Category Insulated Concrete Forms

In a powerful symbol of resilience and innovation, Lytton Mayor Denise O’Connor has moved into her newly rebuilt home nearly four years after the devastating wildfire that destroyed 90% of the village in June 2021. The home features insulated concrete forms (ICFs) supplied by Performance ICF, marking a significant step in Lytton’s journey toward a fire-resilient future.

The 2021 wildfire, fueled by extreme heat and high winds, swept through Lytton with unprecedented speed, leaving residents with mere minutes to evacuate. The disaster not only razed homes and businesses but also deeply impacted the community’s spirit. Rebuilding efforts faced numerous challenges, including debris removal, soil remediation, and archaeological assessments, delaying reconstruction for years.

Mayor O’Connor’s new home stands as a testament to the community’s determination to rebuild stronger and smarter. The use of ICFs—interlocking foam blocks filled with reinforced concrete—provides superior fire resistance, energy efficiency, and durability. These qualities are essential for a community like Lytton, aiming to mitigate future wildfire risks and promote sustainable living.

Performance ICF supplied the insulated concrete forms for the mayor’s home. These forms offer continuous insulation, airtight construction, and enhanced structural integrity, contributing to lower energy bills and increased comfort. Performance ICF’s involvement underscores the growing recognition of insulated concrete forms as a viable solution for building resilient communities.

John May and South Pier Frameworks brought their expertise to the project, ensuring that the construction met the highest standards of quality and safety. Their commitment to excellence played a crucial role in bringing the mayor’s vision to life.

The story of Mayor O’Connor’s new home was featured in a CBC News segment highlighting the collaborative efforts that made this milestone possible. As Lytton continues its recovery, this home serves as an inspiring example of how innovative building practices and community determination can pave the way for a safer, more sustainable future.

For more information on Performance ICF visit our contact page today!

When it comes to building with insulated concrete forms (ICFs), one of the biggest challenges is keeping the walls straight and secure during the concrete pour. Many systems on the market require a mix of exterior bracing—strapping, plywood, vertical supports, and other materials that add time, cost, and clutter to the job site.

Quad-Lock has taken a different approach.

Quad-Lock’s corner brackets are a game changer!  Designed exclusively for use with Quad-Lock ICF, they eliminate the need for exterior reinforcement altogether. Instead, Quad-Lock uses an outside corner bracket and an inside corner bracket that work together to provide exceptional strength and alignment during the pour. It’s efficient, easy to use, and built right into the wall structure.

So, what makes this such a big deal?

Less Labour, Lower Cost

Because there’s no need to build temporary support structures with lumber and strapping, the amount of labour required on-site drops dramatically. You’re not hauling materials around, making custom cuts, or taking time to remove it all after the pour. With these corner brackets, you’re ready to pour faster—and you’re spending less on extra materials and manpower.

Clean and Uncluttered

External bracing can be bulky and awkward, especially when space is tight or access is limited. When used for internal bracing, the corner brackets keep the worksite clean and organized. They also reduce the risk of damage to insulation panels or the exterior face of the wall, which can sometimes occur when using traditional wood bracing methods.

Strong, Straight Walls—Every Time

The inside and outside brackets lock the ICF panels firmly in place, ensuring the wall holds its shape throughout the pour. This means fewer blowouts, fewer surprises, and less stress on pour day. It also ensures the walls come out straight and true, making your finish work easier and more precise.

Built for Quad-Lock

The corner brackets are exclusive to Quad-Lock. They been engineered specifically for Quad-Lock’s ICF forms and integrate seamlessly with the rest of the Quad-Lock system. It’s not an add-on or afterthought—it’s part of the reason Quad-Lock is known for durable, high-performance builds.

Smarter Building Starts Here

Quad-Lock is always looking for ways to make the building process faster, easier, and more efficient. Corner brackets are just one more way to help builders deliver top-quality work without unnecessary hassle or expense.

Looking to simplify your next ICF project? Go with the system that’s built to brace from the inside out.  Contact us at Performance ICF today!

