Why We Choose Nudura ICF: The Best Insulated Concrete Form System

Not all ICF blocks are created equal. While the basic concept is the same—foam forms filled with reinforced concrete—the engineering details make a significant difference in construction speed, structural integrity, and long-term performance.

After years of building with various ICF systems, Austin Touchstone Builders exclusively uses Nudura Insulated Concrete Forms. Here's why:

Superior Interlocking Design

Nudura's patented Durafold Technology creates the industry's most secure form-to-form connection. The forms interlock on all six sides, creating a monolithic structure that:

• Eliminates foam blowouts during concrete pours
• Maintains perfect alignment throughout construction
• Reduces labor time and installation errors
• Creates a stronger finished wall system

We've experienced blowouts with other ICF brands—it's messy, expensive, and delays projects. With Nudura, we've had zero blowouts across dozens of projects.

Industry-Leading Insulation Values

Nudura offers multiple foam thickness options to match climate needs:

• Standard (2.5" + 2.5"): R-23.59 continuous insulation
• Plus (2.5" + 3.5"): R-28.47 continuous insulation
• XR Series: Up to R-35 for extreme climates

For Texas, we typically specify the standard configuration, which provides exceptional performance while optimizing cost. The continuous insulation eliminates thermal bridging—a problem that plagues wood frame construction.

Built-In Furring Strips

Nudura forms include integrated high-density polyethylene furring strips every 8 inches on center. These strips:

• Accept any screw or nail for finishing attachment
• Won't rot, rust, or degrade over time
• Maintain structural integrity through the life of the building
• Eliminate the need for additional furring or strapping

This matters for long-term maintenance. When you need to hang a picture, install a TV mount, or make repairs decades from now, those furring strips will be exactly where you expect them.

Fire and Safety Performance

Nudura ICF walls achieve a 4-hour fire rating—the highest available for residential construction. The EPS foam is treated with flame retardants that cause it to self-extinguish rather than contribute fuel to a fire.

Additionally, Nudura's airtight construction means fire can't find the oxygen pathways that exist in frame walls. Fires that might race through a conventional home's wall cavities are stopped cold by solid concrete.

Environmental Responsibility

Nudura is committed to sustainability:

• Recycled content: Forms contain post-industrial recycled material
• Zero ozone-depleting agents: Manufacturing uses no HCFCs or HFCs
• Reduced construction waste: Modular forms minimize job site waste
• Energy savings: 50%+ reduction in heating/cooling over building lifetime

The energy saved over a home's lifetime far exceeds the embodied energy of manufacturing.

Manufacturer Support

Nudura provides exceptional training and technical support. Their engineering team has helped us solve complex design challenges, from the curved walls of the GSR Observatory to custom architectural details.

This support isn't available from all ICF manufacturers, and it makes a real difference when tackling unique projects.

Our Track Record with Nudura

We've used Nudura ICF on every concrete project for years, including:

• Award-winning GSR Observatory (curved walls, 3 stories)
• Custom Hill Country residences
• Net-zero ready homes throughout Central Texas
• Commercial and agricultural structures

The consistency and reliability of Nudura allows us to confidently quote projects and deliver on our promises.