IntegraSpec Benefits:

Energy Efficiency
With the combination of insulation on the outside of the wall attacking cold or heat and the insulation on the inside of the wall defending the comfort that has been paid for, a synergetic relationship occurs. This is a relationship where the total “R” performance is greater than the sum of the insulating components. “R-Performance” also takes into consideration the benefits of greatly reduced air infiltration. Because of the insulated thermal mass that is created with IntegraSpec walls, a “heat sink” effect occurs. Therefore, outside temperature swings are greatly moderated within the area protected by IntegraSpec.

Quiet Comfort
The full-width monolithic concrete core in the IntegraSpec wall helps to make a home very quiet. IntegraSpec homeowners all comment regarding how much they enjoy the quiet comfort provided by IntegraSpec.

Wind Resistance
In the “tornado alley” of Southern Illinois, IntegraSpec walls can be constructed with increased steel reinforcement bars to withstand extreme wind forces. Reduced injury from airborne projectiles in extreme storms is a major benefit of ICF construction.

Improved Air Quality
The elimination of mold, mildew, and volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) is such that IntegraSpec homes have recently won “Environmental Excellence”, “EnviroHome”, “Healthy Homes”, and “Build Green” awards and designations.

Moisture Protection
Moisture protection from IntegraSpec walls is an important benefit even for house plans totally above grade. Condensation can be eliminated because of the outside insulation and inside insulation working together again. Living areas below grade are called “lower levels” in an IntegraSpec home, not basements or cellars! Many below grade waterproofing systems can be easily and economically applied to ensure dry, healthy, and safe usable living space.

Structural Stability
Structural stability is important when considering shelter from a storm. IntegraSpec walls can also support greater loads with maximum strength concrete, cured under optimal conditions inside the IntegraSpec wall system. Also, as open spans and higher backfill heights increase in demand, IntegraSpec offers simple solutions which is why architects and designers are confidently specifying IntegraSpec.

Fire Resistance
Fire resistance is a major benefit for those living in wild land, urban interface zones, or shared wall residences. IntegraSpec forms are designed to be economically upgraded to meet commercial fire resistant standards ensuring superior safety for your family.

Compatability With Other Trades
Drywall is easily installed on the 1 5/8” studs/furring strips every 8” on center. Your drywall is now mounted onto furring strips embedded onto a reinforced concrete wall. Say goodbye to drywall screws damaging your drywall because the wood studs twisted.

Electricians working with IntegraSpec walls are using hot knives or electric chainsaws (vegetable oil is used instead of chain oil to eliminate VOC’s) to cut the chases for wiring. Standard electrical boxes are mounted to the concrete with a “tapcon” and metal stud flange boxes are being mounted to the furring strips.

Siding professdionals have the 1 5/8” furring strips at 8” on center and at each outside corner to fasten the siding, as do masons when supporting the brick with metal brick ties. The outside corners also have a vertical cavity for metal or wood inserts for additional fastening capabilities.

Stucco installers quickly realize the benefits of applying their products to an IntegraSpec wall. There are no exposed furring strips or “webs” and the steel reinforced wall is so stable that stucco cracks are eliminated unlike conventional construction. No need to install insulation board as the IntegraSpec walls are ready for the prep-coat and fiber mesh.

Plumbers typically use the interior walls to run their systems. Sleeves are easily placed through the wall for water, hose bibs, sewer/septic connections, etc. prior to the placement of concrete.

Framing contractors can use conventional framing methods and the use of steel studs in IntegraSpec houses is on the rise. Anchor bolts are placed into the wet concrete as specified for floor and roof connections.