Dave Marrs, co-host of HGTV’s Fixer to Fabulous, is not just a television personality but also an accomplished homebuilder with over 20 years in the residential construction industry. In a recent Roofers Coffee Shop podcast, Dave spoke about his experiences building houses in Arkansas using Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) and his newfound passion for the technology. Take a listen for yourself or read on to uncover Dave’s advice to contractors who are new to building with ICFs like he once was.
Insulated Concrete Forms are two panels of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam connected together with a web system, reinforced with rebar, and then filled with concrete to create a structurally solid and highly insulated wall. Compared to traditional wood-frame construction, ICFs provide continuous insulation that maximizes thermal efficiency and reduces heating and cooling costs for the owner. For Dave, the appeal of ICFs lies in their ability to deliver “sustainability without sacrifice”.
In addition to being eco-friendly, building with ICFs improves a structure’s fireproofing, sound dampening and resistance to high winds and debris impact. This disaster protection was critical for Dave’s projects in Arkansas, where they’re seeing an increase in tornado activity. Therefore, he says that contractors should view ICFs as a unique opportunity to meet customer demands for resilient and energy-efficient homes.
The most surprising aspect of ICF building for Dave was its speed compared to conventional framing methods. Dave explained how he constructed the exterior of a 2,000 sq ft home in just a day and a half with Nudura’s Insulated Concrete Forms. With ICFs, Dave and his team were able to minimize construction time, save costs on materials like OSB and sprayfoam insulation and significantly reduce on-site waste.
“Builders hate change,” Dave admitted, so the switch to ICF construction can be intimidating since stick-built houses have been the norm for decades. However, he encourages builders to overcome this hesitation, emphasizing that the benefits far outweigh any initial challenges.
To get started, Dave recommends taking advantage of Nudura’s ICF installation training offerings. There are free online ICF courses, as well as in-person ICF trainings hosted across the US and Canada so contractors can master the basics before going onto the jobsite.
His other advice for first timers? “Hire someone who already knows ICFs to help with the first project,” Dave says. Working alongside an expert enables them to see how straightforward the process can be, giving them the confidence to take on other ICF projects on their own.
When introducing ICFs to clients, Dave advises contractors highlight its long-term benefits. While ICFs may have higher upfront material costs, Dave points out “I spent about 10% more on Nudura materials, but that savings, I’ve already paid myself back what I saved in OSB, what I saved in insulation, what I saved in time and labor.” Additionally, home owners appreciate the lower utility bills, reduced maintenance needs and durability that lasts a lifetime.
Design versatility is another concern Dave addressed. Homeowners may worry that ICFs limit their design options, but he confirms that large windows, curved walls and arches, and virtually any exterior finish and interior layout are achievable with ICF wall systems. If anything, ICFs offer greater architectural versatility as the strength of the concrete walls enables greater wall heights and wider openings for vaulted ceilings and custom floorplans.
For homebuilders looking to satisfy environmentally conscious and durability-focused clients, adopting Insulated Concrete Forms is the best way to meets today’s demand for greener and stronger construction. “The technology is here,” Dave Marrs stressed. “It’s just a matter of giving it a try.”
If you’re a residential builder ready to begin your ICF journey, explore Nudura’s ICF training options today!
