractors are calling this new wave of construction progressive home building.

There are some disaster benefits from concrete forms such as a four hour resistance to invading flames and a resilience against 200 mph of strong winds. The ICF Construction prevents the infiltration of allergens, molds and dust so fewer people will be bothered by allergies. The energy efficiency and eco-friendliness of this system is brought up in all the marketing campaigns.

Many builders accustomed to conventional construction techniques will subcontract the pouring process. It’s important to observe the building guidelines such as confirming the blocks reach down 30 inches. The walls must extend upwards to the roof line where spray foam is added for ceiling insulation.

Once the concrete form walls are up and plumb attractive facades can be added such as stone, brick or stucco. New neighborhoods of Energy Star homes are being created as well as many new movie theaters. The homes are built in much less time than conventional homes so that the housing landscape in many communities is being redefined overnight.

The information about ICF Construction is not always factual. Many people are talking about it and the facts tend to get misinterpreted. The system is the topic of conversation nationwide but factual tips and not myths should be followed. One myth pertains to the density of the foam.

Some installers recommend that the denser the Insulated Concrete Foam the better the installation. The recommendation from the manufacturer is that when building with the denser blocks the builder risks jeopardizing their building code approvals. The denser the foam actually means the decrease in insulating properties.

Some other reminders include the fact that the walls do need to be water-proofed. The material cannot stop insect infestation unless all the steps are taken to treat the material properly. Instructions will state what the water proofing material is called and how it should be applied.

Another rumor states that no sound will penetrate the interior. This is a myth since sound will still carry through the window glazing. It will be reduced by 50% but it will not disappear. This is an improvement over conventional homes. Another myth is the inability to insure the foam. The material is insurable but mos t policies will put it under the category of masonry.

Insulated Concrete Forms have created a new trend in the building industry. Reinforced concrete is integrated into twenty-first century foam material. In 2012 new homes will be required to pass an IECC Blower Door Test where exterior walls will need 50% more insulation. Building codes will continue adjusting to the energy saving trends of the new century.

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