Many people assume that green building materials and energy efficient home construction are both incredibly expensive by default, but being on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on your goals for a high performance home. ICF construction is just one tried and true method for affordable green construction. Here are a few ways this unique material can help you save money both during construction and in your finished home.
Affordable Materials
Many modern green materials used for energy efficient construction can add up in cost fairly quickly. However, just because a material is newer and more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean it always works better. ICF construction is a technique that has been around for decades, and it remains one of the most efficient construction options available today. Over time, the cost has dropped for this material, making it an excellent green option for builders or homeowners on a budget.
During Construction
Construction projects involving ICF aren’t just more energy efficient when they’re fully built – they create less waste during construction as well. Because of how ICF blocks are assembled, the reduce the amount of material wasted. You’ll end up paying for less material that ends up getting wasted anyway, and you’ll be contributing less to landfills so you can feel better about your home’s overall carbon footprint.
Finished Builds
Finished ICF buildings are also able to provide savings in the form of reduced overall energy costs. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, ICF walls can save homeowners 20% to 25% on annual heating and cooling costs. Heating and cooling tends to be the largest energy expense in the average home, meaning a reduction here can result in major savings for most homeowners. By choosing the right materials early on, you’ll be able to save on your finished home.
ICF walls are an excellent option for homeowners looking to go green in their new homes. These green building materials can help you save on construction, as well as once the home is fully completed. For more information on insulated concrete forms and how to use them for affordable green construction, contact Nexcem today.