I've missed your show on cable, and even though I only caught it spuratically I really enjoyed your way of presenting the work, It's good to see you haven't stopped.
I'm sitting hear in Melbourne Australia and the temperature is 35 C and its going to get hotter next week. It never snows! I can't believe these guys are building in the snow! I'm planning to build an ICF house here for the bushfire/wildfire protection. and because it will be cooler in the summer.
What company, builder or ICF type have you chosen - I am in Bacchus Marsh 1 hr west of Melbourne and would like to build with ICFs but it is not easy to find builders who know how to use this stuff in regional Victoria
I''m not architect, engineer or anything like that,,,but I love so much the use of this material. I made my Christmas nativity using foam,,,it is just so versatile,,,,now studying town planning,,,looking into building construction methods,,I found this video,,and it is just fantastic,,,
D Armon, I was looking for someone who commented on this so I could put in my 2 cents... you're absolutely correct. His style is calm, cool, and collected sprinkled with good info. cheers from Steel City Canada.
I ran pumps for 38 years. This guy did it right. Some guys tried building the walls to high and these foam forms just blew out. They would blame the pump and it would be a night mare. This is a decent system on this pour.
I could see blaming the pump if it was a completely closed system, due to the very high pressures, but, as the concrete is effectively only falling from the pipe, thus dissipating the pressure, it can only be due to a failure in the blocks, and their assembly on site.
Sounds great! Check out this story about a couple who did the same thing buildblock.com/icf-log-cabin/. When you're ready to start planning, give us a call at 405-840-3386.
Hahaha, yeah probably not too much snow for you! ICFs handle extremely well in the wind and rain as well. Follow this link to see how ICFs have held up in hurricane and tornado debris tests. buildblock.com/icfs/safety/high-winds/
How much does it cost to build 2000sq feet two story (without basement) house with this ICF method? Open floor plan on Ground level; living room, kitchen, dining room, a flex room and a powder room. Upstairs 2 big bedrooms, a master bedroom and two bathrooms etc. something simple and straight forward.
Hey Fuda. Plumbing and electrical is easily chased into the ICF wall. You can see how it's done here ruclips.net/video/i0oVOGw30HU/видео.html. Thanks for stopping by!
Its called a common seam.... Its where the blocks that have to be cut short all meet. Its reinforced on the outsides usually with pieces of timber and extends from the floor to the top of the wall... with all the seams or joints in a vertical line.
Its not a mistake, the common seam allows the wall to be any length. You always start from the corners and work to the centre. Then adjust the form where they meet i.e. the common seam. They make special parts to strengthen the common seam or use wood.
Yes common seam.that make H-clips to be placed 16 inches on center.and place straps on outside.plus glue seams.its better to just flip blocks over when possible
+GordWing Great question! HomeTime didn't show the vibration process in this segment but you are right, concrete in ICF walls should always be internally vibrated to prevent honeycombing and create a strong solid wall. We recommend a low impact pencil vibrator with a 3/4 to 1 inch head.
What did you mean when you said waterproofing did you not put a Rubber seal in the concrete on the foundation floor for the walls that keep the water out you know they do make a seal that goes into the first Port of the concrete between the rebar so when you pour the wall the concrete goes around the other half of the shield been around for decades you ought to try it works very good not much work
Hi Seannn! Check out this video from our installer training series ruclips.net/video/i0oVOGw30HU/видео.html. You can also get more in-depth training on our free training site training.buildblock.com/. Thanks for stopping by!
I got also a question .. if i want to Plumber job inside the wall after i already installed the wall, hows that ? can you please tell me about i would be more thankful :)
Hey Seannn, It's advisable to do any plumbing that goes through the wall before the wall is poured. Since you're dealing with concrete, it can be pretty difficult to add plumbing after the wall is poured and set up. We suggest curring all of your penetrations for plumbing, electrical, exhuast etc. before adding concrete to the wall.
I don't know what slump they used on this specific project. This video touches on our recommendations for concrete mix design and slump ruclips.net/video/9EUO-9UHBVE/видео.html. Thanks for stopping by.
