Insulated Concrete Forms FAQ
- Can Reward insulated concrete forms (ICFs) be used above grade?
- Will building with Reward ICFs cost more than building with traditional framing and insulation?
- Can I use any floor plan?
- Will people be able to tell that my home is built with ICFs, just by looking at it?
- How much savings will I see in my energy bills?
- Are there any insurance benefits to building with Reward?
- Will it take longer to build with Reward?
- How can I visit a Reward job site or a completed Reward home?
- Are Reward walls as strong as concrete block or poured wall construction?
- Do the Reward forms stay in place after the concrete is poured?
- How are utilities and drywall installed?
- Do you waterproof Reward walls?
- How are doors and windows installed?
- How do I know which size form to use, and how many will it take?
- How can I find a contractor that builds with Reward?
- How can a builder get started using Reward?
Can Reward insulated concrete forms (ICFs) be used above grade?
Absolutely. The many features and benefits which Reward provides below grade make it a perfect choice for above-grade construction. In fact, to receive the full benefit from this type of quality construction and maximize the energy efficiency of the structure, Reward forms should be used for all exterior walls.
Will building with Reward ICFs cost more than building with traditional framing and insulation?
Initially, the cost can be higher, but it will save you money over the long run. The cost of building with Reward is comparable to building with 2x6 wall construction, but Reward walls have an R-value of 22, and an effective R-value of up to 32 or greater, which is much better than the R-value of a 2x6 wall. That means you could save up to 50% to 80% on your heating and cooling costs.
Can I use any floor plan?
Absolutely! In fact, Reward-built homes are ideal for today's popular curved walls and open floor plans.
Will people be able to tell that my home is built out of concrete, just by looking at it?
No one will be able to tell the difference by looking. The outside can have any kind of finish, from brick to stucco to siding. The inside may have deeper window wells, but you can have your walls finished any way you like. The real differences you'll notice are the sound and air quality, energy efficiency and cost-savings!
How much savings will I see in my energy bills?
Your concrete home can save you up to 50% to 80% on your energy bills! How much you'll save depends on many factors, like the number and type of windows in your home, the roof structure, the heating and cooling system, and the area where you live.
Are there any insurance benefits to building with Reward?
Usually, your insurance bills will go down. It varies according to the insurance company you choose. Reward-built homes are much stronger than conventional homes. They can be engineered to withstand winds up to 200 miles per hour. That's a solid defense against hurricanes and tornadoes.
Will it take longer to build with Reward?
If your contractor is already trained in ICF installation, it should take about the same amount of time - and sometimes even less time - than building a traditional wood-framed home. And Reward will fully support your builder throughout the process. If your builder is new to ICF construction, there will be a short learning curve. However, Reward can send a professional installer to your job site to be sure that your wall installation goes as smoothly as possible for you and your builder.
How can I visit a Reward job site or a completed Reward home?
We welcome you to see a Reward-built home for yourself! Just e-mail us your request - or call us at 800-468-6344 - and we'll give you the name and telephone number of an area representative who can show you a Reward job site.
Are Reward walls as strong as concrete block or poured wall construction?
Stronger! When cured, the concrete in Reward walls is 50% stronger. Plus, Reward automatically provides insulation and furring strips, and it's ready to finish right away!
Do the Reward forms stay in place after the concrete is poured?
Yes. Actually, the forms act as insulation, nailing surfaces and a vapor barrier, all in one.
How are utilities and drywall installed?
The utilities are installed directly into the foam. Channels or grooves are cut into the forms, and plumbing and electrical lines are then inserted into those grooves. The drywall is screwed directly onto the forms.
Do you waterproof Reward walls?
Yes, waterproofing is required below grade just as it is with any form of below-grade construction.
How are doors and windows installed?
A wooden or vinyl buck is built and incorporated into the Reward wall as it is being stacked and prior to pouring the concrete. Once the concrete cures, doors and windows are installed as usual.
How do I know which size form to use, and how many will it take?
It depends on the home you're building. Prior to the start of construction, your builder will choose the wall width based on your design and the structure.
How can I find a contractor that builds with Reward?
Simply call us at 800-468-6344 today!
How can a builder get started using Reward?
Contact Reward at 800-468-6344 and we'll be happy to arrange for your training.