Optimizing the Energy Efficiency of an ICF Home
A mechanical engineer gives his top 10 strategies
for achieving maximum energy savings
By Anne Balogh, The ConcreteNetwork

Without question, using insulating concrete forms (ICFs) to build the exterior walls of a home is one of the best ways to save energy—and dramatically reduce heating and cooling costs. But builders and homeowners shouldn’t become complacent. There are many other measures they can take to boost the energy performance of an ICF home. ...

" ... The true secret to optimum energy efficiency is to make the structure as airtight as possible while keeping the air quality very pure," says Richard Rue, CEO of EnergyWise Structures, Arlington, Texas. His mechanical engineering firm specializes in ultra-energy-efficient construction by designing the HVAC system to work in harmony with a structure’s thermal envelope. Along with maximizing a home’s energy performance, the company also focuses on indoor air quality to ensure a healthy, mold-free environment. ..."

... “With ICFs, you’ve certainly used the best wall system available. All these other strategies just complement it to complete the thermal envelope,” he says. More

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Why Build With Reward Wall?

Reward’s customers include general contractors, residential contractors, concrete contractors and construction supply distributors. Reward Wall Systems holds all national and major regional code approvals, and are currently the only ICF company to hold universal non-combustible code approval, which is necessary for large-scale commercial construction. Reward ICF walls have been tested for their energy efficiency, storm safety and fire resistance, with results that other types of wall systems can’t match.

There's a lot to be said for comfort—not only in our homes and workspaces, but also in the people we do business with. That's where Reward Wall Systems makes a difference.

From the outside you would never guess a Reward house is made of concrete. —Reward easily adapts to any floor plan you choose.

A concrete home built with Reward insulating concrete forms (ICFs) offers so much more than a standard built house.