With safety, durability, and pricing becoming more important factors in the construction of new buildings, the demand for a more efficient building material has been rising for a while. Especially with the increase of extreme weather like tornadoes and hurricanes, homeowners and construction companies have been searching for a new way to make safer and more dependable buildings that their occupants can rely on in even the harshest of circumstances. And that’s where ICFs come in.
ICFs, otherwise known as insulated concrete forms, are a new and revolutionary material used for many building construction types. ICFs are superior to other types of materials such as wood, stone, and others for a variety of reasons. They are much more reliable in extreme weather. Every ICF building features a continuous load path to the ground, which is required for buildings that expect to deal with strong winds such as those found in tornadoes and hurricanes.
In addition to this ICF exterior finishes have no impact on their incredible durability, with ICF buildings being able to withstand severe impacts from flying debris. They are also moisture-resistant and energy efficient, thanks to the interlocking system of rebar and ties which seal the ICFs together in airtight fashion. This airtight seal prevents heat from escaping, moisture from getting in or out, and your energy bill from skyrocketing in summer or winter months.
Indeed, ICFs have proven to be the ideal building material for just about every type of building, even those with complex architectural designs like arches and numerous corners. Yet still, many have been wondering what kind of ICF exterior finishes can be applied? Are ICF buildings able to be equipped with all your standard exterior finishes like vinyl siding, stucco, and others?
Let’s take a closer look at exterior finishes and which ones are able to be successfully installed on ICF framework so you can pick the best option when it comes to choosing between looks for your building.
There Are Plenty of Options for ICF Exterior Finishes
As it turns out, ICFs work well with ANY exterior finish you can think of. That includes but is not limited to;
- Wood Siding
- Stucco
- Brick
- Synthetic Stone
- Hybrid Combinations
- Natural Stone
- Vinyl Siding
Since you’re afforded every option available when it comes to ICF exterior finishes, you’re also able to achieve any type of design or aesthetic you want, regardless if your building is residential or commercial. Here is a list of some of the many types of aesthetics which work beautifully with ICFs;
- Cape Cod
- Victorian
- Cottage
- Colonial
- Art Deco
- Mediterranean
- Ranch
Architects Love ICF
Even the most complex and unique ICF properties are able to mesh well with any type of exterior finish. Curved sections along with other types of distinct exterior features are absolutely no problem when it comes to ICF. The versatility of materials that work well with ICF allows architects to be creative with their design and avoid limitations.
ICF Exterior Finishes Work Well with Doors and Windows Too
Even with your favorite type of siding, your building would not be complete without matching door and window trim. Thankfully, any type of exterior door or window can be married into your ICF design.
The Options for ICF Exterior Finishes Are Endless with ICF Blocks
ICF buildings are undoubtedly the wave of the future. They offer so many benefits when compared with traditional building materials like wood and others that there is really no comparison. And, while you might expect some drawbacks to such a durable, efficient, and affordable ICF wall system, this isn’t the case at all.
With an ICF Wall System, you are able to apply any type of exterior finish that you want with ease. This means that in addition to the practical benefits of ICFs, you’re also able to enjoy as wide of a variety of exterior finish styles as you would with any other kind of building material.
