In Europe, where wood is scarce, and in Canada, where winters are fierce, buildings made of concrete are common. In recent years, Engineered Concrete Products, Inc., Southeastern regional distributor for AAB's Blue Maxx TM ICF wall system, has sold and built custom and tract homes, apartments and commercial buildings in the two Carolinas, Georgia and Tennessee. The reasons for the rapid growth in concrete building are clear. Concrete structures are energy efficient.
Concrete homes are stronger and safer.
A fire rating of three hours, plus superior wind resistance during hurricanes and tornadoes, means lower insurance premiums, too. Blue Maxx also meets all seismic requirements in the U. S. Concrete buildings are quieter. For homes on busy streets or lakes, and for apartments, townhomes and condominiums, insulated concrete means serenity and peace of mind. Concrete homes are flexible. The sheer strength of concrete walls means they can be formed in hundreds of shapes and sizes, allowing for great flexibility in design.