(NC)—Construction specialists here and in the United States are applauding a Canadian company for spearheading a far more efficient way to erect a building. Instead of wood framing, Nudura Integrated Building Technology constructs the walls with concrete.
More specifically, Nudura is a primary North American supplier of the interlocking, 'insulated concrete forms' (ICFs), a high-efficiency system that is gradually convincing builders to break away from yesterday's standard with wood. Over the past decade or so, ICF construction has been proving its value in custom designed homes, offices, schools, and in any public building that is intent on improving operational cost, comfort, conservation, and long-term value.
“Our ICF system is certified, tested for safety, and it contributes significantly to the environmental initiatives of LEED,” says marketing manager, Todd Blyth, emphasizing his company's support for the international organization, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design. “As a result of such performance, our walls were recently selected for 'net-zero' pilot projects in the United States. “Net-zero occurs when a combined set of design, construction, and operating components are so efficient, the net consumption of energy taken from the public grid, is zero.”
In addition to energy bill savings, conservation, and lowered carbon footprints, Blyth highlights a few additional ICF benefits including interior design, curb appeal, and occupant comfort:
Fuel Savings: A reinforced, insulated concrete wall vastly reduces air infiltration (compared to wood walls) and this improves energy performance. By combining two panels of thick (EPS) foam with the structural strength and thermal mass of concrete, the walls can provide an efficiency rating as high as R-50 (compared to an average R20 in wood structures), saving you up to 70 per cent in energy costs.
Atmosphere: Outside cold can easily travel through a typical wood-framed wall, causing drafts and cold spots. Reinforced concrete walls prevent this discomfort due to better insulation. Occupants can rely on even temperatures throughout the house, plus air to breathe that is far less prone to the mould, mildew and toxins that are associated with wood. Concrete walls are also an effective sound barrier, dampening vibrations from any noise outside.
Beauty: Once the structure is erected, it can be finished with smart-looking brick, or with more creative finishes like stone, stucco, wood siding and more, just like a traditional home. Inside, many innovative architectural shapes like arches, bay windows and specific door styles, are easily achieved.
Security: The fire protection rating is up to 4 hours, and if high winds in your community are a concern, Nudura data shows that an ICF home demonstrates hurricane and tornado impact resistance up 402 kilometers per hour (250 mph).
Investment Value: It is generally expected that a stronger, safer, greener home – and one that is more durable, more cost efficient, with less need for maintenance and repair – will increase in resale value.
More information is available online at www.nudura.com.
