Reasons Why ICF is Better than Regular Insulation

Posted by Max Ruby on July 29th, 2022

When it comes to comparing ICF blocks to foam insulation, the benefits are clear. ICF is a more energy-efficient and sustainable option, which means you will save money on heating and cooling bills yearly. Moreover, ICF is effective at stopping moisture, whether it be rain or condensation. It also doesn't rust or leak like foam and can handle a more excellent range of temperatures without freezing up. This blog post explains further why ICF is best.

How ICF is Better Than Foam

1. Cost

ICF construction is usually less expensive than using insulation foam because blocks are produced on a large scale compared to the production of the materials for insulation foam which is made from a petroleum product like polyurethane or polystyrene.

2. Durability

ICF walls are much more durable than foam insulation material. ICF is a lot stronger concrete than polystyrene, polyurethane, or other materials used in the production of foam insulation. That's why you will see fewer cases of failure concerning ICF walls. 

3. Fire Resistance

Because ICF blocks are concrete, they do not burn quickly and have a higher fire resistance rating than spray foam insulation. If a fire were to break out in a house with insulation foam, it would likely spread quickly and cause extensive damage because the foam is made of flammable materials. However, if the same fire breaks out from an ICF home, the concrete core would melt slowly, preventing it from quickly spreading through the structure and protecting the remaining walls from damage.

4. Sound Insulation

ICF blocks are good at sound insulation and help minimize the noise that nearby roads or other noise sources may sometimes cause. Spray foam insulation is not recommended for use on walls near a noise source as it provides poor sound insulation.

5. Moisture Protection

ICF provides much better moisture protection than foam insulation materials. The core of an ICF is made of concrete, preventing moisture from seeping through the walls and causing damage such as mold and mildew. 

6. Construction Time & Efficiency

ICF blocks can be cast in place to build a home or other structure quicker and more efficiently than pouring foam insulation into a form to shape the walls. A house built using ICF blocks can be made in less time than a house with foam insulation, costing less in construction.

7. Low Environmental Impact

ICF has a low environmental impact compared to spray foam insulation. The components of ICF are relatively easy to obtain and are not made from petroleum products that deplete the Earth's natural resources. Concrete is also easy to reuse and recycle, unlike some foam insulation materials, which are made from chemicals that can be toxic or harmful if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed into the body.

8. Provides Thermal Insulation

ICF blocks make a home more energy efficient. They are made of concrete, which keeps the heat inside and the cool air in the summer. Because of this, a house with ICF walls needs less heating or air conditioning than one with foam insulation.