California Fires & Building with ICF

As I have watched the disastrous California fires, it is apparent that some parts of this horrendous scene are not under man’s control. The Santa Anna wind always happens. The political issues contributing to the fires will continue to be debated, but having water in the system for the firefighters and using proper forest management to minimize the fuel feeding the fire would have helped alleviate much of the damage and loss.

The only piece of the puzzle that can be controlled by the homeowner is how the home is constructed. If ICF block were used for all exterior walls up to the rafters, and then a non-flammable roof topped the house, many of the homes that were in the path of the fire would still be standing today with minimal damage.

Being an ICF builder and supplier in and around Park City, Utah, many of my projects are built next to forest or Bureau of Land Management wild lands so we are very conscious of wildfire dangers. The cost of building with ICF blocks compared to stick framing a home are almost equal, but ICF has many more advantages than just being fireproof.

ICF structures reduce monthly energy bills by 30 to 50% (ICF R-52, Framed walls R-19)

ICF reduces sound transmission by 2/3’s (STC rating 50+)

ICF concrete walls are 6 to 10 times stronger than framing to withstand hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes.

Non-organic ICF materials prevent insect damage as well as mold and mildew.

In summary, ICF homes are stronger, quieter, healthier, and more energy efficient Homes. 

Rick Anderton ICF Builder Supply icfbuildersuppy@gmail.com (801) 870-5575