Support

The BuildBlock installation information is available in our technical section. The technical section includes a comprehensive installation manual, CAD drawings and engineering details, code approval and product testing informaiton. Click here for installation information.

Prescriptive Method for Insulating Concrete Forms in Residential Construction, Second Edition
(January 2002, 214 p.)

Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) represent a category of building product that is receiving greater attention among builders. ICFs are hollow blocks, planks, or panels that can be constructed of rigid foam plastic insulation, a composite of cement and foam insulation, a composite of cement and wood chips, or other suitable insulation material that has the ability to act as forms for cast-in-place concrete walls. The forms typically remain in place after the concrete has cured, providing well-insulated construction. ICFs continue to gain popularity because they are competitive with light-frame construction and offer a strong, durable, and energy-efficient wall system for housing.

The first edition of the Prescriptive Method for Insulating Concrete Forms in Residential Construction represented the outcome of an initial effort to fulfill the need for prescriptive construction requirements and to improve the overall affordability of homes constructed with insulating concrete forms. The first edition also served as the source document for building code provisions in the International Residential Code (IRC).

The second edition expands on the first edition by adding provisions for Seismic Design Categories C and D (Seismic Zones 3 and 4). Wall construction requirements utilizing Grade 60 reinforcing steel and concrete mixes with selected compressive strengths are included. In addition, tables throughout the document have been simplified as a result of additional evaluation and user input. http://www.huduser.org/portal/publications/destech/icf_2ed.html

BuildBlock Code Approval Information

For the code-approved installation method of ICFs and engineering tables, download this document for free from the HUD website at: http://www.buildblock.com/pdfFiles/prescriptivemethodforicf_2ed.pdf 

ICFweb.com Learning Center -

The Learning Center is the most factual and comprehensive collection of information on ICFs. Whether you are new to ICFs or a seasoned pro, you're almost guaranteed to learn something new.

Introduction to ICFs
Introduction, Benefits of ICFs, Overview of ICF Systems, Overview of ICF Tools & Accessories, FAQs

ICF Online Construction Manual
A step by step guide to working with ICFs. Written by Dr. Pieter VanderWerf with contributions from the entire ICFweb.com community

Articles and Editorials: 
- Cost of ICF Construction vs. Wood Frame Construction 
- What is the best ICF System to use? 
- The Importance of Bracing Systems (By Ian Giesler, November 2002) 
- The Ever Changing World of ICFs (By Ian Giesler, Setptember 2002) 
- Is it the Sale or the Service (By Ian Giesler, May 2002)

Additional Information Sources: 
- Trade Associations 
- Magazines and Newsletters 
- Technical Reports 
- Videos 
- Other Web Sites 
- Whole-Wall Thermal Performance Calculator