Description of ICF Blocks
The Lazarian Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) polystyrene foam block is the basis for the Lazarian World Home. With these blocks, the Lazarian World Home structures become simple and inexpensive to build. The buildings are energy efficient with a minimum R-Value of 20. The polystyrene (EPS) blocks do not absorb moisture, resist pests, and contain fire retardant materials all within each block. The homes also have an estimated economic life of 40-50 years.

The assembling of walls requires only four styrofoam pieces, which include the Standard and Lintel Block, a Plug, and the End Cap. The Standard Wall Block and Lintel/Header Block comprise the main pieces. These blocks are 48"L X 12"H X 8"W and weigh about 3 pounds. The blocks interlock through a Lego type nature that allows for quick and easy assembly. LWH then uses 3/8 rebar and concrete into holes every 16 inches throughout the wall and the same done through the lintel block every 4 ft. from the ground to tie the building vertically and horizontally. Because the resulting "skeleton" inside the walls of the Lazarian World Home is a type of structural system commonly known as Reinforced Concrete Post and Beam Construction, the homes will withstand major earthquakes, storms, floods, and natural disasters. This process along with the features of the styrofoam blocks, gives our buildings the strength and durability that is seldom seen within the class of affordable housing.
 


Explanation of Technology
The shaping of styrofoam blocks to be used for home construction has been around for many years, but LWH has taken the styrofoam pieces and have made the process as simple as possible. With the use of only four pieces of styrofoam, concrete, and rebar; the LHW buildings are completed with a very high structural integrity. Concrete, rebar, and styrofoam are all universal commodities, therefore allowing us to work anywhere in the world. In Armenia, a LWH 670 sf, two bed, one bath with kitchen home costs 45% to 50% less than comparably sized yet inferior constructed homes in the area. LWH breaks down affordability and sustainability barriers by using an alternative method of building that is faster than conventional building, does not require a sophisticated work force, and is easy to learn due to its simple structure and few materials needed.  This greatly reduces the price of the home and gives locals the opportunity to take the product and build on their own.
Currently it costs about $25/sq. ft. or $17,000 to build our fully equiped 670 sq. ft, 2 bedroom - 1 bath Lazarian World Home. This cost is based on a home which includes electrical, plumbing, cabinets, appliances and flooring. Our 1 room World Home 2, 3 room World Home 2A and our other building designs that have less amenities cost considerably  less per sq.ft.