Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) is a quick and practical method for building highly insulated structural walls for any type of building. With a proven worldwide track record of over 30 years, insulating concrete formwork (ICF) systems have the flexibility to suit almost any design requirement.   The thermal insulation properties of building products from mineral wool to windows are usually measured using 'u-values'. This refers to the ease with which heat moves through the material - lower values indicate better insulation properties. ICF records very low u-values - 0.30/Wm²K on the standard form, with up to 0.11/Wm²/K on thicker forms - ideal for zero energy buildings.

How does ICF work?

ICF is essentially a system of interlocking polystyrene blocks with a cavity in the centre into which concrete is poured. The specially designed locking system not only ensures that the stack is stable before concrete is poured and has set, but also works with the concrete to ensure that almost no air or moisture can pass through the wall. Once set, the concrete becomes a high strength structure and the polystyrene formwork remains in place as thermal insulation. The building process is quick, tidy and precise, with lower labour and equipment requirements than alternative methods.  

How versatile is ICF?

ICF can be used to achieve almost any design aspiration from stylish and modern apartments to in-character extensions to old country cottages. Take a look at our gallery if you aren’t convinced. Creative design is encouraged by the availability of a comprehensive range of components, complemented by the option to incorporate reinforcement for basement and multi-storey projects. The flexibility of the system makes it practical to co-ordinate different types of floors, roofs, windows etc with ICF, just as one would in a block or brick built structure. Almost any type of internal and external finish can be applied to make your building unique. ICF is even suitable for earth-sheltered and underground homes. Why not take a look at the British Earth Sheltering Association’s website? Click here.
 

An ICF building in fact usually costs around the same as one built in the standard fashion. ICF brings with it a host of advantages over ‘ordinary’ methods though. With fewer components than would be required for traditional construction, it is easier to organise and co-ordinate the building process. Build time and labour costs are much reduced, more than compensating for the higher material cost. At the end of the project, the result is a superior home with far reduced heating costs and no condensation build-up, even in kitchens and bathrooms, which reduces maintenance costs and increases comfort.

How established is ICF and the idea of Insulated Concrete Formwork?

Insulated Concrete Formwork was first developed in Germany in the 1950s, where it remains popular. In the US and Canada it accounts for a significant and increasing proportion of new building work. Thanks to the emphasis on building ‘green’ homes and to spiralling energy costs, the UK market is also expanding. From a foundation in the self-build sector, ICF in the UK is now becoming more widespread as housing associations and large building companies take an interest. It remains one of only four walling systems approved for domestic basements. One such ICF system is NUDURA - NUDURA built homes have withstood some of mother natures worst storms along the eastern seaboard of the U.S., Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina along with states such as, Texas,  Mississippi and  Louisiana.  NUDURA Insulated Concrete Forms can withstand winds of up to 250 mph.  This strength comes from the steel reinforced concrete core.  The system has been progressively improved and developed to satisfy the very best worldwide standards of energy efficiency, and the recognised need for improved building techniques. NUDURA is a member of the ICF Association, a trade body. To visit their website, click here.

The Fell Partnership has been working with ICF for around fifteen years. TFP has successfully used ICF to create a traditional Devon Roundhouse, extensions to old rural properties, standard new builds and extensions, repairs to cob walls and in a host of other unusual situations. Click here for some examples. The Fell Partnership enjoys a very good relationship with ICF Products, helping us to pass on great value and service. Whether you are planning an extension, a new home, a block of flats, or a new school, are a self-builder or property developer, The Fell Partnership can, in Devon or Cornwall, offer you practical assistance in conjunction with ICF Products, or act as contractors and build your ICF building for you.




We recommend and use NUDURA ICF - we are Distributors for NUDURA ICF in the West Country.

For more information about NUDURA please click on the logo above.