Build a Stronger, Safer, & More Sustainable Structure
Better Builders of Oregon, Inc. has been building green for the past 20 years, before 'green' was a buzz word. We have been specializing in green building, and in particular ICF (Insulating Concrete Forms) construction, for the past 18 years working on projects around the state of Oregon.
We have more technical experience with ICF construction and products than other contractors in the business.
In addition to ICF construction, we have a wealth of knowledge and experience with other green building methods, energy systems, materials, and construction techniques such as AAC, SIPS, solar, geothermal heating, etc. We have numerous industry contacts, up to date technical resources, and strong professional associations having worked in the green building field for the past 23 years here in Oregon.
We can walk you through your options and discuss your goals for a energy efficient building.
We have more technical experience with ICF construction and products than other contractors in the business.
In addition to ICF construction, we have a wealth of knowledge and experience with other green building methods, energy systems, materials, and construction techniques such as AAC, SIPS, solar, geothermal heating, etc. We have numerous industry contacts, up to date technical resources, and strong professional associations having worked in the green building field for the past 23 years here in Oregon.
We can walk you through your options and discuss your goals for a energy efficient building.
Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF) Construction
Ideal construction material for the Pacific Northwest
ICF systems are hollow expanded polystyrene blocks stacked to shape basements, the exterior, and some interior walls of a building. Reinforced bar is secured in the center of the blocks which are then filled with concrete. We have used many different types of building systems and have found ICF to have a great advantage over traditional wood frame construction.
Some important ICF advantages are:
Some important ICF advantages are:
- 25-50% more energy efficient = less energy &money to heat/cool your home
- Safer because of a 3-4 hour fire rating
- 0 air infiltration through walls
- 8 1/2 stronger than wood or steel framing
- Will never rot, mold or mildew so perfect for the Pacific Northwest
- Insect resistent
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Please click on the links below for more information from industry associations on the benefits of ICF construction:
Other Green Building Approaches
Structural insulated panels (SIPS) are a high performance building system consisting of an insulating foam core sandwiched between two structural facings, typically oriented strand board (OSB). SIPs are manufactured under factory controlled conditions and can be fabricated to fit nearly any building design. Advantages SIPs have over typical wood frame construction are:
Autoclave Aerated Concrete (AAC) AAC is a highly thermally insulating concrete-based material used for both internal and external construction. Besides AAC's insulating capability, one of its advantages in construction is its quick and easy installation, because the material can be routed, sanded, or cut to size on site using standard carbon steel power tools.
Feel safe and clean indoors. Materials you chose for the interiors are what you see and feel everyday. We have used douglas fir or cedar trim packages, wool carpeting, locally made custom tile and lighting, marmoleum flooring, low UV paints, etc. We can source just about any product you want for your home - just ask!
- Higher R-values (insulation values)
- Higher strength-to-weight ratio
- Between 12-14% energy savings
- Quieter and more comfortable structure
- Faster construction method
Autoclave Aerated Concrete (AAC) AAC is a highly thermally insulating concrete-based material used for both internal and external construction. Besides AAC's insulating capability, one of its advantages in construction is its quick and easy installation, because the material can be routed, sanded, or cut to size on site using standard carbon steel power tools.
Feel safe and clean indoors. Materials you chose for the interiors are what you see and feel everyday. We have used douglas fir or cedar trim packages, wool carpeting, locally made custom tile and lighting, marmoleum flooring, low UV paints, etc. We can source just about any product you want for your home - just ask!
Our Services
As a green building expert and speciality contractor, we can provide the following services for your project:
- Design + Build Services
- General contracting for your new home or business.
- Research and recommendations on construction methods and material options
- Technical training sessions on ICF design and construction to architects, designers, home owners, home building associations, etc.
- ICF technical consultant for contractors or owners on ICF projects
- Stacking ICF walls for projects.
- Zoning and land use approvals: Should your project require zoning or land use approvals, we have over 20 years of experience with zoning and land use application submittal and approvals.