ICF & Us


We know ICF.

After decades of building, we now specialize in Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction, building structures exceeding expectations. Traditional construction cannot match the strength, durability and energy efficiency of ICF built structures. We aim to build homes supplying pride and pleasure to owner and builder.

What is ICF?

ICF represents the strongest, most durable and energy efficient basic building block available today.  It stands for Insulated Concrete Form and is composed of two layers of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam connected by either steel or polypropylene ties.  The blocks are shaped, stacked, steel reinforced, braced, and then poured with an ICF concrete mix.  The foam and ties stay in place to provide permanent insulation and connection points for the interior and exterior finishes of your choice.

ICF construction provides unmatched thermal efficiency, storm security, earthquake resistance, comfort, and architectural design.

Nationwide, the cost of ICF construction is estimated at 4-10% more than typical 2x4 stick frame construction.  However, we believe that number to be excessive and completely negligible by incorporating smarter design
features.  Should an increase in mortgage payment occur, that amount is offset by the utility savings, primarily heating and cooling.  According to a Portland Cement Association study of 58 homes across Canada and the U.S. (half ICF and half conventionally framed) ICF homes consumed 44% less energy to heat the homes
and 32% less energy to cool the homes.  Assuming a $250 per month average utility cost, an ICF home conservatively saves $95 per month.  Applied to a 30 year loan at 5%, that gives roughly $17,700 in additional buying power, or nearly 9% of the cost of a $200,000 home.

Fire Suppression Article with Dale

When the Kansas City Star could not find a local developer placing fire suppression in every home of a community, they sought out Dale Hicks across the state for input.

A baby died in a fire, but requiring sprinklers that might have saved her is banned

April 02, 2017 02:58 PM

Updated April 03, 2017 09:51 AM

The Star could find no local Kansas City developer touting a neighborhood with sprinklers in every home.But there is one being built in the St. Louis area.Once a sprinkler skeptic, Eureka, Mo., developer Dale Hicks is marketing lots in a “villa community” where 18 to 20 homes, starting at $250,000, will be fitted with a sprinkler system whether the buyer wants one or not.“I was opposed to this, and just thought this was another cost driver in the construction industry,” Hicks said. Besides, the houses he builds are made of concrete and unlikely to burn.But Hicks changed his mind after the Eureka fire marshal explained how it’s not the house but the burning contents that often kill people.“We have so many petrochemicals in our houses,” Hicks said. “What they call flashover can occur in just a couple of minutes, and you cannot escape it. So the light bulb went on for me.”

Read more here: http://www.newsobserver.com/news/nation-world/national/article142270249.html#storylink=cpy

Typical Residential above and below grade ICF wall

ICF construction benefits include:

***Greater Comfort and much Lower Energy Bills
***Peace and Quiet
***Solid and Lasting Security
***Less Repairs and Maintenance
***Healthier Home and Environment
***Virtually Limitless Design Options
***Internationally Proven and Code Accepted
***Cost Competitive with on-site framed construction

DHA Featured Options

***Hydronic Radiant In-Floor Heat
***Decorative Concrete
***Steel Roofing
***Spray Urethane Foam Insulation
***Steel Floor Framing
***Suspended Concrete Slabs
***Exterior Insulation Finish System (EIFS)
***Geo-Thermal Heating and Cooling

Commerical ICF frostwall