An Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) is a hollow block of polystyrene that is stacked much like Lego blocks then it is filled with rebar and finally concrete. It is important that your builder is experienced with ICF construction as structural issues vary considerably from traditional framing methods and spaces left for doors and windows must be properly braced for concrete prior to the pour. ICF Homes can be built in any architectural style or design. Interiors can be finished out as you would a traditionally wood framed home. With an ICF home, it is what you don’t see that makes all the difference. Homes framed with ICF blocks are structurally superior to wood framed homes. They can withstand winds up to 200mph, have a fire rating of up to 4 hours, when built with the proper compliment of windows, door and HVAC equipment they have R-values of R-22 to R-30 and can provide energy savings of 50-80%. Double Diamond is an experienced ICF builder and has worked with multiple ICF block companies.

FAQs | Double Diamond Custom Homes

Q: What is included in your price?

We are a turnkey builder which means we detail the specifications all of the work that will be performed in the contract. We typically present the bid to you as a lump-sum contract in which the builder takes on all of the risk as far as theft, price increases, etc. This becomes your “drive out” price. We generally include allowances for items such as tile, light fixtures and plumbing to allow for items that will be selected after the contract is signed. The allowances are based on packages so the numbers are a realistic budget for you to select from.

Q: What if I have specific needs or wants for the materials in my home?

As a true custom home builder, we are happy to accommodate our customer’s requests for any special materials or amenities. Our only requirement is that it is structurally sound.

Q: Do we need an architect to design our new home or addition?

We have several plan designers and architects that we work with regularly, depending up on the style of home you wish to build, or we can work with your architect. If you already have plans and want us to provide a bid, we can do that as well.

Q: Do you provide financing for your homes?

We do not offer “in house” financing but we have arrangements with several local lenders who can handle your both your construction loan and permanent financing needs.

Q: Do you have building lots available?

In order to keep costs down, we do not keep an inventory of lots. We do have a working relationship with specific Realtors specializing in land that will help our customers find property and we can offer expertise with choosing a lot that will fit your vision.

Q: How long does it take to build a custom home?

From the time we start, we will normally take 6-9 months to complete your home. There are factors such as complexity of your plan and difficulty of your lot that can affect the build time, which we can review with you before we start.

Q: Why should I build a custom home?

Building a home with a custom home builder allows you flexibility to choose any design or ideas and make it your own. Double Diamond has a system of formal meetings in place to meet with the customer throughout the building process. This helps to make for a smoother, less stressful building process to achieve a beautiful home.