Builders, if you haven’t worked with Quad-Lock insulated concrete forms (ICFs) yet, you might be surprised at how simple they are to install. These lightweight, interlocking blocks stack together like LEGO, creating a solid, energy-efficient structure with minimal effort. Once the forms are in place, concrete is poured inside, locking everything together into a high-performance wall system.

The installation process is straightforward. Unlike traditional framing, where you have to frame, insulate, and sheathe separately, Quad-Lock ICF combines these steps into one. The forms provide built-in insulation, eliminating the need for additional materials and reducing labor costs. Plus, they’re easy to cut and shape on-site, making customization simple.

ICFs also speed up your build time. The blocks are large, covering more surface area per step compared to wood framing. And because they’re lightweight and easy to handle, crews can work efficiently without needing heavy machinery. Once the concrete cures, you’ve got a durable, airtight wall that’s ready for finishes inside and out.

Not all ICFs are created equal, though. Quad-Lock stands out from other manufacturers with its superior strength, higher insulation values, and flexible design options. Its panels are more rigid and durable, reducing blowouts during concrete pours, and the system allows for thicker walls to meet the highest energy efficiency and safety standards.

Beyond the simplicity of installation, Quad-Lock ICF delivers long-term benefits for homeowners—superior energy efficiency, quiet interiors, and unmatched durability. And as more homeowners demand energy-efficient, disaster-resilient homes, using ICF gives you an edge in the market.

If you’re looking for a way to streamline construction while delivering a high-quality, high-performance home, it’s time to take a serious look at Quad-Lock ICF. Simple to install, built to last—what’s not to love?

Contact us today at (604) 607-8600 for your free quote.  Send us your plans through our contact page. 

Exciting progress is happening in Chilliwack! Sonbuilt Custom Homes is constructing a full Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) home, and we at Performance ICF are thrilled to be part of the journey. As a proud Quad-Lock dealer, we love seeing high-performance homes take shape using Quad-Lock’s superior ICF system.

The Build So Far

Construction is well underway, with the crawlspace concrete now poured—a solid foundation for this energy-efficient home. Next, the walls will be formed using Quad-Lock ICF, providing unmatched insulation, durability, and strength. A full ICF home means superior energy efficiency, soundproofing, and indoor air quality, making it a smart choice for long-term comfort and sustainability.

Why Quad-Lock ICF?

Quad-Lock is a Canadian-owned company known for producing high-performance ICF systems. Their insulated concrete forms create airtight, highly efficient homes that stand up to Canada’s diverse climate. The benefits of building with Quad-Lock include:

• Energy Efficiency – Drastically reduces heating and cooling costs year-round.
• Soundproofing – Keeps outside noise where it belongs—outside.
• Fire Resistance – Provides excellent fire protection for added peace of mind.
• Strength & Durability – Reinforced concrete walls offer unmatched resilience.

Watching the Progress

Seeing a full ICF home come to life is always exciting, and this project in Chilliwack is no exception. The next steps will involve forming and pouring the ICF walls, bringing this energy-efficient home closer to completion.

Stay tuned as we continue following the progress of this build. We can’t wait to see the final result!

Interested in building with ICF? Contact Us at Performance ICF today to learn more about how Quad-Lock can help you create a stronger, more energy-efficient home.

When it comes to buying a home, today’s savvy buyers aren’t just looking for square footage or a pretty façade—they’re seeking quality, comfort, and energy efficiency. That’s why a home built with insulated concrete forms (ICF) stands out in the market. As a real estate agent, showcasing these benefits can help you attract the right buyers and close the sale faster.

Revolutionizing the Way Homes Are Built

ICF construction is revolutionizing the way homes are built. Unlike traditional wood framing, ICF uses reinforced concrete sandwiched between layers of insulation. This creates a home that is stronger, quieter, and more energy-efficient than its conventionally built counterparts. For prospective buyers, this means lower energy bills, exceptional durability, and year-round comfort.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a top priority for modern homebuyers, and ICF homes excel in this area. The continuous insulation and airtight construction result in reduced heating and cooling costs. Buyers will appreciate the long-term savings and the home’s smaller carbon footprint—a win-win for their wallet and the environment.

