HOW-TO
Be Prepared
By Tom PattonAt a time when many areas of the country are experiencing extreme weather events resulting in destruction of homes, extensive damage, and loss of life, there needs to be a mindset change in design and construction for the safety of the building and its...
How-To: DIY and ICF Project
Tom PattonThe housing market is suffering for a number of reasons — skilled labor shortage, material and labor costs, and tighter building codes requiring more expertise in building science to meet thermal and air infiltration standards. ICFs have always provided a...
Transforming ICF Pools with PVC Membrane Interiors
By Matthew Sands When it comes to construction techniques for building pools, the industry is always exploring new options to meet the needs of the market. Suppliers frequently introduce new product innovations that enhance pool esthetics or technologies from parallel...
How To: Build ICF Additions
Today’s real estate market is making more homeowners think seriously about renovating their house or creating an addition to gain more space for the family or for lifestyle comfort. Additions or remodels add value to the property and extend the current lifespan in...
How-To: Avoid Concrete Voids
Roughly estimating, well over 30 million square feet of ICF walls are filled with concrete annually.Voids are rare, and with proper procedures and training, can be eliminated altogether. This is a big concern that contractors, inspectors, and future clients hear, and...
ICF Tips: Reinforcing with Pencil Rod Bracing
By Dan McCulloughPhotos courtesy of Dan McCulloughUsing pencil rod bracing is a method to reinforce or restore the ability of ICF forms to handle the pressure exerted on the forms. In certain situations, when the integrity of the ICF forms has been compromised, pencil...
How-To: Develop a Commercial Estimate
By Tom PattonConstructing the Showbiz Cinema building in Homestead, Florida. All theater walls and bowling alley walls were built with ICF. The theater walls are 62 feet tall. Photo courtesy of Fox BlocksThe most advantageous scenario at the start of any commercial...
How To: Troubleshooting Blowouts
The worst word to hear in ICF construction is “blowout.” Most ICF blowouts occur during concrete placement. This is where the EPS (foam) of a form bungles out and splits, creating an opening to spill concrete out of the wall. Quick action is required to fix this...
Timing For Concrete Placement
The placement of concrete in an ICF wall is the most exciting part of the build. This stage of the build is not something to be taken lightly and needs to follow engineering rules, material specifications, safety, and placement procedures for success. Check your...
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