Volumetric composition - image by @ripato
Sustainable Development requires a balance to be maintained between development and the environment. It promotes inter-generational equity, i.e. better quality of life for present and future generations. Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) do exactly just that!
ICF building structures are sustainable / green buildings that qualify for LEED certifications. They allow architects, engineers and designers to create buildings that uses fewer natural resources, are more efficient, sustainable and have a lasting value.
Recycles Raw Materials:
ICFs are hollow, lightweight forms manufactured using high density expanded polystyrene (EPS) panels which are connected by uniquely designed, 100 percent recycled polypropylene webs, making the blocks 60 percent recycled material by total weight.
During construction, the forms are stacked, braced then filled with concrete, which is manufactured with recycled material (slag) and the end product can also be recycled creating a cradle to grave type product. The steel reinforcement that is used in the ICF forms is also made from 99 percent recycled material making the overall use of insulated concrete forms a highly sustainable process.
Reduces Waste and Emissions:
ICFs reduce waste at the construction sites, any waste produced is 100 percent recyclable. They use fewer natural resources, such as gas, electricity and wood. Reducing waste is also an important factor for green building construction; Insulated Concrete Forms can generate as little as 1 percent construction waste. This greatly reduces land filling which produces methane emissions. Furthermore, ICF is manufactured without the use of any CFCs, HCFCs or chemicals. ICF construction is environment and eco-friendly and helps conserve trees too.
Energy Efficient:
ICFs offer a “5 in 1” solution that provides structural strength, insulation, vapor barrier, sound barrier and attachments for sheet rock and exterior finishes in one easy step. ICFs produce high performance buildings that are designed and constructed to minimize maintenance and repair, offer low energy consumption reducing operating costs and has the ability to continue functioning in adverse situations.
Safe and Resilient Structures:
ICFs are durable, resilient and innovative. They offer protection from fires, earthquakes, severe storms, tornados and flooding. Government led public / private programs and National Building Codes are supporting and recognizing disaster resilient building design and continuous thermal insulation which have changed from traditional construction methodologies to providing green buildings with measurable results.
ICF construction results in durable, resilient structures that are environmentally friendly and resource-efficient throughout the building’s life-cycle; from the planning, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and demolition phase. Green building ICFs construction contributes strongly to building safer communities through sustainable construction and providing a healthier way of life for years to come.
