ICF, Green Builders

ICF - insulated concrete forms

we're in the process of planning our future growth and looking for builders, contractors, etc that work GREEN

We'd like to use ICFs to build the structure (they're like styrofoam lego blocks that are filled with concrete, super insulated, extra strong, and you use less wood in the process)
and GREEN processes throughout (solar, window placement for maximum/minimum sun exposure,recycled building materials, etc)

we're obviously a small business, so we're also looking for affordable options

if anyone has any experience, i'd love to have your input and suggestions

thanks
shawn

Good idea re the insulated concrete, it is supposed to really save $$.
You should check out the Energy Pros web site http://www.theenergypros.net/chapters/louisville/
They are contractor-oriented and have training seminars. I think there's a seminar this month on ICF, but I don't know the details. On the design side, there's the U.S. Green Building Council (the LEED sponsoring org) - http://chapters.usgbc.org/KENTUCKY/default.html.

thanks

If ICF is what I think it is, it's not very common here. I remember seeing a lot of this construction in New Mexico a few years ago and I read up on it when I came home. Its very common in places like NM and Texas. High wind resistance, cheap, and no lumber. The concrete aspect makes it less than 'green' however. Concrete is a heavy polluter and these are all about concrete. Nice strong buildings, though. The 'adobe' look goes well with it.

Shawn,

The Kentucky Ready Mix Concrete Association (or the similar Indiana RMCA) can guide you and should be able to direct you to contractors or owners with ICF experience. They are in the business of promoting the use of concrete and will be motivated to help you. Here are some links to their web information on ICF.
KRMCA ICF Info
IRMCA ICF Info

Also, check out the Insulating Concrete Form Association at http://www.forms.org/index.php. Search using the "Find ICF Professionals" section on the left side of the homepage and you'll find ICF contactors in Indiana. I saw two listed contractors that are in southern IN.

In keeping with the food topic here note in the link below that Louisville restaurant August Moon was constructed with ICF. You might call owner and fellow restaurateur Peng Looi and ask him about his building construction and operation. He is registered on this forum as "looi", so you could PM him.

August Moon constructed using ICF

Also, if you work with an architect to design the new place, find one with the LEED certification. The certifcation is trendy now, so you'll have little trouble finding someone. They should be knowledgeable on the ICF subject and can help you find other ways to build a "green" building. If you qualify for the silver, gold or platinum LEEDs credits, you might be eligible for some tax breaks, although the up front construction costs will be higher than costs of conventional construction.

I believe Mark Isaacs, builder-Legacy Homes has a project downtown using ICF.

Check out their website, they have a couple of "green" projects that are interesting!

http://www.legacyhomeslouisville.com/home

Jay & Heather thanks for the info
i had no clue that AM was built that way

Dave, any "greener" commercial building suggestions would be more than welcome


we don't want to use lumber
we want something strong, durable, long lasting, low maintenance, & "tornado proof" (don't want to move the customers into the cooler)
we need serious insulation (sound and thermal)

our plan is to incorporate solar panels into the structure
use recycled materials whenever possible
and to build as green as we can

we welcome information from all sources
thanks

Shawn,

In addition to the above, the new Crestwood Elementary School being constructed is utilizing ICF construction. It's on LaGrange Road (146) on the right as you go out of Louisville. You can't miss it, Morel Construction is doing the work.

thanks

Hi Shawn:

August Moon is one for the first commercial bldg in KY using this material and it is an excellent energy saver. It does cost more but construction time frame is shorter and return on energy saving is about five years. Above all, it is 'green'.

My new concept in West Chester is being built using the same along with other 'green' concepts. Minus the fad, the cost of operations will be lower in the long run.

Email me if you have any questions.

Good luck...Looi

i'll be in touch
thanks for the info

we're still a year or two away from breaking ground, but i like to plan ahead

thanks
shawn