Cost
The initial costs of using ICFs rather than conventional construction techniques is sensitive to the price of materials and labor but generally building using ICF can add 3 to 5 percent in construction cost over building using wood frame. In most cases ICF construction will come in about 40% less than conventional (basement) construction because of the labor savings from combining multiple steps into one step. Above grade, ICF construction is typically more expensive, but when adding large openings, ICF construction becomes very cost effective. Large openings in conventional construction require large headers and supporting posts, whereas ICF construction reduces the cost because only reinforcing steel is needed directly around the opening.
ICF construction can allow up to 60% smaller heating and cooling units to service the same square footage which can cut the cost of the final house by an estimated $0.75 per square foot. So, the estimated net extra cost can be as much as $0.25 to $3.25. ICF homes can also qualify for green tax incentives further lowering the costs through tax credits.
ICF houses are less expensive over time as they are more energy-efficient requiring less energy to heat and cool the same size space. Additionally insurance costs can be much lower as ICF homes are much less susceptible to earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, fires, and other natural disasters. Maintenance and upkeep costs are also lessened as ICF homes do not contain wood which can rot over time.
Read more about this topic: Insulating Concrete Form
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—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)
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—Thylias Moss, African American poet. As quoted in the Wall Street Journal (May 12, 1994)