Safe Harbor Design/Build LLC

Building with ICF's in Southern Florida makes the most sense. Consider the following advantages and we think you will agree:

          ·        Energy Efficiency...

Since air conditioning has become the norm in Southern Florida insulation is essential in reducing utility costs. Typical ICF wall systems have R values ranging from 22-40. This performance is further enhanced by the thermal mass of the concrete walls reducing the solar effect and buffering the interior from outdoor temperature extremes. Since the walls are continuously poured reinforced concrete the infiltration of air through the walls is almost completely eliminated creating an air tight building envelope.

           ·    Structural Integrity...

ICF structures offer superior resistance to wind loads imposed during a hurricane. This is particularly true when the roof is also constructed using ICF products and reinforced concrete. The weight of a concrete roof combined with the continuous lines of rebar provide an excellent construction system in hurricane prone areas. ICF structures also offer superior resistance to flying debris. Tests completed by the Wind Engineering Research Center at Texas Tech University in 1997 shot wooden studs at various wall systems at speeds exceeding 100 mph. The studs penetrated all the stud wall systems. The ICF systems did not even show signs of cracking. 

·        Design Flexibility…

Today’s ICF products are capable of any floor plan. Any design can easily be constructed using ICF’s. 

·        Fire Rating...

ICF wall systems have a fire rating of 4 hours with the application of ½” drywall on the interior wall. They do not burn on their own and do not produce fumes any more toxic than burning wood.

·        Sound Reduction...

ICF wall have excellent sound attenuation qualities. STC (Sound Transmission Coefficients) of ICF walls exceed 50 compared to about 36 for standard stud walls.  It should be noted as STC ratings increase by 10 the amount as sound transmitted decreases by a factor of 3.  ICF homes are noticeably more quiet.

·        Air Quality...

Mold is an increasing concern as homes become tighter and infiltration is reduced. ICF walls do not provide the necessary food source for mold to grow.

·        Making Buildings “GREEN”...

·        Costs