Benefits of ICF

Why build with ICF.

Stronger, quieter, more efficient walls — built in fewer steps. Here’s what that means for your project.

01 — Energy Efficiency

Lower energy use, year-round

Continuous EPS insulation covers both faces of the concrete, with no studs to carry heat through the wall resulting in no energy loss. The concrete core also stores heat and stabilizes temperature swings, so your HVAC works less to keep the building cool or warm.

ICF Walls with IntegraSpec Les Coffrages Isolants
02 — Strength & Durability

Built for severe weather

A reinforced concrete wall resists tornado or hurricane high winds up to 400km/h (250mph), impact and moisture damage, preventing wood rot and pests from entering the walls. Walls are engineered, specified and reinforced per region, zone and climate.

ICF walls reinforced with steel rebar, IntegraSpec ICF for design professionals
03 — Fire Rated

Concrete Doesn't Burn

The concrete core prevents fire from spreading between rooms and units, which is critical for mulit-unit buildings. ICF walls have been tested and are fire-rated up to 4 hours.

ICF foundation wall filled with concrete
04 — Sound Deadening

A noticeably quieter building

The mass of concrete combined with the EPS cuts noise and sound transfer from passing through walls. Sound rated for STC 50+ or greater compared to STC 38 for an insulated wood-stud wall. 

ICF Walls Sound Proofing | TruForm ICF
05 — Comfort & Air

Steady temperatures, Healthy indoor air

An airtight wall with continuous insulation keeps interior temperatures even from floor to ceiling and wall to wall. No volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and does not support the growth of mold or mildew for a healthier and quality indoor air.

ICF Home with IntegraSpec ICF | TruForm ICF Distributor
06 — Cost & Schedule

Fewer steps, Lower Lifetime Costs

Structure, insulation, air barrier and furring constructed as one system and aseembly. Fewer trades and contractors are needed on site. Lower energy bills and low maintenance add up over the life of the building.

ICF Contractors in Toronto, ON | TruForm ICF
Side by side

ICF vs. wood frame vs.
conventionally formed concrete.

A general, qualitative comparison. Performance of conventional walls to an IntegraSpec ICF wall.

IntegraSpec ICF

Wood frame

Formed concrete

Structure
Reinforced concrete core
Dimensional lumber studs
Reinforced concrete core
Insulation
Continuous EPS on both faces, built in
Batts between studs; added exterior insulation for continuity
Added after forms are stripped
Air barrier
Monolithic poured wall
Separate membrane, taped and sealed
Concrete, plus separate insulation layer
Forms
Stay in place
Not applicable
Set up, then stripped and removed
Steps / trades
Structure, insulation and furring in one system
Framing, insulation, sheathing, wrap, vapour barrier
Forming, stripping, then insulation and furring
Attaching finishes
Screw into built-in furring strips
Fasten to studs
Strapping or framing needed
Cold-weather work
Foam insulates curing concrete
Not affected by curing
Typically needs added heat and blankets
Rot & pests
Not susceptible
Must be protected from moisture and pests
Not susceptible

Is ICF right
for your build?

We’ll let you know after discussing and reviewing your project plans. Contact us today.

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