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Alexa
Registered Users
Posts:2
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| 04/23/2008 9:00 AM |
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We're planning to build a home this summer in Southern Vermont and have done a lot of research on efficient homes. We are leaning toward an ICF basement and SIPs outer walls. Probably also a SIPs roof. Cost is a real concern, but we're pretty convinced about the payback based on energy savings.
So, a few questions (I'll also cross-post this in the SIPs panel):
1) Most of the posts here are about full ICF buildings. Does anyone have any particular thoughts or concerns about an ICF basement and SIPs walls/roof?
2) I've read that most house plans (we're planning a relatively straightforward design) can be pretty easily translated into ICF/SIPs. True? I'd rather not be limited to existing ICF/SIPs plans. Anything in particular we should keep in mind during design?
3) We work in the building trades (lightning protection), and are fortunate to have a wonderful GC/Builder friend, one of the best in the area, helping us out with siting, design, etc. But he has little experience with ICF or SIPs. We plan to GC our own build. Does anyone have a recommendation of a good ICF and/or SIPs installer in the Southern Vermont area?
4) There seem to be few trades people in this area with much, if any, ICF or SIPs experience. Because of that, most trades feel they'll have to jack up their price quite a bit because they'll be working with something unknown. Does anyone have experience with working other trades through the ICF or SIPs "learning curve"? Any recommendations?
Thanks for any and all advice! |
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renangle
Registered Users
Posts:58
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| 04/23/2008 10:48 AM |
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Alexa,
I'll throw in some thoughts and hope they will help. Well since you posted on the ICF board, I'll say I would build the entire house out of ICF though I'm sure that isn't a huge surprise. There are a few issues that builders have brought up to me about SIPS which has turned them away such as if flashing isn't done properly at windows and doors and moisture gets in the middle of the SIP it could be bad. Also if you do your roof with SIPS and anything hits the roof (like a tree) and damages the SIP, you will probalby have to replace the entire roof. That being said...
1. Yes you can do ICF with SIPS above grade you should be okay.
2. In the design process try to work your footing to the nearest inch or 2, stay away from 1/2", 1/8", etc, it will cost much more. Allow the deminsions of the form to work with you so they connect well. LEVEL FOOTER let me repeat LEVEL FOOTER!
3. I just did a google search for Vermont ICF and came up with www.vticf.com or call 866-883-6767. They have a very good block and a bracing system (bracing is really important), so I would definately call them. Plus they have a map on their website that shows where they've done houses (of which there are several) so you can see where they've built an maybe see one of their homes.
That should get you moving a bit.
Good luck - renangle
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hayes8705
Registered Users
Posts:3
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| 04/26/2008 12:19 PM |
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Hi Alexa,
My husband and I are building next summer in northern VT and were also originally considering an ICF foundation + SIP wall system and roof. After lots of research, we have decided to go with a full ICF home (with a traditional truss roof). We've started a blog to track our progress (www.greenhousevt.blogspot.com) and have a recent post that explains our decision to go full ICF. The benefits of an ICF wall system just seem too good to pass up...and, ultimately, SIP walls still involve wood, which we'd like to avoid (moisture issues, longevity issues, etc.) VT ICF which has already been mentioned is a great resource--ask to speak with Joel Baker. He'll tell you everything you need to know. They work with Amvic blocks which, as far as ICF blocks go, seem to be quite good and easy to work with. I'm guessing that they can also help connect you with subs who are comfortable and experienced working in ICF projects. Joel just built a beautiful ICF home in Waterbury that is for sale--I'm sure he could give you a tour if you were curious to see what a full ICF house was like. Also, my husband and I are GCing our own home but are working closely with Al Rossetto, a builder based out of Lancaster, NH (but who used to work in VT). He is a terrific guy and a terrific builder. If you would like his contact info., just let me know. Best of luck with your build!
Susan |
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PanelCrafters
Registered Users
Posts:1246
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| 04/26/2008 2:31 PM |
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Posted By hayes8705 on 04/26/2008 12:19 PM
Also, my husband and I are GCing our own home but are working closely with Al Rossetto, a builder based out of Lancaster, NH (but who used to work in VT). He is a terrific guy and a terrific builder. If you would like his contact info., just let me know. Best of luck with your build!
I second the idea of using Al. He wrote an article(in Fine HomeBuilding) about building energy efficient homes in Vermont. And, gasp, he used SIPS above grade.
Good Luck! |
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....jc
If you're not building with OSB SIPS(or ICF's), why are you building? |
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vticf
Registered Users
Posts:1
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| 05/05/2008 2:09 PM |
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Alexa,
My name is Jesse Wing and our company Vermont ICF is interested in speaking with you to answer any questions you may have and or help you get in touch with a skilled ICF installer in your area. Our number is 802-244-6111 we are located in Waterbury, VT and have been working with ICFs since 1995. Visit our website and we look forward to your call. Thank you Jesse Wing VTICF |
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James Eggert
Registered Users
Posts:964
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| 05/07/2008 8:26 PM |
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Alexa
It appears you have some good places to start in regards to your new ICF style home.
In general, I prefer ICFs, but a combo house is still beter than stick.
One of my clients built their own ICF retirement home which I designed for them in SW New Hampshire. Don't be afraid to tackle this especially if you already have a builder to help you.
If you need additional services there are many sources here in the NE.
renangle
"Also if you do your roof with SIPS and anything hits the roof (like a tree) and damages the SIP, you will probalby have to replace the entire roof. "
I think this is a little extreme because even though I don't use SIPs, I can figure out how to install a patch panel iiiif a tree fell on the house. I think SIPs can do a pretty good job, when used with ICFs or even on their own!(oooh, did I really say that?) |
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Take Care
Jim
Design/Build/Consulting
"Not So Big" Design Proponent |
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