Why we recommend ICF Foundations Energy Efficiency
The expanded polystyrene (EPS) panels used in ICF provide an insulation R-value of 20. When this is combined with concrete thermal mass, temperature fluctuations inside the home are considerably minimized. This highly effective combination greatly reduces the amount of energy required for heating and cooling.
When used in conjunction with with other high quality systems such as windows and roofing, homeowners have historically experienced an average of approximately 30-50% savings on heating and air conditioning costs annually. In addition, Drafts and hot and cold spots are virtually eliminated and a room's temperature remains consistent, providing exceptional comfort.
We offer Zero Energy Walls on all of our Timber Frame, Post and Beam, and Cedar Log homes.
Energy Efficient Financing & Lower Insurance Rates
ICF foundation owners in the United States may also enjoy indirect cost savings from flexible financing through energy efficient mortgages.
Due to the increased resistance to natural disasters, ICF foundations may also qualify for reduced insurance rates.
Federal Tax Credits
Since the EPS insulation in ICF foundations meets 2000 IECC & Amendments under the United States Energy Policy Act of 2005, Amvic home owners can qualify for an IRS tax credit up to $500.
Lasting Value
Over time, ICF foundations become stronger, sturdier and require much less repair and maintenance than conventionally built homes. As a result, they retain their value for a longer period of time. ICF foundations are built to last and get stronger every day.
Sound Barrier
Insulated concrete forms provide exceptional sound attenuation. While a wood framed house has a sound transmission class (STC) rating of 36-38, an ICFs foundation has an STC rating of 50+ which corresponds to a reduction in over two thirds of transmitted noise. With ICF foundations, you will always enjoy peace and quiet in your home.
Superior Insulation
ICF system replaces commonly used fiberglass insulation with expanded polystyrene (EPS). Traditional fiberglass insulation is a network of intertwined fibers which allows air to move though the gaps in the insulation.
ICFs on the other hand consist of closed plastic cells that together with concrete walls prevent air movement creating an airtight seal around the entire perimeter of a building. ICF is the premium insulation choice for your long-term comfort.
High Indoor Air Quality
The use of EPS insulation in ICF eliminates all air borne glass fibers and insulation settlement caused by fiberglass insulation. Also, the impermeable walls prevent the entry of dust, pollens and pollution.
ICF foundations provide the highest indoor air quality and qualify for Enviro-home status in Canada (the highest possible air quality rating given to an occupied shelter).
Superior Structure
Unlike conventional foundations where walls and floors loosen and shift over time creating warps and creaks, an ICF foundation will remain straight and quiet making your home more comfortable.
Wind and Storm Resistant
ICFs are constructed with reinforced concrete, which tremendously increases strength and maximizes resistance to high winds and storms. In addition, drafts typically found where conventional floor joists rest on foundation walls, are considerably reduced due to the system's unique design.
Fire Resistant
ICFs are manufactured using only approved raw material bead with flame-retardant agents and have a 3 hour fire rating. Consequently, ICF foundations provide much greater fire.
Mold Resistant
ICF foundations virtually eliminate this problem since they are constructed using the highly effective combination of non organic materials, EPS and concrete.
Insect Prevention
Since there is no food value for insects in the ICF system, the possibility of structural damage due to insects like termites is entirely eliminated. Also, insects cannot penetrate the concrete core of an ICF wall and therefore cannot enter your home.
Reduced Emissions
One of the major issues we are faced with today is global warming, which is negatively affecting the environment and weather patterns worldwide. Global warming is a direct result of harmful gas emissions into the earth's atmosphere.
An ICF foundation may reduce energy consumption on average by 30-50% monthly, which translates to an equivalent reduction in harmful emissions. ICF products can generate as little as 1% construction thus, greatly reducing land filling which produces methane emissions. Furthermore, steam and cold water os used to produce ICFs.
No CFC's, HCFC's, formaldehyde or any chemicals are used in the manufacturing process and no off-gassing is present.
Saves Trees
Worldwide deforestation adds 1-2 billion metric tons of carbon to the atmosphere annually! In order to protect our atmosphere and ourselves, it is essential to reduce the number of trees we cut down. Every ICF foundation saves several trees, which absorb carbon dioxide and give us oxygen. Do your part, build with ICF.
Recycled Materials
ICF webs are manufactured using recycled polypropylene. This means that over 60% of the weight of an ICF block is comprised of recycled materials.
