I need some input on ICF choice for a home I'm designing.

I plan to spec for exterior a vertical siding, either panelized such as fiber cement panel (e.g. HardiPanel Sierra 8) or Roseburg Forest Products Breckinridge (sort of a T-1-11), or a real wood shiplap. (That's the look we want.) I'd like to know whether it matters to spec an ICF with embedded webs such as Nudura's or ones with surface webs.

Other background factors:

1. We're in an area with very limited ICF builders (only 2 reputable that I know of) and limited available forms.
2. One of the two builders recommended NOT using Nudura (i.e. embedded webs) because he says there is an additional hassle factor in haging panels correctly. He uses Nudura and there is good local support, so he's not saying this because he doesn't like the form—he just wouldn't want to hang panel siding on it. He likes EIFS for it, but the owners and design don't really call for a stucco look.
3. I would prefer to spec an ICF that both builders would use, in large part because I want to draw the house as precisely as possible TO the system, and not have to deal with dimensional changes necessitated by mid-stream form changes. AND I would like to get the bids to be as apples-to-apples as possible.

If the answer is, "It doesn't matter," then could you experienced pros tell me the best, most cost-effective hanging method? Furring strips? Screw types? Pre-drilling required? etc.

Also, I'd appreciate input on any other factors I need to consider.

Thanks in advance.

I really like the idea of an air space or drainage plane between any type of siding and the structural wall.  I believe the siding will last longer if given a chance to dry between rains.  I know it will cost a little more to use furring strips.  Are there any studies about whether furring strips should be used?

There is no advantage in this application with a buried or exposed tie that I can see.. Vertical sidings are very uncommon these days and will require extra thought as to application and lay-out methods with ICF's. This would be one application that horizontal furring may be applicable.

As long as it was designed properly all 6" and 8" o.c. tie spacing ICF forms would work in proper dimensions. The first sheet from a specific corner would have to be ripped length wise to meet vertically with the next sheet at the tie intervals. From there on all sheets would fall out appropriately till the last sheet was cut to fit opposite side. If designed with no butt or offset seams this would work but again I'm sure challenges will arise.

As far as Altons post, there is allot of truth to sidings needing to dry out and not trap moisture. At least with ICF you will not have to worry about rot, but air movement behind the siding will definitely help dry it and prolong longevity. It has been proven even though vinyl siding is the leakiest of all siding possibilities, it dries the best behind its surface due to air infiltration.

Dave