What are Insulated Concrete Forms?

Insulated Concrete Forms (or ICFs) are forms or molds that have built‐in insulation for accepting reinforced concrete. ICFs are hollow Styrofoam blocks which are stacked into the shape of the exterior walls of a building, reinforced with steel rebar, and then filled with concrete. 

ICF construction is compatible with virtually all home designs. Once built, ICF homes are indistinguishable from their traditionally framed counterparts. Since it is the structure material not the exterior finish, concrete homes are not limited in how they appear.

MACNAK Construction is one of the few Pacific Northwest contractors who have experience with ICF.

Financially, an ICF home or facility costs roughly the same as traditional stick-built buildings!

Flexibility in design

ICF homes have tremendous proven design
capabilities and are built to last, retaining value
longer. You can easily apply a variety of wall finishes
directly to the ICF – brick, vinyl, stucco, stone, and wood.

ICF creates an airtight seal with no drafts or cold
spots. ICF and the concrete core significantly reduce
outside noises allowing you to enjoy quiet peace even
if you live in an area near train, planes, or freeways.

Safe & healthy

The steel‐reinforced, concrete core protects your
family and home from wind (over 300mph), fire (3+
hour fire rating), earthquakes (get engineering for all
seismic zones), and moisture (no rotting or mold
growth).

energy efficiency

Homes built with ICF use an estimated 44% less
energy to heat and 32% less energy to cool than
comparable wood frame houses.