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Smart Home Builders In Calgary Choose Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)

Author: Smart Web
by Smart Web
Posted: Dec 24, 2013

Building an affordable, energy-efficient home to withstand an average Alberta winter requires using materials not normally found in local construction. Insulated concrete forms, known as ICFs, are perfect for creating a strong foundation that is both cost-effective and energy-efficient. With the help of energy-conscious home builders in calgary, homeowners can experience the benefits of these materials.

How does It work?

The ICF system uses blocks that consist of two insulating panels connected by a framework. When building a home, the builder will stack each block up to create the insulated concrete form. When complete, it creates two walls of insulation with a cavity in between. After adding rebar for extra strength, the builder pours concrete into this cavity. Once it cures, you have a wall that consists of solid poured concrete encased in insulation.

ICFs are not new technology. The basic concept developed in the years after World War II when european builders needed a cost-effective method for rebuilding damaged structures. Over time, the materials used in the forms changed, but the concept remained the same.

Home builders in calgary know the benefits of ICFs

Homeowners and builders both love the benefits of insulated concrete forms. Here are a few highlights:

  • Comfortable - The insulation built into the forms creates a warm, comfortable environment inside the structure. With no gaps, the interior space experience less temperature differences.
  • Quiet - The insulation deadens interior sounds and absorbs noice from outside to make the interior space as quiet as possible.
  • Strong - An ICF wall is more than 10 times stronger than a standard wood-frame wall. This structure withstands the worst Alberta winters without hesitation.
  • Safe - The insulation and concrete walls offer protection against high wind, driving rain, and fire while also being termite and rot resistant.
  • Easy - This kind of form makes construction easier on the builder and the homeowner. It is also a better investment than standard building methods.

What do home builders in calgary say about ICFs and their costs?

Among some home builders in calgary residents will find resistance to the idea of using ICFs. These builders have set methods of building foundations and they don't want to change. They will often tell those who want to use the forms that is it is too costly.

The reality is the opposite. on average, using ICFs costs between 5 and 6 per cent more than doing standard wood-frame construction. That small bit of extra cost is easily made up in lower energy bills through the life of the home. The quiet, comfortable living inside is just a bonus.

If you want to learn more about insulated concrete forms and how you can use them in your new home, contact fine line homes. When assessing home builders in calgary, people need to look for one who adopts the best materials to create custom-built, energy-efficient, dream homes. Fine line does just that. Let's talk about your home dreams.

Calgary custom home builder residents will find resistance to the idea of using ICFs. Read more details about calgary home builder.

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Author: Smart Web

Smart Web

Member since: Dec 05, 2013
Published articles: 493

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