Insulated Concrete Form Construction

The environment is very important to us at Rain Creek Construction. By keeping up on the latest trends, we are able to build and develop homes and communities in the greenest way possible. This could include recycled products, environmentally friendly materials, and make homes as energy efficient as possible.

Using insulated concrete form (ICF) construction on our homes is one of the ways we’re improving our homes. Although this technology has been around for decades, widespread use has been hampered by a lack of awareness, which in turn affected building codes and industry standards. However, ICF is now an accepted use of construction in both commercial and residential applications.

Updated building codes are one of the reasons ICF construction is becoming more commonplace. Energy efficiency and natural disaster resistant codes are much stronger than they were just a few years ago, and ICF are a tremendous help in both areas.

How Insulated Concrete Form Construction Works

Like the name indicates, concrete is poured into interlocking insulated forms. The forms can be made of several types of materials, including polystyrene and polyurethane foam panels that fit together like large Lego pieces. These panels add a layer of insulation to both the exterior and interior walls, provide soundproofing, improve indoor air quality, and can easily accommodate wiring and plumbing. The forms also act as backing for drywall and other finishes on interior walls as well as backing for exterior finishes, such as stucco or siding.

The panels are held together by frames for a consistent width. As the forms are put together, rebar is added for additional strength – a common practice whenever concrete is used. Once the forms, frames and rebar have been added, the concrete is poured.

This process is used not only in the foundation of the house, but walls, floors, and even roofs as well. Stronger than wood framed construction, these ICF walls are also resistant to fire and water damage. These walls are also a formidable pest deterrent; while the foam may be chewed through by insects or vermin, the tunneling comes to an end once they reach the concrete.

Providing strength, durability, and energy efficiency, ICF construction – when used by experienced professionals – is ideal for the Pacific Northwest climate. And, because the forms are made to quickly put together, ICF can even cut down on construction time. For more information about ICU construction, contact Rain Creek Construction today.