• 1.1: Home
• 1.3: Concrete
  • 1.3.1: Contractors
• 1.4: Concrete Products
  • 1.4.1: Insulated Concrete Forms
  • 1.4.2: Construction Chemicals
  • 1.4.3: Concrete Colorants
  • 1.4.4: Flo-Through Trench Drains
  • 1.4.5: Form-A-Drain
  • 1.4.6: Insul-Deck
  • 1.4.7: Soff-Cut Saws
  • 1.4.8: Retaining Wall Block
• 1.5: Insulated Concrete Forms
  • 1.5.1: What is an insulated concrete form?
  • 1.5.2: Cost Comparison
  • 1.5.3: Media
  • 1.5.4: Upcoming Seminars
• 1.6: Contact Us
  • 1.6.1: Employment

The Quality of Concrete Costs Little More

According to a recent research study conducted by the National Association of Homebuilders Research Center (see the table below), an experienced contractor can build a concrete home for as little as 1 to 5 percent more than wood-frame. Although your mortgage payment will be slightly more, you can offset these costs with reduced energy, insurance, and maintenance costs. The table below compares the monthly costs of owning an average-size wood-frame home to that of an energy efficient concrete home. The additional monthly cost of owning the concrete home is only $1-a small price to pay for the added safety, quiet, and comfort.

Monthly Housing Cost Example
(Source: National Association of Home Builders)

Resale Value

If you ever sell your concrete home you're likely to regain all of your investment. A recent study conducted by ICF Consulting Group indicates that energy efficient homes have higher market value than comparable homes that aren't as energy efficient. The study concludes that for every $1 decrease in annual energy bills the market value of a home increases between $10 and $25. That means that if you save $500 per year on your energy bills, your house could be worth $5,000 to $12,500 more than a conventionally built home.