Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) is an lightweight polystyrate form that allows quick on site assembly before adding the steel and concrete. ICF blocks solid, monolithic concrete core is stronger than other building systems and provides a greater thermal mass, significantly increasing energy efficiency and strength. The costs of building with ICF are significantly higher than typical wood or block construction but long term savings for the homeowner are substantial.
Green Building practices result in energy-efficient, healthier and environmentally sustainable residential buildings and commercial construction. One of the priorities of green building is "the practice of increasing the efficiency of buildings and their use of energy, water, materials, and reducing building impacts on human health and the environment, through better siting, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and removal — the complete building life cycle."
