Finding the best materials for a custom home design isn’t always easy due to the variety of options available. However, more builders are now choosing insulated concrete forms due to their numerous benefits, improving energy efficiency, saving time, or offering additional protection. The market for these green building materials is only expected to continue to grow soon. Learning more about the many benefits of insulated concrete forms is essential if you are planning to build a new home.
Understanding Insulated Concrete Forms
Insulated concrete forms are used to frame homes and other structures. These form systems are quickly built on-site, as contractors pour concrete into the forms to create the structure for a house. Two foam blocks are also constructed only a few inches apart, as they often include plastic webbing to help stabilize the forms and provide insulation. Using insulated concrete forms is excellent for below and above-ground work. It’s also perfect for multi-story homes.
Here is an overview of the advantages of insulated concrete forms for your next house.
High-Performance Building Materials
One of the main reasons to consider insulated concrete forms is that they can significantly lower your monthly utility bill. These high-performance building materials are designed to make your home feel more comfortable due to their airtight seal. One study even showed that insulated concrete forms helped to reduce 60% of energy loss in walls. Over time, these savings can rapidly add up and make a big difference in helping you save money on your power bill.
Enhanced Comfort
An added benefit of insulated concrete forms is that it allows you to stay comfortable with consistent temperatures. You don’t have to worry about any unexpected drafts due to the design of these forms. Another reason to consider insulated concrete forms is that it helps to reduce outside noise. You can easily relax with your family indoors without constantly dealing with noisy interruptions. Using insulated concrete forms for your attic is also a great way to maintain comfort, as it will feel like any other room in your house.
Greater Durability
Building a house with insulated concrete forms also provides much greater durability. The foam boards and the plastic webbing are highly durable, as they will easily last a long time. Of course, concrete is also strong and durable, as you will have much greater peace of mind knowing insulated concrete forms will last. You also won’t have to spend money on costly repairs, which is why these green building materials are a great choice for homeowners.
Hurricane Protection
Staying proactive against hurricanes is a must for anyone living near the ocean. Hurricanes can cause widespread damage to homes, so insulated concrete forms are an excellent option for reinforcing your house. These green building materials aren’t only great against hurricanes and have a much higher fire rating than wood-frame walls. Insulated concrete forms are mold-resistant, as you won’t have to worry about mold or mildew issues by using high-performance building materials.
Quicker and Easier Build Process
Working with insulated concrete forms is also much easier compared to other options. Contractors can quickly build nearly any custom home design without the need for as many workers while still requiring a lesser amount of total labor hours. Choosing to build a home with insulated concrete forms is a great way to stay on schedule without worrying about any costly delays. Builders can work on these homes during rainy conditions to ensure everything stays on track.
Variety of Design Options
Insulated concrete forms give you the flexibility to choose from practically any custom home design. Houses of all sizes are great with these forms. Choosing to use these green building materials won’t have to worry about being limited in your home style. Contractors can easily use these products while building your dream home, and you can enjoy all of the many benefits of using insulated concrete forms.
Why Contractors Prefer Insulated Concrete Forms
Many building contractors choose to specialize in insulated concrete forms due to their benefits. These LEED-certified homes are an excellent choice for anyone looking to lower their utility bill. Specializing in high-performance building materials is also a great way for contractors to attract more customers.
Closing Thoughts
Building a house with insulated concrete forms is a great choice that offers many benefits. These green building materials are a fantastic way to save money on your power bill while providing much-needed hurricane protection. These LEED-certified homes also offer the highest energy star standards to ensure you stay comfortable at all times of the year. Now is a great time to consider a custom home design while building a house with insulated concrete forms.