Tampa -- BuildBlock Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs)

[Amy Davidson]

Hey Tampa Bay area BPers!

On a trip to Carroll's Building Supplies in St. Pete a few months back I got really excited about BuildBlock Insulating Concrete Forms, or ICFs.  I read everything on Carroll's website and scoured the web for all the cost information, etc. but I haven't been able to find anyone who's actually built with it.   Is there anyone out there who has used ICFs?  The advantages, in theory, are so huge and I'd like to know if they are true in real life:

1.  Do they really hurricane proof a house like the studies show?  And then what about the roof, isn't that your biggest weakness then and how to you strengthen that up?

2.  Is your insurance therefore so much cheaper?

3.  And is electricity really just 20 bucks a month in the Florida summer?  

4.  All the trade websites say that in the end they're only a tiny percentage more expensive than regular concrete block because the labor costs go way down.    Can you share any numbers?

5. Do tenants then care if they and their belongings are safer so you can charge a premium? I'm a buy and holder, but looking to be a build and holder.

I know I'm nothing but questions, but I'd be so appreciative of any information at all you could provide.  I promise to pay it forward some day!     Thanks!

[Tom Parris]

Hi @Amy Davidson,

To me seems like a specialty item for those building a custom home, with a builder who excels with using that material. I can only assume there's a learning curve that comes with it, and since an average builder wouldn't be quite familiar with IFCs, I can also assume that municipalities that govern them wouldn't be familiar with that either causing a slow influence. There is a community in Apollo Beach that does build a net zero home, it's called Waterset. 

In my opinion, I would change other construction materials to make the home better before I switched from block to ICFs. Block is still a good insulator, water/termite resistant, and hurricane proof, while there's room for improvement in windows, insulation, AC efficiency etc. I wish to bet you the study they conducted featured upgraded windows, doors, and insulation. 

If you want a lower insurance premium, build with block, (or ICFs) and install a 4-12 hip roof to code, with hurricane impact windows and doors, not near the water, or in the wind impact zone. 

You are right, your roof is the first line of defense to the elements. Building code will change depending on your location. Hillsborough County has a wind impact zone that goes diagonally through the county, if you're above, your code requirements are easier than those of below the line. Current building code requirements are pretty solid when it comes to hurricane resistance. 

I don't think renters care. The premium they are willing to pay for is location and quality of finishes. If you want to pass on benefits a renter will appreciate, buy a condo or townhouse with community amenities and included utilities. They love those. 

[Amy Davidson]

Hey @Tom Parris    Thanks for much for your reply.  I have several houses in Hillsborough and have never even heard of that diagonal wind impact zone.  I'll definitely be figuring out where my current properties are thinking more strategically on future purchases.    I'm going to check out Waterset and keep looking for some actual ICF projects to look at.    Thanks for the tips on practical things renters love.  ICFs might qualify as an over-upgrade!  

Thanks again!