Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF)
Build Stronger. Breathe Better. Live Cleaner.
Petra’s ICF wall systems use a cement–wood fiber mix instead of foam, creating breathable, fireproof, and mold-resistant walls. Whether for a foundation or full-height build, Nexcem blocks deliver strength, comfort, and long-term performance.
Why Choose Nexcem ICF?
No Foam. No Toxins.
Our ICF blocks are made without polystyrene or synthetic materials—just cement and recycled wood fiber. That means no off-gassing, no VOCs, and no microplastics in your walls.
Built for Canadian Conditions
Nexcem ICF is strong enough to withstand concrete pressure during installation without blowouts. It also requires less bracing and concrete overall, reducing material and labor costs.
Superior Indoor Air Quality
Breathable, mold-resistant, and hygroscopic by nature, our blocks regulate moisture and suppress fungal growth. Perfect for families, asthma sufferers, and airtight homes.
Fireproof and Termite-Resistant
Rated for 4 hours of fire resistance with zero flame or smoke spread. Plus, there’s no nutritional value for termites—tested and validated by independent labs.
High Thermal Performance
Nexcem ICF delivers up to R-36 performance with added thermal mass that stabilizes interior temperatures and supports passive solar design.
Nexcem ICF Advantages
Health & Safety
- Made from natural materials (no EPS, VOCs, or synthetic chemicals)
- Zero smoke and flame spread
- Naturally resistant to mold, fungi, and pests
- Regulates indoor humidity
- Helps reduce urban noise for healthier indoor environments
Durability & Performance
- High impact resistance for demanding applications
- Suitable for construction year-round
- Requires less concrete than typical foam ICF systems
- Long-lasting structural integrity with built-in pest resistance
Sustainability
- Eligible for LEED points across multiple categories
- Supports Net-Zero and Passive House goals
- Lower embodied carbon footprint than foam-based alternatives
Technical Data Sheets
Real Builds. Real Benefits.
From full-height ICF homes to precision-installed foundations, explore how Nexcem performs on real Canadian job sites—in every season.
Panel Dimensions & Performance
Wall Type:
Standard ICF Wall
R-Value:
Up to R-36
Fire Rating:
3,75 – 4
Composition:
Cement-bonded wood fiber (no EPS)
Need a custom fit?
The sizes listed above are our most common configurations, but we can accommodate unique project needs. Other thicknesses are available—just give us a call to discuss what works best for your build.
Call +1 (888) 969-2689Let’s Talk About Your Project
From early planning to last-mile details, our experts are here to help you build smarter. Let’s find the right solution for your home or commercial project.
FAQs
Got questions? We’ve answered the most common ones below. If you need specs, pricing, or technical support tailored to your project, reach out to us and we’ll get you the details you need.
What makes Nexcem ICF different from standard foam ICFs?
Nexcem uses no EPS or synthetic foams. It’s a cement-bonded wood fiber system that offers better breathability, indoor air quality, and fire resistance than traditional polystyrene ICFs.
How well does it insulate?
The system delivers up to R-36 and performs even better due to its thermal mass. It helps stabilize indoor temperatures and reduces heating and cooling loads.
Is it safe for people with asthma or chemical sensitivities?
Yes. Nexcem contains no VOCs, foam, or off-gassing materials. Its mold resistance and moisture regulation also support healthier indoor air.
Can I use it year-round?
Absolutely. You can build with Nexcem ICF year-round. The blocks’ weight makes them more resistant to wind loads, so less bracing is needed. And because the material is breathable, it dries quickly if exposed to snow or rain—helping prevent mold and mildew during construction.
Does it contribute to LEED or Passive House goals?
Yes. Nexcem supports multiple green building certifications, including LEED, Passive House, and Net-Zero programs.