April 4, 2022

Concrete blocks have been used in construction projects for decades, but the International Building Code (IBC) restricts the use of concrete materials for walls and foundations. In 2009, ICF was approved as a code alternative to standard concrete blocks. We will look at how ICF blocks differ from standard concrete blocks.

 

1. Achieve Higher R-values

Concrete blocks are typically made from cement, which will not insulate as well as a material like a polystyrene. In the winter, a concrete block wall can lose heat through the concrete. The use of polystyrene for insulating walls is a relatively new alternative to home construction materials, and it has been shown to increase energy efficiency by up to 45%. Using polystyrene for insulation will help reduce energy bills and prevent condensation buildup on your walls.

 

2. ICF Blocks Don’t Need Mortar Between Each Brick and Won’t Settle Over Time

Unlike standard concrete blocks, ICF blocks are made up of small bricks. These bricks are made of a liquid polymer that is cured with a catalyst. This allows the bricks to be stacked together quickly and easily for use in construction. ICF blocks will not require mortar to hold them together or set over time, which means you’ll need less material to complete your project.

 

3. Keep Your Home Cool in the Summer and Warm in the Winter

When building walls with concrete blocks, you may be concerned about how warm your walls get during the summer months. Overheated walls can be a problem because they can create condensation on the walls or floors. Condensation can lead to mold and mildew, which is not something you want in your home. With ICF blocks, you’ll have no worries about overheating due to the insulation properties of polystyrene.

 

4. Supports More Weight

The lightness of ICF blocks makes them easy to handle and install. Even though they are lighter than standard concrete, they can still support a lot of weight. The IBC no longer permits the use of concrete blocks for foundation walls, but you still need to make sure that your foundation will be able to support the weight of your house.

 

5. Easy to Install

ICF blocks can be installed using a variety of methods, from cranes to backhoes. Concrete blocks must be placed in place by hand, which can take a lot of time and skill.

 

6. Finish the Outside Without Having to Remove Them

Unlike concrete, which requires you to remove any curing compound before it can be finished, polymer blocks allow for a “green” construction process. Polymer blocks are ready for use during installation, so there is no need to remove mortar or other toxic materials from the outside of your home. The exterior of your home will be protected from toxic fumes and vapors that you may find with concrete. This means you won’t have to worry about children or pets being around the foundation area when it is built.

 

Bottom line

 

ICF blocks can be an excellent option for constructing your home’s walls and foundation. They offer many benefits, including energy efficiency, ease of installation, and strength.