5 benefits of using ICFs to build pools

By Emma Peterson. 

From energy savings to design versatility, discover how Nudura ICFs are reshaping modern pool construction. 

Across the construction industry, Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) have grown in popularity as a building material. For those that are unfamiliar, ICFs are hollow foam blocks that are stacked and then filled with reinforced concrete to create a monolithic concrete wall with continuous insulation. They are most often used for structural walls in both residential and commercial buildings.  

But that’s not all ICFs can do! In fact, many outdoor contractors use ICFs from Nudura when building in-ground swimming pools. Here are five reasons why builders are turning to ICFs for pool construction! 

1 – Energy efficiency 

One of the benefits of using ICFs over traditional pool materials and methods is the insulation that comes built into them. The insulating power helps maintain the pool water’s temperature for longer, which translates into substantial cost savings. Nudura ICFs have been found to reduce energy costs by 60%. For context, a conventional heated pool actually loses up to 80% of its heat along the sidewalls and floor.  

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2 – Easy installation 

Building a pool out of ICFs requires less labor, expertise and time than a spray concrete pool installation. This is because, unlike traditional pools, ICFs do not require exact excavations. Once you get the ICFs in place, it’s easy to backfill sections. Further, because ICFs are filled with concrete after they are put in place, they stay lightweight while your crew is moving them, making it far easier and faster on labor. 

3 – Durability and strength 

Just because Nudura ICFs are simple to install, doesn’t mean they are lacking strength. In fact, ICF pools avoid the extensive upkeep and costly treatments that conventional concrete pools require to avoid cracks, pores and algae growth. How is this possible? The EPS foam that is part of an ICF wall helps the concrete cure more consistently and creates a waterproof barrier that shields the cured concrete from moisture infiltration.  

4 – Versatility  

Another benefit is the adaptability of ICF forms. Nudura ICF comes in many shapes and sizes that are easily cut in the field to fit your needs. This creates an easier and more economical way to add unique pool design elements such as curved walls and other intricate geometries that make pools stand out.  

5 – Clean aesthetics 

Last but not least, the same waterproof layer that protects the concrete in an ICF also works in tandem with pool liners and plaster finishes to create an aesthetically pleasing, smooth wall finish for a pool. Gone are the days of pool liner ripples or callbacks for ineffective finishes, with properly installed and finished Nudura ICFs, you can expect a pool to go 10 years without needing a refinish. 

Overall, ICFs are a great option for contractors building pools. Not only do they reduce energy costs and increase longevity, they reduce labor requirements and provide huge design versatility.  

Learn more about using Nudura ICFs to build a pool.