Peace of Mind

But it’s not just about energy efficiency. ICF homes also provide superior soundproofing and withstand extreme weather conditions, offering peace of mind in regions prone to storms or natural disasters. Additionally, the walls resist mold and pests, making the home healthier and easier to maintain.

Focus on Benefits

When marketing an ICF-built home, focus on its benefits. Use phrases like “low utility bills,” “quiet and serene living,” “built to last,” and “healthier indoor air quality.” Highlight how ICF construction aligns with their priorities for sustainability and comfort.

By emphasizing these advantages, you’ll not only sell the house—you’ll also sell the dream of owning a home that truly delivers on quality, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Contact Us

For more information, contact our sales manager, Ryan, at (604) 607-8600 or visit the contact page of our website and submit your plans for a free quote. 

When it comes to building a home or commercial property, ease of installation can make or break a project. While traditional construction methods can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, insulated concrete forms (ICF) are revolutionizing the industry with their simplicity and efficiency. Many builders, contractors, and even DIY enthusiasts are discovering that installing Quad-Lock ICF is not just easy—it’s a game-changer for modern construction.

1. Pre-Assembled Convenience

One of the standout features of ICF is that the forms come ready to use. Whether you’re working with blocks or panels, there’s no need for additional preparation. This means:

• No On-Site Cutting or Shaping: Unlike wood framing or masonry, ICF forms don’t require extensive modifications on-site. The pre-assembled forms are easy to stack and align.
• Fewer Materials to Handle: The forms combine insulation and concrete structure into one product, reducing the need for multiple materials and steps.
• Minimal Tools Required: Installing ICF doesn’t require heavy-duty equipment—basic construction tools like a saw, drill, and level are usually enough.

For builders, this translates to a faster, smoother workflow, while DIYers benefit from a simplified process that’s easy to follow.

2. Lightweight and Easy to Handle

Traditional construction materials like bricks, blocks, and lumber can be heavy and cumbersome, requiring significant manpower to move and position. In contrast, ICF forms are lightweight and easy to handle.

• Foam Construction: Made from expanded polystyrene (EPS), ICF forms are incredibly lightweight, allowing even a single person to carry and place them with ease.
• Faster Assembly: Their manageable size and weight make stacking and aligning the forms a quick process, significantly reducing labor time.
• Perfect for Tight Spaces: On smaller sites where maneuvering heavy materials is challenging, ICF’s lightweight nature provides a clear advantage.

This user-friendly design ensures that even smaller crews can tackle large-scale projects efficiently.

3. Simple Assembly Process

One of the reasons ICF is considered effortless is its intuitive assembly process. The forms are designed to fit together seamlessly, like building blocks.

• Stacking: The forms are simply stacked on top of each other to create walls. The interlocking design ensures they stay securely in place during the pour.
• Alignment: The forms include built-in guides and markings, making it easy to ensure proper alignment.
• Customizable: For areas that require custom shapes or sizes, the forms can be easily cut with a saw, ensuring precise fits around doors, windows, and corners.

This straightforward assembly process eliminates many of the challenges associated with traditional framing and masonry.

4. Time-Saving Benefits

ICF installation isn’t just easy—it’s also a major time-saver. By streamlining multiple construction steps, ICF can significantly reduce overall project timelines.

• All-in-One Solution: With ICF, the wall structure, insulation, and concrete reinforcement are completed in a single step. There’s no need to install insulation or drywall separately.
• Quick Pour Process: Once the forms are in place, pouring concrete into the walls is a fast and efficient process.
• Reduced Labor Needs: Since ICF is simple to assemble, smaller teams can handle larger projects, cutting down on labor costs and time.

For builders working on tight deadlines, these time-saving benefits can make a huge difference.

5. No Specialized Skills Required

One of the most appealing aspects of ICF installation is that it doesn’t require specialized skills or extensive training.

