Using ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms) in The Bahamas
- Mark Turnquest, CIPM
- Jan 3, 2016
- 1 min read
An ICF block consist of two polystyrene panels and a vinyl inserts for the core.
The block comes in various lengths and heights and shapes. The core also comes in varied sizes. Further, the block incorporates the use of #4 & 5 steel going vertically and horizontally. In most case the spacing of the steel going vertically is 16 inches on center. ICF construction is most used in areas and locations where there is hurricanes and earth quakes.
Because we in The Bahamas experience an average temperature of 80-86 degrees 350 days a year this would be an abvious choice for construction.
The properties of an ICF block underpins this kind of construction in our environment here in The Bahamas. Further, because of our electrical cost is astronomical, ICF supports energy efficiency using the perimeter wall system.
The block retards mold, mildew, water, and fire.
The risk to insurance companies is reduced therefore the premiums to insurance holders are reduced.
The ICF block concept will certainly become an intrigal player in the way we do construction in the future.
Thanks for your comments, it's timely and that is what we would like to see happen.
hopefully your company has not been destroyed. If not you have an opportunity to join with all your competitors and petition the government to create a system that demonstrates the advantage of you product and request government cooperation to expedite permitting and use of your construction system to re-establish tourist dollar flow and proper use of the insurance funds. If homegrown Bahamas companies do not take advantage of this as expeditiously as possible , others will ! Your industry has an opportunity to employ locals to rebuild the Abacos . A reasonable subsidy on the Construction price to make costs more equal to standard construction could greatly benefit the country. The demand for shelter is greater now than in t…