Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) deliver energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and cost-effectiveness all in one material, and the Sherwin-Williams retail store in Oklahoma City stands as a testament. Constructed using BuildBlock ICFs, this 4,400-square-foot facility exemplifies the advantages that ICFs offer for commercial projects.

Strategic Design and Construction

Located in Oklahoma City, the Sherwin-Williams store features a storefront, showrooms for both retail and wholesale sales, restrooms, a storage room, shipping bay, and an office. The design also incorporates three different exterior finishes: brick, steel siding, and Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS), showcasing the versatility of ICFs in accommodating various architectural styles.

A notable aspect of this project is the integration of the Super Floor suspended concrete flooring system. Manufactured from pre-galvanized high-tensile steel, the system includes joists, trays, and reinforcing steel, culminating in a 4-inch reinforced concrete topping. This system not only provides structural integrity but also demonstrates how easily it can integrate with ICFs, offering a faster, simpler construction process.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

The decision to utilize BuildBlock ICFs was driven by several factors, chief among them being cost savings. By opting for ICFs over traditional steel stud construction, the project owners reduced construction costs by over 10%. ICFs contributed to a 25% reduction in construction time, leading to significant labor cost savings. Additionally, the energy-efficient properties of ICFs resulted in a 25% reduction in HVAC system costs, with anticipated monthly utility savings of 40% or more.

Beyond direct construction savings, ICFs also led to a reduction in Builder’s Risk and Owner Liability Insurance by up to 80%, owing to the storm and fire-resistant nature of ICFs.

Collaborative Effort

The successful completion of the Sherwin-Williams Oklahoma City retail store was the result of a collaborative effort among several key partners:

• AC Owen Construction: Served as the general contractor and owner of the project.
• KBA Constructors: Specialized in ICF and masonry subcontracting.
• Dolese Bros. Co.: Supplied the concrete mix for the project.
• SuperFloor USA: Provided the SuperFloor suspended concrete flooring system.

This project not only highlights the benefits of ICF construction but also underscores the importance of collaboration in achieving a successful and efficient build.

Learn more about why the developer chose to build with ICFs and see the construction process at buildblock.com.

To learn about the SuperFloor suspended concrete decking system, visit SuperFloorUSA.com.