EXPLORING THE TECHNICAL AND ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF CONSTRUCTION METHODOLOGIES: A COMPARISON BETWEEN ICF, REINFORCED CONCRETE AND STRUCTURAL MASONRY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/ERR01v10n6-061Keywords:
ICF, Reinforced Concrete, Structural Masonry, Thermal Performance, Construction EfficiencyAbstract
This study compares three construction methodologies widely used in Brazil — Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF), reinforced concrete and structural masonry — with the aim of analyzing their technical and economic efficiency. A qualitative and comparative approach was adopted, supported by eight peer-reviewed studies retrieved from national and international scientific databases and complemented by Brazilian technical standards. Results show that the ICF system offers superior thermal performance and greater construction rationalization due to its continuous insulation and reduction of execution stages. Reinforced concrete remains the most versatile structural solution, suitable for medium and large-scale buildings, although it presents a higher environmental impact. Structural masonry demonstrates strong economic performance and high productivity in low- and mid-rise buildings, provided that the design is consistent with block modulation. Overall, the findings indicate that the choice of the most appropriate system requires an integrated assessment of thermal, structural and financial factors, considering climate conditions, project scale and performance requirements.
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