The benefits of ICF in a scalable package

By The Coffee Shops®.

Insulated concrete panels deliver many of the advantages associated with ICF construction with added flexibility and efficiency for many residential, multifamily and light commercial projects.

In the last few years, we’ve been talking a lot about ICF (insulated concrete forms) and the benefits they offer contractors (see this article and this podcast). But in this piece, we’re going to focus on one of the products that has been developed using very similar technology – ICPs (insulated concrete panels).

As factory-made, full height wall panels, ICPs are one of the most efficient ways to create concrete wall systems today featuring four main components:

1. EPS foam insulation: The expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam serves as a framework and insulator in ICPs. With a 1.5 pound density, it meets/exceeds code requirements for sheathing, eliminating the need for additional sheathing.
2. A water-resistant barrier (WRB): Most ICPs feature a polyester film layer. This acts as a WRB, removing another installation step.
3. External reinforcement system: In contrast to traditional concrete work which features internal rebar, ICPs utilize an external reinforcing system that “functions like a composite truss in a vertical position.” This type of reinforcement provides structural strength and an easy attachment point for interior finishes and external cladding.
4. Site-integrated concrete: The last part of installing an ICP is pouring the concrete on site into the vertical cavities. Most manufacturers will provide a mix specification document that outlines what type of concrete should be installed.

A prime example of a modern ICP product is Nudura’s HercuWall™ panel system. This product delivers “impressive thermal performance, typically R-28 to R-31, code-listed fire and STC ratings and fast installation, benefiting builders, building managers and occupants alike.”

As Greg Garrison, Business Development Specialist at Tremco CPG, explained, “[In comparison to Nudura ICFs], we're able to install HercuWall faster in the residential environment, especially [in projects like] build to rent, townhomes [and] multifamily. [Additionally, these HercuWall panels] use less concrete thanks to our concrete stud wall technology. So, it brings all the benefits and attributes of ICF into a much more scalable package.”

Read more about ICPs and HercuWall.