Where Bode Performance Begins.

Foundation Forward. Performance Throughout.

A Better Foundation for a Better Building.


Bode Kits can be paired with Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) foundation systems for both basement and crawlspace applications, creating a highly insulated, durable foundation that complements the performance-focused Bode building envelope above.

Unlike a conventional poured-concrete foundation that typically requires additional interior 2×4 frost walls, insulation, air and vapour control layers, and subsequent finishing preparation, ICF integrates concrete structure and continuous insulation into a single wall assembly. Concrete is placed between two layers of rigid insulation, creating a strong, thermally efficient foundation from footing to floor system.

The result is a foundation designed to provide better thermal continuity, improved comfort, reduced air leakage and fewer construction steps while providing an excellent starting point for a high-performance Bode Kit.

Why Bode + ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms)?


Continuous Insulation
ICF provides continuous insulation on both sides of the concrete wall, significantly reducing the thermal bridging associated with conventional foundation assemblies.

Eliminates Conventional Interior Frost Walls
Traditional poured foundations often require insulated 2×4 interior frost walls to create the finished thermal envelope. With ICF, insulation is already integrated into the foundation wall, simplifying the interior assembly and potentially recovering usable floor area.

A More Continuous Building Envelope
Pairing an ICF foundation with the high-performance wall system of a Bode Kit creates an opportunity for the thermal envelope to transition more effectively from below grade to above grade.

Greater Basement Comfort
Continuous insulation helps maintain more consistent interior surface temperatures, creating basement spaces that can feel warmer and more comfortable than conventionally insulated concrete foundations.

Reduced Thermal Bridging
Traditional interior stud walls introduce framing members, joints and transitions within the insulation system. ICF provides a substantially more continuous insulation layer across the foundation wall.

Excellent Air-Sealing Potential
ICF construction reduces many of the joints and interfaces associated with conventional foundation insulation systems, supporting a tighter overall building envelope when detailing at penetrations, openings and transitions is properly executed.

Strength & Durability
At the centre of an ICF wall is reinforced concrete, providing the structural strength expected from a concrete foundation while permanently integrating the insulation system.

Simplified Construction Sequence
Structure and insulation are created as part of the same foundation-wall system, reducing the need to return later to construct extensive interior insulated frost-wall assemblies.

Ideal for Basements & Crawlspaces
Whether the Bode Kit sits above a full basement or conditioned crawlspace, ICF provides a consistent foundation strategy that can be adapted to project requirements, climate and site conditions.

Note: Waterproofing & Damproofing
All applications of waterproofing & damproofing are to be completed by 3rd party contractor.

Poured Concrete + Frost Wall vs. ICF.


Traditional Foundation

Poured Concrete

  • Interior 2×4 Frost Wall

  • Batt or Rigid Insulation

  • Air/Vapour Control Strategy

  • Interior Sheathing/Finishing Preparation
    = Multiple Assemblies & Construction Steps

Bode ICF Foundation

  • Reinforced Concrete Core

  • Continuous Insulation
    = One Integrated Foundation Wall System

BUILT FROM THE FOUNDATION UP.

A high-performance building shouldn't begin at the main floor.

By combining an ICF basement or crawlspace with a Bode Kit above, the building can be approached as a more complete envelope—from the footing and foundation through the walls and roof.

It's another way Bode looks beyond individual building components and considers how the entire building works together as a system.

Bode Performance Kits Designed to Inspire.

Small Home. Better Space.

Follow our journey.