Here are a few of the basic requirements that you should look for:
- Skills and experience. Since ICF is an alternative building method that makes up a small percentage of the construction industry, you want to make sure that the installer you select is properly trained, certified by the manufacturer and has worked with ICF before.
- Reputation. Your ICF installer should be able to provide you with references from previous customers, but also feel free to ask for references from other sources including banks, suppliers and other trade professionals. This is especially important if your installer has not had much experience with ICF. You want to be sure that they are reliable in the event that there are any complications.
- Proper business practices. Professional ICF installers should have business liability insurance, workers’ compensation coverage, proper building permits and be able to provide you with a written contract before starting your project.
- Support Network. In the ICF industry it is worthwhile to investigate who the distributor and manufacturers are when you select your ICF installer. Their reputations and business practices are equally as important, since installers often installers rely heavily on these resources for technical support, customer service and training.
- Fit. Like with any other business transaction, you are more likely to have a good experience if you have a good working relationship with your ICF installer. You should share the same expectations, attitude and goals for the project.
So for the most part it appears that choosing and ICF installer is relatively similar to choosing any contractor for a project…but we would like to throw it out there to you for discussion. Is there anything in particular you would recommend people look for in ICF installers vs. other types of contractors?