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12. How much does Insulated concrete form (ICF) add to the total cost of construction?

Our Insulated concrete Form (ICF) projects typically run from a 7% to 10% cost increase over traditional “stick” or wood framed construction. This increase is due primarily to the cost of the additional concrete and steel used to fabricate the walls. ICF walls generally yield (dependent on polar orientation, wall penetration locations relative to polar orientation, exterior veneer, etc.) around a 35% reduction in normal electrical consumption as compared to a standard wood framed “stick” constructed house. Calculated together, this technology is less cost competitive than our more isolative materials and systems technologies. Typical savings from a building constructed with an Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) exterior wall system will pay for the construction within 15 years. The return on investment can take longer depending on specific size and use of the system.