Sustainable construction is more than a trend—it’s the industry’s future. LEED certification is becoming the standard for developing sustainable buildings and demonstrating their value. Insulated concrete forms offer construction systems that can go a long way toward achieving these goals. This post will explore how SuperForm ICFs can help you get LEED certification in Canada.
Getting LEED Certification in Canada With SuperForm ICF
LEED provides a set of globally recognized standards for sustainable building. It evaluates projects on energy efficiency, water conservation, material selection, indoor air quality, and site sustainability. Projects can obtain points based on these factors and achieve different certification levels depending on their score. The certification levels include Certified (40), Silver (50), Gold (60), and Platinum (80).
Let’s explore how SuperForm can help your project achieve LEED certification.
Site Sustainability
These credits focus on minimizing the environmental impact during construction. The smaller development footprint can help builders achieve these goals. Building with ICFs often requires less excavation and soil disturbance when preparing the site. The bracing systems also require less construction activity around the forms.
Recycled Materials
LEED offers points for projects that incorporate recycled materials. SuperForm performs well because we integrate recycled materials into the manufacturing process. Additionally, the concrete for ICF systems can incorporate a high percentage of materials like fly ash, further increasing the percentage of recycled materials on the project.
Durable Buildings
Canada’s LEED program offers credits for durable buildings. They reduce waste by preventing early failure of structures and their components. Because concrete and EPS foam are moisture-resistant, ICFs can contribute to these goals. That means fewer issues with mold, mildew, and deterioration. In addition, the concrete cores are strong for disaster-resistant construction.
Energy Savings
Energy efficiency has the potential to offer more LEED points than any other factor, making it a cornerstone of certification. With superior R-values, thermal mass, and tighter building envelopes, SuperForm ICF provides the necessary efficiency. ICF walls reduce energy loss and the operating costs associated with heating and cooling.
Indoor Environment
Another factor ICFs can help with is the quality of the indoor environment. Their airtight construction minimizes drafts and leakage, creating a stable interior climate. This consistency improves ventilation effectiveness and indoor comfort. Additionally, ICF walls prevent the infiltration of allergens, pollutants, and moisture, supporting healthier indoor air.
With so many benefits, ICFs can go a long way toward helping you achieve LEED certification. Many of the highest-scoring projects use ICFs. As a leader in innovation and sustainability, SuperForm ICF is a top choice for LEED projects.
Are you interested in using insulated concrete forms for a construction project? Click here to contact the team from SuperForm. Our innovative ICF system outperforms the competition in several ways. Reach out now to learn more about the benefits of SuperForm ICFs.
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