High-Performance ICF Foundations & Basements
With Element ICF, builders can self-install foundations with their own crews and with equipment that isn’t specialized. They don’t have to rent forms and they don’t have to coordinate and wait on forming sub-contractors. Plus, the ICF installation process is far lighter, easier and faster than CMU.
As for homeowners, most regular basements are used just for storage. Your home deserves more than wasted space and a drag on your finances. By building a high-performance Element ICF foundation, your basement will feel just as comfortable as any main floor and will be built for LIVING! Choosing Element ICF will also help to significantly lower your energy bills. In fact, a high-performance Element ICF foundation is the smartest home upgrade you can choose!
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The Economics of High-Performance Element ICF Foundations
A typical Element ICF basement will generally cost about the same or possibly somewhat less than a comparable conventionally poured basement finished with 2×6 framing and full R-20 batt insulation.
To receive your occupancy permit you will have to cover your Element ICF basement walls with a thermal barrier which is usually drywall. However you can simply screw the drywall to the ICF walls. You do not have to tape and mud the joints nor do you have to install any wiring into the walls at that time if you do not wish to.
For this comparable cost, unlike regular basements, an Element ICF basement will feel as comfortable as another main level of the home. Plus, an Element ICF steel-reinforced 6″ concrete wall is stronger and more crack-resistant than a typical 8″ concrete wall built without steel reinforcement.
Element ICF Foundation
Conventional Foundation
R-23
Yes
No
Exterior Insulation
Yes
No
Damp or Waterproofed?
Waterproofed
Damp proofed
Concrete Core Thickness
6″
8″
Steel Reinforced
Yes
No
9′ Ceiling Heights
Easily Achieved
Requires Special Forms
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