An ICF is a hurricane-resistant building design that withstands more impact from winds and water damage. ICFs have become the standard for storm-resistant construction in recent years because of their superior durability. In fact, many Insulating Concrete Form buildings survived the wind and storm surge of Hurricane Katrina, one of the United States’ worst natural disasters.

“Safety was a secondary consideration when we chose to build with ICFs,” said ICF homeowner Randy Robbins. “For us, the greatest benefit was its energy efficiency. Yet we’re alive today because of these walls.”

Because of its use of hurricane-resistant building designs, Robbins’ home was protected from tornado-force winds with speeds up to 157 mph.

Robbins is not alone. In many cases, builders or owners may have initially chosen ICFs for their energy efficiency. However, the ability to withstand hurricane-force winds and water damage turned out to be the most significant benefit. This durability is what makes choosing storm-resistant construction one of the best decisions homeowners can make.

ICFs are an innovative alternative to traditional wood or light-gauge steel building frames. Because it is constructed using durable concrete, an ICF building is an effective hurricane-resistant building design. Wood-framed buildings can generally hold up against 120 mph winds. In contrast, ICF buildings can withstand anywhere from 200 to 300 mph winds, more than double wood’s capacity.

FEMA recommends that storm shelters be constructed using ICFs. This alone is a testament to just how powerful ICF buildings are and how much they can help builders prevent disaster. ICFs’ hurricane-resistant building design is unparalleled in modern construction and gives the best chance for occupants’ safety.

One of the major factors in a building’s wind resistance is whether it uses a continuous load path from the roof to the foundation. This lets the structure transfer wind uplift and shear loads safely to the ground level. ICFs do this by using a wall-to-foundation connection to bolster vertical reinforcing steel bars. Specialized hardware is used for roof and floor connections, while roof trusses are attached directly to the concrete or using straps connected to metal plates inside the concrete. Optional ledger systems can reinforce the connection between the wall and floor for an even more effective hurricane-resistant building design.

ICFs are also being implemented to protect builders and owners from earthquake risk. Softwoods have been used for years since their lighter weight gives them an advantage against seismic shifts. However, softwoods often have issues with bracing and structural connections. This has often been the undoing of softwood buildings in earthquake zones. Concrete resists compression forces that push other materials together. Meanwhile, reinforced steel keeps the structure from coming apart and cracking. Double rebar curtains are often added in areas with especially high seismic activity for extra protection.

Concrete actually gets stronger in the presence of moisture. This is a major advantage since it means ICFs suffer virtually no damage even when submerged in floodwaters. Wood, on the other hand, is vulnerable to mold, mildew, and rot. Concrete keeps its composition over time, even under adverse conditions. Often, all that concrete needs after submersion in a flood is a pressure wash. This gives additional peace of mind to those in flood zones or considering designs for buildings to resist a hurricane.

Hurricane-resistant building designs offer an array of other benefits and advantages. These alone are often enough to convince builders to use ICFs in their construction.

• Lower Insurance Premiums. Insurance quotes for concrete risk builders can be anywhere from 22 to 72 percent cheaper than for builders using wooden frames. Commercial building owners generally see a reduction by 14 to 65 percent in their premium costs. Insurance companies continue to incentivize ICFs as disaster-ready construction practices become more prevalent.
• Higher Building Resale Value. Investing in storm-resistant construction practices from the beginning can pay off immensely if you decide to sell. Among other aspects, building appraisers consider storm-resistant construction in making their appraisals. This is even truer in areas with a high risk of natural disasters.
• Financial Benefits. ICFs can create additional incentives from tax credits, utility discounts, reduced mortgage and financing costs, favorable permits, and more. Often, these differ in each state and locality, meaning your area could have unique benefits not listed here.

FORTIFIED goes above average building codes, which are minimum standards, by giving you options to increase the performance of your home or business against severe weather.

Using third-party, independent FORTIFIED Evaluators, provides an in depth verification process that gives occupants an added layer of protection by ensuring a building is built to the highest construction standards.

FORTIFIED qualifies homes or businesses for insurance discounts and tax credits from a growing list of states. Certain states have legislated these discounts or credits. 

The FORTIFIED designation lasts for five years, at which time it must be renewed. This allows you to continue to receive any insurance discounts or benefits and lets you know your home is still performing to the highest standards. 

A FORTIFIED designations stays with a property. When you sell your property, the next owner gets the same benefits you did… that’s a selling point. Speaking of selling points, a recent study led by the University of Alabama and co-authored by the University of Mississippi and Auburn University shows that a FORTIFIED designation increases a property’s value by 7% (in some cases more) when it sells. 

FORTIFIED has been shown to be affordable at every price point. From Habitat for Humanity to beachfront homes, the costs to build, re-roof or upgrade are minimal compared to the benefits. Sleep better knowing your home is built to some of the highest standards available and your home and your possessions are protected.