• DIY-Friendly: Homeowners who are comfortable with basic tools and construction techniques can install ICF on their own, making it an accessible option for DIY projects.
• Minimal Learning Curve: Builders transitioning from traditional methods will find ICF installation easy to pick up, with most systems offering guides and tutorials.
• Technical Support: Many ICF manufacturers, including Quad-Lock, provide detailed manuals, videos, and customer support to help users at every step of the process.   

This accessibility makes ICF a versatile option for a wide range of projects and users. For builders and homeowners alike, a clean worksite means less stress and fewer delays.

Conclusion

The ease of installing insulated concrete forms (ICF) is one of the many reasons they are gaining popularity among builders, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts. From their lightweight design and simple assembly process to their time-saving and cost-effective benefits, ICF systems take the hassle out of construction.

Whether you’re working on a residential home, a commercial property, or a DIY project, ICF offers a user-friendly solution that doesn’t compromise on performance or durability. With ICF, effortless building is no longer just a dream—it’s a reality.

So, if you’re planning your next construction project, consider ICF as the smart, efficient choice that saves time, effort, and resources while delivering outstanding results. 

Contact us today at (604) 607-8600 or submit your plans through the Contact Page of our website for a free quote.

November is Radon Action Month, a month dedicated to spreading awareness on the dangers of radon.

When we think about the air quality in our homes, we often think about dust, allergens, or even VOCs from paint and furniture. But there’s another invisible danger we should be mindful of: radon gas. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground, posing significant health risks over time. The good news? Construction techniques and materials—like Quad-Lock Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) — can help mitigate radon infiltration, creating a safer and healthier home environment.

What is Radon and Why Should You Care?

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that forms from the natural decay of uranium in soil and rock. It’s present at low levels in the air outdoors, but it can accumulate to dangerous levels indoors, especially in basements or lower levels of homes. High radon exposure has been linked to lung cancer, making it a serious concern for homeowners.

Because radon enters homes through cracks and gaps in foundations, one of the most effective ways to combat it is by creating an airtight, well-sealed foundation system. This is where Quad-Lock ICF comes in.

How Quad-Lock ICF Reduces Radon Infiltration

Quad-Lock ICF is designed to build walls and foundations that are not only energy-efficient but also airtight. Here’s how it helps in the fight against radon:

1. Exceptional Airtightness Quad-Lock ICF blocks are built with an interlocking design that creates a seamless, airtight barrier. This prevents the entry of radon gas by eliminating gaps and cracks that traditional foundations can develop over time. The result is a home that is tightly sealed from the ground up, minimizing radon’s pathway into your living space.
2. Durability Over Time Unlike materials like wood or standard concrete that can develop cracks with age, ICF blocks are made to last. The expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam in Quad-Lock ICF resists shifting, cracking, and settling. This long-term durability means fewer potential entry points for radon over the lifespan of your home.
3. Enhanced Insulation and Vapor Barrier Quad-Lock ICF is engineered with a thick layer of insulation, offering more than just energy efficiency benefits. This insulation also acts as an added barrier against radon and other soil gases. Additionally, because of the vapor-resistant properties of the foam, moisture intrusion is minimized, which further reduces the likelihood of cracks forming over time due to moisture-related expansion and contraction.
4. Built-In Radon Mitigation Compatibility If you’re building with Quad-Lock ICF, integrating a radon mitigation system during construction becomes easier. Quad-Lock’s designs can incorporate passive or active radon mitigation systems, such as ventilation pipes that vent radon gases safely outside the home. Pairing ICF with a radon mitigation system can make your home even safer and give you peace of mind.  Please visit the website for Radon Environmental Management Corp. for mitigation options.

Benefits Beyond Radon Reduction

By choosing Quad-Lock ICF, you’re not only reducing radon levels but also investing in a healthier, more comfortable home. Here are some additional benefits:

• Energy Efficiency: Quad-Lock ICF provides superior insulation, which means lower energy bills and a more comfortable indoor environment all year round.
• Noise Reduction: The thick, insulated walls reduce outside noise, creating a quieter, more peaceful home.
• Environmental Sustainability: ICF construction is energy-efficient and can be made from recycled materials, which lowers the environmental footprint of your home.

