Fred & Sandy Johnson House

So what is one of the benefits of working as an IT expert for the North Dakota Ready Mix & Concrete Products Association, Inc? The answer is, “You learn a lot about what can be done with concrete”. So, when Fred & Sandy were planning a new home, Fred was already familiar with concrete options for home building. It was almost just a matter of choosing which insulated concrete form (ICF) system to use for their project. It was quickly apparent that quite a few systems would make do, and that many were easy enough for a first timer to get the project done right. The commitment to build it themselves with help from friends and family turned out to be a good one. No major problems developed during construction of their two story ranch style, 4500 square foot home. With outside walls almost 19 feet high which accomodate a daylight basment, and they are now at at home with the ultimate in comfort in their new concrete structure.

Their decision to build a concrete home using insulated concrete forms has been a wise choice. One of the first noticeable benefits is the quality of the living space on the lower level, normally considered a basement. A family room with big screen TV is a primary destination for leisure time and movie viewing. Because of the energy efficiency of the ICF wall system, no cold spots are noticeable while using the family room or any other space in the lower level. It’s as if Fred and Sandy have twice the quality livable space compared to normal homes with cold basements. Throughout the house, there are absolutely no drafts.And Fred and Sandy note s that energy consumption with the propane fired heat pump with propane backup and the electric micro boiler and for the hydronic floor heat system is similar to his their previous stick-frame home, which had less than one half the space.

But, what about the other benefits of concrete home living? Don’t bother to honk the horn of your car to attract their attention inside. They won’t hear it. And walls that are 10 times stronger than stick-frame options will provide protection in a tornado like no other. The list could go on, but just ask them from their perspective. You will find a pair of very happy homeowners.