Expert Advice on Green Buildings

Insulated Concrete Forms

Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) are pre-formed panels, planks and/or blocks made of foam insulation that are used to hold concrete in place to cure after it is poured. ICFs not only hold concrete in place during curing, but also serve as permanent insulation once in place. Insulated concrete forms provide backing for drywall on the inside of buildings and for exterior treatments such as brick, lap-siding and/or stucco. Walls incorporating ICFs typically deliver higher R-values (between R-17 and R-26) than conventional wood or metal frame construction. Additional green building benefits may include partial recycled content composition and contribution to a variety of credits in the LEED green building rating system.

Insulated Concrete Forms: Will They Contribute Towards a LEED Certification?

Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) may contribute to earning several LEED points, including Optimize Energy Performance, Recycled Content and Regional Materials.
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Maximize your Building Envelope’s Energy Efficiency with Insulation

There are three different types of heat transfer: conductive, convective and radiative. Proper insulation will help minimize energy (heat) loss through the building envelope via conductive heat transfer.
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Geothermal Research: What to Consider with Geothermal Heat Pump System?

Erika asks: How can we best ensure that the home can be efficiently and easily upgradeable to geothermal in the near future?
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Why Insulating Concrete Forms are Key for Green Buildings

Why are Insulating Concrete Forms important for green buildings and LEED Certification?
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