Print this page
| Construction Insulating Concrete Forms for better foundations Another example is the use of insulating concrete forms (ICFs) that do plain concrete foundations one better - or rather, two better, by giving you two built-in layers of foam insulation. ICFs are basically forms for poured concrete walls that stay in place as a permanent part of the wall assembly. The forms, made of foam insulation, are either pre-formed interlocking blocks or separate panels connected with plastic tiles. The left-in-place forms not only provide a continuous insulation and sound barrier, but also a backing for drywall on the inside, and stucco, lap siding, or brick on the outside. Its properties are believed to account for the amazing 25% to 50% energy savings of ICF versus wood or steel-framed homes. |
|
|
|
|
|
Print this page
|
|
|
|
|
|