Insulating concrete form walls are ten times stronger than walls made of wood.  Not only can a safe room built with insulating concrete forms withstand hurricanes, F5 tornadoes, and earthquakes; it is also bulletproof.  During a Texas Tech University high wind test a standard wooden 2”x4” was shot (from an air cannon) at an insulating concrete form wall.  The result?   The insulating concrete form wall was impenetrable by the wind driven missile which was traveling at 120mph. Is this a well-kept secret? No secret, in fact the insulating concrete form industry has collaborated with FEMA in an effort to make the public aware of the affordability and necessity of building safe rooms in homes.  This is a powerful message for people who reside in tornado prone or other severe weather areas.

Builders and homeowners across the nation have already discovered the peace of mind, quality, and security that building a home or safe room with insulating concrete forms provides.  Many insulating concrete form homeowners have shared their severe weather survival stories, and all have said, “We knew we were safe.”

Founded in 1950 as a state-wide, non-profit organization, the Aggregate & Ready Mix Association of Minnesota is committed to supporting the aggregate and ready mix industries through promotion, education and advocacy in environmental and government issues.  The Aggregate & Ready Mix Association of Minnesota’s Insulating Concrete Form Committee has developed the Concrete Home Specialist Program.  To locate a qualified Concrete Home Specialist, or to make arrangements to tour a home or safe room built with insulating concrete forms, contact Margaret Mills, Communications & Residential Promotions Director at 952-707-1250 or by e-mail at mmills@armofmn.com.