Corey Mennenga & Kirk Schamens of Benchmark Foam install ICFs at Habitat for Humanity site.

09-16-09

Benchmark Foam continues its ongoing commitment to the Watertown Area Habitat for Humanity. The most recent project is the foundation for one of two homes scheduled for construction in Watertown, South Dakota. Working with Habitat personnel, Benchmark Foam employees volunteered to oversee and assist in the installation of its expanded polystyrene (EPS) Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF).

Spearheaded by Habitat Site Supervisor Francis Kearney, the foundation was assembled and concrete poured in less than two days. According to Kearney, he prefers to use ICFs because they are easier to work with than steel forms and “they don’t break your back.”

One of the more obvious benefits of ICFs compared to steel forms is their lightweight assembly and installation ease. ICFs save energy costs because of added insulation provided by the EPS.

     •  Achieve energy savings by eliminating drafts associated with framed buildings

     •  Lower utility costs with two built-in layers of insulating foam

     •  Save time and money with less exterior bracing & finishing steps

     •  Ideal for basements, warehouses, single-family homes and multi-story apartments

Benchmark Foam Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) installed at Habitat for Humanity site.