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Insulated Concrete Forms
A system of stackable blocks of expanded polystyrene that are filled with concrete and reinforcing as required, resulting in a strong, well-insulated wall.
Why we like Insulated Concrete Forms
It eliminates traditional formwork for concrete, is very strong (good for hurricane zones) and provides good insulation.
How Green is it?
It is marketed as a "green" product but its only green aspect is the insulation value—insulation saves money and energy. (although there is an ICF product, Durisol, which is made from recycled wood chips).
Cons of Insulated Concrete Forms
(author's note: my position on ICFs is controversial and a lot of reputable builders and writers about design disagree with me.) I have written in TreeHugger:
Above grade, the use of ICFs is questionable. They are serious architectural overkill- the up-front carbon load is astounding, and at the end of their life they are good for nothing but landfill. An equivalent insulating value can be achieved without such massive use of carbon and hydrocarbon intense materials. ICFs are energy efficient for the occupant, solid and strong, and useful for foundations. However I think we are past the point where anything that saves a little money on heating is called green, the issues are bigger than that now. In such a world, polystyrene and concrete sandwiches are not green.
Where Can I Buy it?
Everywhere in North America
What Does it Cost?
All over the map. When I used to build, ICFs cost about 25% more for basements, but you got much better insulation than pouring a concrete wall and then insulating the interior, and you didn't lose as much space. Most quotes for ICF basements do not include the drywall that should be added to the interior as the stuff is combustible and the fumes are highly toxic.