Building a Radon-Resistant Home with Quad-Lock ICF

For new construction, Quad-Lock ICF can be an integral part of your approach to radon reduction. In areas known for high radon levels, or if you’re simply committed to a healthy indoor environment, using ICF for your foundation and basement walls is a smart choice. Even in existing homes, renovating with ICF in areas like basements can offer significant radon protection and other long-term benefits.

Final Thoughts

Your home is your sanctuary, and keeping it safe and healthy should be a priority. Reducing radon levels is a step toward better indoor air quality, and with Quad-Lock ICF, you’re not only building a stronger, more energy-efficient home but also one that protects your family from invisible dangers. So, if you’re considering a new home or a renovation, talk to us at Performance ICF, a certified Quad-Lock ICF dealer about how this system can contribute to a safer and more sustainable living environment.

Net-zero energy homes—those that generate as much clean energy as they consume—are more than just a trend; they’re the future of construction. Beyond the obvious environmental benefits, they also offer homeowners long-term savings and greater comfort. But achieving this level of energy efficiency, especially in colder regions, requires some careful planning and innovative building techniques. That’s where Quad-Lock insulated concrete forms (ICFs) come into play.

Why Build a Net-Zero Home?

Net-zero homes are often called the “future of housing,” and for good reason. They’re designed to be highly energy-efficient, with up to 80% better efficiency than a standard home, according to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association.

Here’s what you can expect from living in a net-zero home:

• Lower Utility Bills: These homes significantly reduce your energy consumption, which means lower bills year-round. Plus, they shield you from rising energy costs in the future.
• Unmatched Comfort: One of the most appealing features is how comfortable they are. No more cold drafts or uneven temperatures in different rooms. Even during power outages, net-zero homes can maintain stable indoor temperatures.
• Peace and Quiet: Thanks to superior insulation, noise pollution from things like traffic or lawnmowers is minimized. You’ll appreciate the quiet that comes with living in a well-insulated home.
• Environmentally Friendly: Net-zero homes help combat climate change by reducing carbon footprints and conserving natural resources.

Why ICFs Are Key to Net-Zero Homes

If you’re aiming to build a net-zero home, the efficiency of the building envelope—the barrier between the interior and exterior—is crucial. That’s why so many net-zero builders turn to insulated concrete forms (ICFs), particularly Quad-Lock.

ICFs provide exceptional thermal performance, often described as “greater than the sum of its parts.” Sure, insulation matters, but the overall performance of the wall assembly is even more critical.

What Makes Quad-Lock Stand Out?

Here’s how Quad-Lock’s insulated concrete forms help achieve net-zero efficiency:

• Continuous Insulation: In traditional framed walls, insulation value is often compromised by gaps and studs that act as thermal bridges. With Quad-Lock ICFs, the exterior layer maintains a consistent thickness, so the stated R-value is what you truly get with no thermal bridging.
• Air Tightness: Leaky walls are a major source of energy loss, especially in wood-framed construction where air can seep through sheathing joints and cracks that develop over time. Even spray foam insulation doesn’t fully solve the problem. But with Quad-Lock, the continuous exterior insulation and air barriers make the walls virtually airtight, preventing unnecessary energy loss.
• Thermal Mass: One of the unique advantages of concrete is its ability to store heat and release it slowly over time, creating a 5-day thermal lag. This means the home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer, reducing the overall energy demand.

Wrapping It Up

Net-zero energy homes represent the future of sustainable building, and ICFs are a vital part of achieving this vision. With Quad-Lock’s innovative ICF blocks, builders and homeowners can enjoy superior insulation, quicker construction times, and lower overall costs—all while making a positive impact on the environment.

Quad-Lock’s ICFs have proven themselves to be a game-changer. They provide the kind of high-performance insulation required to make net-zero homes a reality. If you’re thinking about building a net-zero home, Quad-Lock ICFs might just be your best bet.

