ICF manufacturers

There is a reasonable number of ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms) manufacturers worldwide, namely in North America, many of them working with concrete contractors and builders, or distributing their products through authorized vendors.

Pay attention to the foam or material they use, and their thickness. That, and the web (the stuff that connects the ICF forms together) are very important details. See: ICF Panels and BlocksICF construction is a new alternative to wood, steel and concrete frame wall construction. See: ICF panels and blocks

Some ICF manufacturers

In USA, where ICF construction is more widespread, Nudura, Amvic, Logix, Arxx, Rastra, Faswall and Durisol are well known ICF manufacturers. But there are others.

ICF Manufacturers and ICF contractors

The most important ICF manufacturers can put you in touch with experienced contractors (and ICF house-plans vendors). You typically specify the city or area in which your home is to be located, and they will give you a subcontractor or list of subcontractors in your area.

These contractors aren't necessarily certified by the the manufacturers. They usually do not warrant them.

Type of insulation

The type of the insulation material that makes the forms, and its thickness and other details, vary a lot.

ICF pioneers like Rastra and Durisol use recycled polystyrene-cement and proprietary materials like cement-wood forms, that are more eco-friendly than pure polystyrene alternatives. But there are other technical elements to take into account with a direct impact in durability, energy-efficiency, fire-resistance, sound proofing, mold-resistance, etc.

The thickness of the insulation

Some manufacturers use thicker forms, which is obviously very important: the thicker the forms, that is, the insulation layers, the higher the energy efficiency of the walls.

Interlocking grid

The techniques of stacking and interlocking the ICF blocks and panels are important and differ a lot from manufacturer to manufacturer. Interlocking blocks are preferable to blocks designed just to be stacked together.

Technical support

Choose a ICF manufacturer with good customer services and technical support. That's important.