Question 1

What is ICF construction?

Accepted Answer

Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) is a modern method of construction where hollow insulated blocks are stacked to form the walls, then filled with reinforced concrete. The formwork stays in place, giving you a solid concrete structure with continuous insulation on both faces, delivering exceptional thermal performance, airtightness and strength in one system.

Question 2

Which ICF system do you build with?

Accepted Answer

We build with Nudura, one of the leading ICF systems worldwide. Our St Michael's Crescent development was constructed entirely in Nudura ICF, and we're happy to talk through the system on site or share build photography from our completed ICF projects.

Question 3

Is ICF more expensive than brick and block?

Accepted Answer

The wall build-up itself can cost slightly more than traditional masonry, but ICF is faster to erect, needs fewer trades on site, and dramatically reduces heating costs for the life of the building. On a whole-project and whole-life basis it is highly competitive, and for energy-conscious builds it's often the better-value route.

Question 4

How energy efficient is an ICF home?

Accepted Answer

Very. ICF walls provide continuous insulation with minimal thermal bridging and excellent airtightness, typically achieving U-values well beyond building regulations requirements. Paired with solar PV, good glazing and MVHR, ICF homes can approach Passivhaus levels of performance with significantly lower running costs than a traditional build.

Question 5

Can I get a mortgage and warranty on an ICF home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ICF is a recognised modern method of construction accepted by mainstream lenders, and our ICF homes carry a 10-year structural warranty with full building control sign-off, exactly like our traditionally built homes.

Question 6

Do you build ICF for self-builders?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ICF is one of the most popular systems for self-build projects, and we can deliver your ICF build as main contractor from groundworks to a watertight shell, or right through to a completed, warranted home. We work from your architect's drawings or can help coordinate the design team.

Question 7

Is ICF good for basements and difficult sites?

Accepted Answer

Excellent. Because the finished wall is reinforced waterproof-detailed concrete, ICF is ideal for basements, retaining structures, sloping sites and plots close to railways or roads where sound insulation matters. The concrete core also gives outstanding acoustic performance and fire resistance.

Nudura ICF construction

Nudura ICF construction

ICF New Build Homes

Self-Build ICF Packages

ICF Basements & Retaining Structures

Low-Energy & Passivhaus-Level Builds

Multi-Unit ICF Development

Difficult & Noise-Affected Sites

Why build ICF with Oricon

ICF construction FAQ

Thinking about an ICF build?