“Insulating concrete forms (ICFs) result in cast-in-place concrete walls that are sandwiched between two layers of insulation material. …ICFs, are forms used to hold fresh concrete that remain in place permanently to provide insulation for the structure they enclose. Their history dates back to after World War II, when blocks of treated wood fibers held together by cement were used in Switzerland. In the 1940s and 1950s, chemical companies developed plastic foams, which by the 1960s allowed a Canadian inventor to develop a foam block that resembles today’s typical ICFs. ”
Advantages
Insulating concrete forms provide benefits to builders and building owners alike.
Owners appreciate:
- strong walls
- disaster resistance and safety
- mold, rot, mildew, and insect resistance (below grade can require termite protection)
- sound-blocking ability
- overall comfort
- energy efficiency and resultant cost savings
Contractors and builders like:
- fast, easy construction
- flexibility
- light weight for easy shipping and erection
- compatibility with carpenter trades
- ability to meet higher energy code mandates with less complicated construction
