When Winter Storm Uri knocked out power to 4.5 million Texas homes in February 2021, it became a life-or-death test of building performance. Outside temperatures dropped to single digits. Power stayed off for days.
The results revealed a stark divide between building methods.
What We Heard from ICF Homeowners
ICF homeowners across Texas reported remarkably similar experiences:
- Interior temperatures dropped slowly—1-2°F per hour rather than 5-10°F
- Homes remained at 50-60°F after 24+ hours without power
- Pipes didn't freeze even without active heating
- No damage to home or contents
Real Report: "Our power was out for 78 hours. When it came back on, our house was at 52°F. Our neighbors in their wood frame house dropped to 38°F in the first 12 hours. They stayed with us."
Why ICF Performed So Well
Thermal Mass: The concrete walls had been absorbing and storing heat for weeks. That stored energy released slowly as temperatures dropped.
Airtight Construction: Cold air couldn't infiltrate through the walls. The only heat loss was through windows and doors.
Superior Insulation: R-23+ continuous insulation slowed heat transfer to a crawl.
Wood Frame Comparison
Wood frame homes, even well-insulated ones, performed poorly:
- Interior temperatures dropped 5-10°F per hour
- Homes reached freezing within 6-12 hours
- Pipes froze, causing extensive damage
- Many families had to evacuate to warming centers
Lessons for the Future
Uri wasn't the last time the Texas grid will fail. Building with ICF means:
- Your family stays safe during extended outages
- Your pipes don't freeze
- Your home becomes a shelter for neighbors
- You have time to find alternative heating if needed
Combined with solar and battery backup, ICF homes can maintain comfort indefinitely.
Build for the Next Storm
Don't wait for the next Uri to wish you'd built differently.
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