Timber Frame Design
Exceptional Strength and Durability
Solid reinforced concrete walls withstand extreme weather, resist rot and rust, and are designed for long-lasting performance.
Continuous insulation and thermal mass reduce heating/cooling costs and maintain stable indoor temperatures
Superior Energy Efficiency
Concrete core and treated insulation provide multi-hour fire protection, enhancing safety.
Fire Resistance
Lightweight forms simplify assembly, reduce construction steps, and shorten build times.
Fast and Efficient Construction
ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) construction is a modern building method that combines the strength of reinforced concrete with the comfort and energy efficiency of EPS insulation.
In an ICF system, builders use hollow blocks or panels made from rigid foam insulation (usually expanded polystyrene, or EPS). These forms are stacked like giant LEGO® bricks to shape the walls of a building.
Once the walls are assembled and reinforced with steel rebar, concrete is poured into the hollow centers. The EPS forms stay in place permanently, providing continuous insulation on both sides of the concrete.
The result is a solid, highly insulated, and extremely durable wall that can be finished inside and out like any other construction type.
TSD are leaders in the design of ICF structures in Ireland and the UK, having designing hundreds of ICF Structures over the last 20 years. We have a wealth of knowledge and experience using this modern construction method to deliver cost efficient design solutions for our clients.
We work with all major Irish ICF manufacturers, including Amvic, Altherm, Thermohouse and Castleforms, as well as some British and European manufacturers. We collaborate closely with architects, builders, and developers to design ICF structures that optimize performance, reduce waste, and enhance comfort.
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ICF walls are solid reinforced concrete, far stronger than typical wood-frame walls.
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They can withstand extreme weather, including high winds and hurricanes
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They resist rot, and rust, since there’s no wood in the wall system.
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Many ICF buildings are designed to last centuries, not decades.
Exceptional Strength and Durability
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Continuous insulation on both sides of the wall eliminates “thermal bridges” where heat normally escapes.
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Typical ICF walls have an R-value of 20–30 (sometimes higher).
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The concrete core also acts as a thermal mass, storing heat during the day and releasing it slowly at night.
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This creates a more stable indoor temperature and can cut heating and cooling costs by 30–50%.
Superior Energy Efficiency
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The dense concrete and foam layers make ICF walls excellent sound barriers.
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Outside noise—traffic, neighbours, or storms—is greatly reduced.
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The walls also prevent drafts and temperature swings, leading to a quieter, more comfortable home.
Quiet and Comfortable Living
Fire Resistance
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Concrete doesn’t burn, and ICF walls typically have fire ratings of 2 to 4 hours.
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The foam insulation is treated with flame retardants and is protected by finishes like plasterboard or renders
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This gives occupants more time to escape and helps limit fire damage to the structure.
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Reduced energy use leads to lower utility bills year after year.
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The tight, well-insulated envelope also means smaller HVAC systems may be utilized.
Lower Operating Costs
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Less energy consumption means fewer carbon emissions over the building’s lifetime.
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Some ICF systems use recycled materials in their foam or concrete.
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The long lifespan and energy efficiency of ICF buildings contribute to sustainable construction.
Environmentally Friendly
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The lightweight blocks are easy to handle and stack, even without heavy machinery.
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Since the forms also serve as insulation, fewer steps are needed (no separate framing, sheathing, and insulating).
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This can speed up construction time by weeks compared to traditional methods.
Fast and Efficient Construction
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ICF can be used for residential, commercial, or institutional buildings.
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It supports any architectural style - from modern minimalist homes to traditional designs.
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Openings for windows, curved walls, and custom layouts are easily achieved.
Design Flexibility
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