Feature : Grand Rapids Builders Journal
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We don’t have that problem with this technology.” While construction contractors seem to adapt easily to using ICF’s, is does change the homebuilding process.
For example, the floors
have to be hung onto the ICF walls
using special hardware that is
built into the 
blocks. In addition,
while the blocks are designed with
vertical slots for running electrical
wiring, Gary’s team also cut
horizontal slots for some of the
electrical wiring, and then fills the
holes back up with foam. Any kind
of finish, including siding, brick,
stone and wood, can be attached
to an ICF wall.
Not surprisingly, the cost of an ICF home is higher than conventional construction Gary Estimated that typical home may cost 8% more in material and labor but the energy savings are quickly recouped. When homeowners are looking for additional lone-term savings on energy cost, Gary also recommends insulation under basement and wood floor, as well as an in-floor radiant heating system.
With is type of radiant heat, tubes are buried in one-and-one-half inches of concrete under the floors and connected to a boiler. Hot water circulates through the tubes and creates a quiet, comfortable, energy efficient heating system that can be adjusted in every room in the house. “You can have different temperature zones.” Gary explains, “Your master bedroom could be set at 65 degrees while your master bath is set at 90 degrees. Gary finds that in-floor radiant heat and other energy efficient technologies compliment the ICF walls and result in houses he’s proud to build. No doubt his customers will be proud to have chosen their ICF homes when those heating and cooling bills arrive. The Builder’s Journal Magazine is pleased to present Gary Katt as a featured builder and we wish him continued successhome - 1 - 2 - 3
