Builder Cuts Utility Costs By Up To 60% By Building Green

Homes constructed with ICFs (Insulated Concrete Forms), are homes built with a super insulated concrete shell, which spans from the basement floor to the eaves. This superior, insulated shell makes for more comfortable climates. These homes can be constructed more quickly while using much less lumber, helping to preserve forests. When finished, these homes use 40% - 60% less energy to operate, saving homeowners money. By consuming less energy, ICF homes put less of a demand on our environment's quickly dwindling fossil fuels.

The concrete walls of an ICF home have high thermal mass, which act as a buffer between the interior of a home and the extreme outdoor temperature 24-hours a day.
This reduces both peak and total heating and cooling loads.
The combination of high R-values, low air infiltration, and high thermal mass is believed to account for the amazing 25% to 60% energy savings of ICF versus wood or steel-framed homes.

ICF homes have a strong reputation for maintaining an even temperature. The reason for this is because of a phenomenon called thermal mass. Thermal mass can be best described as "having the ability to retain heat and give heat when necessary". In ICF homes, temperatures vary from floor to ceiling 1-2 degrees F. In traditional framed homes, variances are 5-10 degrees. Because of the evenness in indoor climate, ICF homes have no drafts or hotspots.

There is little to no air infiltration within these homes, resulting in a substantial decrease in dust, bugs, pollen and disease in general. Because of an ICF home is so airtight, an air exchange system is required. These systems can filter and regulate heat and humidity more efficiently than traditional systems.

Compared to regular stick-frames homes, ICF homes cost an average of 10% more then conventional construction.

Contact GONEN YOHANANOF for more insights into this topic. Direct line: (518) 321-3345 Email: SALES@GKYCONSTRUCTION.COM

By: Gonen Yohananof

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