ICF vs. Conventional Framing
How to decide which wall system is best for you.
ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) is a wall system that uses blocks of rigid foam insulation that stack together like Lego, and concrete is poured inside of those blocks creating a solid concrete core, reinforced with steel rebar.
Conventional framing is the way most houses are built in Ontario and North America. These home are built using individual pieces of wood that are put together to form floors, walls, and roofs. ICF homes typically consist of conventionally framed floors and roof, and only the exterior walls are concrete and insulation while the interior walls are also framed with wood.
Both are great options and come with their individual pros and cons, each being better suited to different projects.
Here is a summary of some of the characteristics and benefits of each method:
Materials:
ICF Construction: Uses rigid foam forms that are filled with concrete. The foam remains in place as insulation.
Conventional Framing: Built with wooden studs, covered with sheathing (plywood or OSB) and a continuous exterior insulation board, and filled with fiberglass, cellulose, or foam insulation.
Insulation & Energy Efficiency:
ICF: Provides continuous insulation with higher R-values, making the structure more energy-efficient with better thermal performance than standard conventionally framed homes.
Conventional Framing: Insulation is installed between the studs, as well as a continuous layer outside of the framing. The amount of insulation can be adjusted to suit different situations.
Strength & Durability:
ICF: Extremely strong due to the reinforced concrete core, offering better resistance to severe weather and sound transmission. Best suited to simple shaped building but can be used for nearly any type of house.
Conventional Framing: Lighter and more flexible, easier to build complex designs. A properly detailed framed house can easily last 100+ years.
Cost:
ICF: Typically more expensive in initial costs due to materials and labor but can offer long-term savings in energy bills. The wall construction is typically about 20% more than conventional framing but over the entire project the cost difference is about 5%. Some electricians and plumbers might also charge more when using ICF as it might make it more difficult for them to run wires and plumbing where they need to.
Conventional Framing: Typically a more affordable way to build. Different wall types and details can create an extremely efficient home equal to or surpassing ICF construction but a standard construction will have a slightly lower energy efficiency.
Construction:
ICF: Can be slower to build due to the concrete pouring and curing process and can be more difficult to find reputable builders experienced in ICF. Changes are nearly impossible after the concrete has been poured. b
Conventional Framing: Generally faster and more common, with experienced builders readily available. Future changes are relatively easy.
Environmental Impact:
ICF: A typical ICF home is better insulated than a typical framed house leading to less heating & cooling costs and a reduced energy consumption. However, the construction of the house uses some of the least environmentally friendly building products; concrete and foamed plastic.
Conventional Framing: Wood is a renewable resource and is arguably the most environmentally friendly building material typically used in Ontario. With high performing details, quality flashing, and good quality finishes, framed houses can be extremely durable and as well insulated as the homeowner would like.
In the end, both systems have their place and a qualified home designer will be able to guide you to the best option for your house. While these are the two most common methods of home construction in North America, it does not mean there are not countless other options. Contact us today for more information or to discuss what is right for you!
