ICF homes are an Insulated Concrete Form (ICF), and contrary to popular belief that their construction is suitable only for mild climates, they render the most protection in the most severe coastal storms.
In this article, we will examine the features of ICF homes, explore ICF variations, and build the case for energy-efficient constructions. If there is one answer to the question,
“Why should we invest in ICF housing?” The our answer is: because of unparalleled ICF advantages.
Why ICF Homes Are The Ultimate Solution for Hurricane Proof Construction.
Over the years, researchers and builders have advanced hurricane proof construction techniques without compromising the safety of the older designs. One of the more heavily debated approaches in safety construction is building with foam.
A more intricate assembly system that allows for specific parts of the building, like windows, doors, and plumbing, to be easily integrated into the panels before molding.
There’s no question concerning the strength of ICF homes and Insulating Concrete Form walls.
ICF homes are built using a mix of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam and reinforced concrete. These materials work together to form a construct that can withstand the harsh winds, flooding, and flying debris brought about by hurricanes. What does this mean? A home that can withstand extreme weather and provides assurance to its occupants.
Unmatched Wind Resistance
Traditional homes get destroyed when ICF houses experience wind speeds over 200 miles per hour. Most hurricanes range from very strong to incomprehensably weak at below 200 mph.
The concrete walls that provide protection to EPS foam plastered with stainless steel reinforces ICF houses making these dwellings helpful to those who live in areas that are prone to Category 5 hurricanes.
Saving Energy in A Smarter Way
ICF houses are not only famous for their energy saving features, but they also have foam insulating walls that aid in hurricane proof construction. The thermal barrier that helps control the home’s internal temperature reducing the use of heating or cooling.
Because of this, ICF homeowners are able to have low bills throughout the year, making ICFs a cheap option that also helps save the environment. Homes of today need to be energy efficient, and ICF technology makes this possible beyond one’s expectations.
Protection From Flooding
ICF homes are also a good option for people living in flood expensive areas. The water resistant concrete assists in keeping the walls and basement dry while preventing mold, mildew and other water damage.
Unlike ICF homes, traditional wooden homes do not have this benefit, giving them a high chance of structural failure after heavy rains and flooding.
What is Hurricane Proof Construction?
Hurricane proof construction means homes built with methods and materials that can survive a hurricane’s violent forces. It does not only include the external walls but also includes other aspects such as a wind resistant roof, a strong foundation, and windows and doors that are reinforced.
This level of protection is achieved with ICF construction that stands as one of the most effective options.
ICF homes employ a special construction technique. Walls are erecting using forms made of expanded polystyrene foam that are filled with concrete and are held with steel rebar.
The end result is a structure with foam insulating features and the strength of concrete which when built into a home stand with hurricane force winds while being extremely durable.
ICF homes do not utilize traditional wood-frame construction that can be easily damaged by intense winds or debris and instead opt for an approach that makes the home durable.
Instead, ICF homes stand incredibly strong wit some possessing concrete core that acts as robust a barrier for wind and water ensuring that the house is safe during catastrophic weather events.
Who Benefits from Hurricane Proof Construction?
ICF homes are perfect for many kinds of homeowners, especially for those residing in the storm heavy areas. But aside from storing energy and being resilient to storms, there is much more benefits.
Homeowners Ranch in Coastal Regions and Hurricane Prone Areas of the World.
Any major beneficiary for hurricane-proof construction would be a shovel ready homeowner in coastal areas especially if they live in the eye of frequent hurricane. ICF homes bestow homeowners with the peace of mind of knowing their homes are built to withstand the harshest storms.
With hurricane-proof features, the home is able to relieve property destruction, valuables loss, and most importantly, the life of people living inside the house.
Construction Thinking Home Owners.
ICF homes should be the favorite option for an environmentally friendly construction approach available for home owners eco-minded. The insulating characteristics of ICF materials leads to energy saving through providing a constant indoor climate.
This equates to lesser aid from heating and air conditioning resulting in less energy bills and lower carbon footprint. Moreover, the life span and tough nature of the ICF homes makes them sustainable means of building.
Property Developers and Builders
As ICF construction is gaining popularity because of its durable homes, property developers and builders who want to provide energy-efficient homes will benefit from it. In addition, hurricane-proof construction increases home value and is beneficial in selling homes in stormy areas. Builders can also benefit from the speed and efficiency of the ICF process, which is faster than traditional methods of construction.
How to Build a Hurricane-Proof ICF Home
One must have the appropriate planning and materials in order to build a hurricane proof home. The ICF construction option has some level of complexity but can be streamlined with proper workmanship to determine the home’s safety and strength.
Select the Right Materials
It is very important to select high quality ICF forms. The ICF forms must be composed of foam and be reinforced with steel rebar so that they can withstand the necessary forces of nature. The concrete utilized should be top-notch in order to create a strong base and walls.
Work with Skilled Builders
Building an ICF home requires some skills and knowledge. It is important to find builders who have previously worked in ICF construction. Experts will make sure that the home is built according to the local building regulations and can survive the impacts of a hurricane.
Implement Energy Saving Measures
Homes built using ICF are energy friendly, but there are even more ways to make the home save energy. Proper insulation, an airtight home, energy efficient doors and windows are a few of this home’s many energy-efficient features.
Final Thoughts
The impacts of hurricanes can be very damaging and protecting your home from there with hurricane-proof construction should be a must. The solution to this problem is ICF homes. These type of homes are the most energy efficiency solutions and, by far,
The best protection against storms because of the benefits ICF construction provides such as floods, high winds, and everything extreme weather can throw at it, while saving a lot on energy expenses during non-storm times.
If you are a property holder wishing to safeguard your place, an energy saving extremist, or a developer looking to out modernize the rest of the construction field, ICF homes are the solution. The ICFs unmatched safety and strength, coupled with energy paying efficiency makes it the future of hurricane-proof construction.
