Why We’re Building Concrete Homes with SCIP Construction
- elizbarnes
- Jan 22
- 2 min read

At EM Contingency Group, we’re currently building residential concrete homes using SCIP construction—one complete and one underway. We’re also one of the only builders in the region doing this type of work.
There’s a reason you don’t see many of these homes: they’re harder to build, more expensive upfront, and require experience most builders simply don’t have.
But the result is something fundamentally different.

What Is SCIP Construction?
SCIP (Structural Concrete Insulated Panel) construction uses welded wire panels, integrated insulation, and pneumatically applied concrete to create a monolithic concrete shell.
No studs.No cavities.No lightweight framing.
Once complete, the structure behaves as a single, solid system.
This is the same SCIP system used for Castle Enclosures, which are designed and rated for extreme events like tornadoes and hurricanes. The homes we’re building carry those same structural characteristics and performance ratings.
This isn’t experimental. It’s proven.
“It Feels Like Living in a Bunker”
That’s the comment we hear most often—and it’s not meant negatively.
Inside a concrete SCIP home:
Outside noise is dramatically reduced
The structure feels immovable
Temperatures stay consistent
There’s no flex, no hollow sound, no sense that the house is relying on layers of materials to hold together.
It’s solid—because it is.
When the Sirens Go Off
In our area, severe weather is part of life. When tornado sirens sound, most people are thinking about storm shelters, interior rooms, or where they need to go.
Concrete SCIP homes change that mindset.
These structures are designed to withstand extreme wind and impact loads by default—not as an add-on. The mass and continuity of the concrete shell provide a level of protection that traditional wood framing simply can’t match.
For homeowners who can afford to invest in this type of construction, the peace of mind is real. When others are relocating for safety, these homes are designed to stay put.

Energy Efficiency Comes With the Strength
Because insulation is built directly into the wall system:
Air infiltration is minimal
HVAC systems work more efficiently
Interior comfort stays consistent year-round
You don’t sacrifice comfort to gain strength—you get both.
Why You Don’t See More Homes Like This
SCIP construction isn’t mainstream because:
Planning and sequencing are critical
Mistakes are expensive
Builders must commit fully to the system
It’s not something you casually offer. It’s something you specialize in.
We’ve chosen to do it because we believe there’s a place for permanent, storm-resilient homes in this region—especially for lake properties and long-term residences.
Built Once. Built Right.
Concrete homes aren’t for everyone. But for homeowners who value durability, resilience, and long-term performance over trends, SCIP construction makes sense.
At EM Contingency Group, we’re proud to be bringing this level of construction to our area—using systems already trusted in extreme environments and applying them to permanent residential homes.





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