Be sure to contact us today with your next Net-Zero Energy build!

Ever heard of Quad-Deck by Quad-Lock? If not, imagine building a house that’s strong, safe, and comfortable. That’s what Quad-Deck can do! Let’s dive in and find out why using Quad-Deck is a great idea for building new homes.

What is Quad-Deck, Anyway?

Think of Quad-Deck as a superhero material for building houses. It’s a floor system made of special foam and concrete. Foam keeps the house warm and cozy, while concrete makes it strong and sturdy. Put them together, and you get Quad-Deck—a material that’s ready to take on any challenge!

Why Should We Use Quad-Deck?

Here are some performance based reasons why using Quad-Deck is a game changer:

1. Super Strong!
   Quad-Deck is like the Hulk of building materials. It’s very strong, which means it can handle a lot of weight and won’t break easily. This makes it perfect for floors and roofs that need to support lots of stuff, like furniture or large groups of people.
2. Keeps Your House Cozy
   Ever been in a house that’s too hot in summer or too cold in winter? Not cool, right? Quad-Deck helps keep your house at just the right temperature. The foam inside acts like a warm blanket in the winter and a cool shade in the summer, so you don’t have to crank up the heater or air conditioner all the time. That’s great news for your comfort and your wallets!
3. Safe and Sound
   Quad-Deck is also like a shield—it’s fire-resistant! If a fire starts, the Quad-Deck can help stop the fire from spreading too quickly. It’s like having a firefighter on standby all the time. Plus, it makes your house quieter by blocking out a lot of the noise from outside. Imagine being able to focus without hearing cars honking or dogs barking!
4. Good for the Planet
   Who doesn’t want to be a hero for the Earth? Quad-Deck helps you do just that! It uses less energy to keep your house warm or cool, which means less electricity and a smaller carbon footprint!
5. Fast and Fun to Build With
   Building with Quad-Deck is like putting together a giant LEGO set. The pieces fit together easily, which means the builders can put up the floors and roofs quickly. Less time building means more time enjoying your awesome new home!

Imagine the Possibilities!

Think about it: A house built with Quad-Deck is like a fort that’s super safe, warm, quiet, and strong. Whether you’re entertaining your friends, reading your favorite book, or just hanging out, your home will be the perfect place to be. Plus, knowing that your house is good for the planet makes it even cooler!

So, next time you hear about building a new home, remember the name Quad-Deck. It’s the superhero of building materials, and it’s here to make homes stronger, safer, and just plain awesome!

We are excited to be supplying Quad-Lock ICFs to Citadel Developments for a stunning custom home in the beautiful city of Abbotsford, British Columbia. Nestled in the heart of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford is a city that seamlessly blends modern innovation with natural beauty, and we’re proud to be part of its transformation toward sustainable living.

Why Choose Quad-Lock ICF?

There is so much potential with Quad-Lock insulated concrete forms.   This is a building system that uses interlocking foam panels, which are filled with reinforced concrete.  The possibilities for design are virtually endless and result in a home that is incredibly strong, energy-efficient, and sound-insulated.

Building a Better Home

The Citadel team is well experienced in building with Quad-Lock.  The excellent thermal insulation provided by ICF’s minimizes thermal bridging, ensuring that indoor temperatures remain consistent year-round. This not only results in lower utility bills but also contributes to a smaller carbon footprint—something we all care about deeply.

Unmatched Durability and Safety

An ICF home is incredibly durable. The combination of concrete and foam creates a structure that can withstand Abbotsford’s diverse weather conditions, from heavy rain to strong winds and even seismic activity. The fire resistance of this ICF home provides an added layer of safety. Concrete doesn’t burn, and the foam insulation is treated with flame retardants. This home is not only durable but also safe, giving the homeowners peace of mind.

Looking Ahead

We are confident this sustainable building method will become a standard in residential construction. Thank you to Citadel Developments for allowing us to be a part of this home building journey.