Comparing Costs of ICF to Traditional Materials

So how does an ICF building stack up to its wood-frame and concrete counterparts?

Wood

ICFs eliminate the need for wood framing, structural walls, and insulation, so don’t forget to factor these savings into your estimates. Taking all this into consideration, an ICF home will cost around 5% to 10% more than a conventional wood-frame home.

Remember: In comparing costs, keep in mind that an ICF home is stronger, more comfortable, and more energy efficient than even the best insulated wood-frame building. The real savings with ICFs comes from the savings you get in heating and cooling. Don’t forget to factor in these savings when looking at ICF construction.

In recent years, concrete prices have increased, raising the total cost of ICF construction. Be sure to correctly estimate the cost of the concrete so you have an accurate estimate.

Concrete

An ICF home will cost about the same as, or even less than, a poured-in-place concrete building. The savings in labor costs and the added insulation will factor into these savings.

Compared to precast concrete blocks, ICFs will cost about 5% more due to the added costs of the poured concrete.

Buying Advice for ICFs

With so many ICF manufacturers in existence, you may find it difficult to choose one. To help narrow the list, consider the following:

Where is the manufacturer located? Choose a manufacturer as close to you as possible to reduce shipping costs.

What type of web does the manufacturer use? The web (the thing that connects the ICF block together) comes in a variety of materials. Consider only buying an ICF made with recycled plastic webbing.

What type of foam does the manufacturer use? EPS foam is the most common type used, but look for alternatives such as Rastra, made from recycled polystyrene and cement.

What is the thickness of the insulation? Some manufacturers offer thicker insulation than others. Although the thickness of the inside of the ICF doesn’t affect insulation, the thickness of the foam on the outside does. The thicker the ICF insulation, the better your energy efficiency.

What type of interlocking grid does the manufacturer use? Each manufacturer has a different type of stacking and interlocking method. Look for an ICF with interlocking blocks that will speed construction. Interlocking blocks are much easier to work with than blocks that only stack together.

Does the company offer any technical support or training? Look for a company with helpful customer service to answer your technical construction questions.

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