ICF homes?

[Big D]

We may get to build our own home in a year or two and right now DH is obsessed with building an ICF home (insulated concrete forms). They are great for insulation (we live in a very cold climate) but I worry that all that concrete and styrofoam isn't a healthy choice for us or the environment. Can anyone help me out with this? I could use some resources arguing against ICF or if anyone knows they're okay, please put my mind at ease!

Also, what would you use if you could (or already have) built your home? DH worries about the re-sell value of strawbale or cob, and I worry about the length of time it would take to build. I lean towards a simple log-style home right now but would love feedback about all types!
TIA!

[talia rose]

There are some similiar options out there made from recycled wood chips and concrete instead of styrofoam. much healthier for you and the planet if you can make it work. We used to handle a company called faswall out of oregon i think but there are a few other companies as well. if you do end up going styrofoam there are some brands that are at least made from recycled styrofoam - i think rastrablock is one of these. i do have a friend who built with that and loves her house. personally i could never choose styrofoam myself....

[SleeplessMommy]

ICF is a great choice for a well insulated house. SIP is another option to consider. There is nothing special to worry about with SIP or ICF. ANY well built house today is going to be "tight" and will require special ventilation measures not found in most houses today. Look up energy recovery ventilation. (hrv/erv depending on climate)

Also, make sure the gas oven/range is vented to the outside (this applies to all houses) Use the vent fan while cooking!!!

With the erv and the vent fans, you indoor air quality will probably be BETTER than in most other houses.