Hey Guillermo, you can learn a little more about installing electrical with these videos- ruclips.net/video/etHzRRF8xao/видео.html and ruclips.net/video/i0oVOGw30HU/видео.html. You can also register for our free online training at training.buildblock.com/. Thanks!
this is the method I plan on using to build my house. I really want to do an all ice home including the flat roof that I want. I live in tornado prone area so it makes sense to go full icf. what are some drawbacks to doing a roof of icf an how is it done? thanks an I enjoy your channel
Hey Sean. There really aren't any drawbacks to doing an ICF roof. It may take a little more time and be a little more expensive but that's about it. Finishing an ICF home with an insulated concrete roof is the best way to make the home disaster proof. Building with ICF top to bottom gives you a finished product that is complete, cohesive, and will last forever. ICF roofs are accomplished with ICF decking. BuildDeck is an affordable system that comes in multiple thicknesses, is easy to install, and can create either a flat or pitched roof. BuildDeck provides superior structural integrity while also delivering low air infiltration and sound mitigation. You can read more about it here buildblock.com/products/builddeck-floor-roofing/.
BuildBlock ICFs I appreciate your help. do you think custom trusses would need to be built for say a 78' foot depth roof? the dimensions would be approximately 78' depth an 47' width
You may or may not need custom trusses, but you will need custom engineering since those dimensions fall outside of the applicability limits in our prescriptive engineering. If you look at buildblock.com/technical-support/engineering-tables/ and download the BuildBlock engineering manual, page 4 has the applicability limits used in our tables. The HUD prescriptive is also on that same page, and uses the same limits. (40 ft. 12M unsupported). If you reach out to Rebecca or Dennis at technical@buildblock.com we can provide you with contact information for ICF friendly engineers. Though any structural engineer should be able to use our engineering as a starting point. Let us know how else we can help. BC
Why didn't they vibrate the concrete during its placement? Seems to me this step would be important. Also what is the recommend slump and mix for cliff.
Tom D Thank you for your comment! Although we strive to provide as much information as possible to our viewers concerning BuildBlock ICF construction this feature story for HomeTime does not cover every step that went into the entire construction process for this project. We would love for you to take a look at our Installation and Technical manual for information concerning our recommendations for vibrating walls and Slump tests. Here is the link: buildblock.com/technical-support/installation-manuals/
What is the strongest wall? I saw ICF blocks that has 12" in width for reinforced concrete. when you make a reinforced base bring steel bars from it to the wall so its totally shock earthquake proof.
The footing that the walls sits on also must be reinforced per local codes, site specific engineering, or other building codes. Vertical steel from the footing must extend from the footing into the vertical wall at least 25" or more again depending on site specific engineering, prescriptive engineering, or local or international building codes.
Another noted thing is the length between vertical steel bars, I would like to know the best reinforcement that makes the home built for 100 years! Also galvanized epoxy steel is better than normal steel. Aluminum is expensive and has less flexibility.
There are really a couple of good options for reinforcement that we recommend. We also believe that these structures will last for centuries because not only are they built with reinforced concrete, but the concrete is protected by the EPS foam and the interior and exterior finishes. We recommend Grade 60 rebar. The specific size is based on the structure, spans, etc. Typically #5 horizontally and vertically. You can choose galvanized or coated rebar, but for most structures this would seem to be overkill and a waste of money for minimal benefit. The other option that has been very well received is Helix microrebar. This is added to the concrete mix as it is poured and can replace all rebar in the structure or at least the horizontal. There is a price premium involved, but there are many years of proven satisfaction and code compliance testing. Lastly, as far as spacing, that will be determined the the load on the structure. We do recommended a horizontal rebar every course for maximum strength and then rebar based on the engineering tables we provide in our engineering manual or site specific engineering.
Hi Rox. Yes, you can use just about any finish you like on an ICF project, including vinyl siding. You can learn more about finishes here ruclips.net/video/eW-0gUayxDg/видео.html.
Can you make roofs using the same ICF system. I don't see the point of using ICF for the exterior walls and traditional wood frames for the interior walls and roof.
Nu B- Thanks for the question! BuildBlock has a product called BuildDeck which is a Floor & Roofing Decking System. BuildDeck is a lightweight, stay-in-place Insulating Concrete Form (ICF) and used to construct a solid monolithic insulating concrete floor and/or roof decking system. Options include a Flat roof deck or up to 6/12 pitch withstandard concrete and steeper pitches can be done with Shotcrete reinforced ICF roof. Recommended integral waterproofing (Penetron or Xypex) and roof coatings, such as peel and stick or spray applied roof coatings.Here is the link for our BuildDeck Product: buildblock.com/products/builddeck-floor-roofing/ Please let us know if you have any more questions.
I believe they used a standard concrete sealing product. We also recommend penetron on another sealant added to the concrete mix itself if you are concerned about water intrusion into the footing. Below grade the footing and all below grade walls should also be waterproofed appropriately. Typically is a water based primer, peel & stick membrane and an air gap membrane layered and applied correctly. The BuildBlock Guide to ICF Waterproofing covers all of these systems and strategies as well as other products and suggestions. buildblock.com/waterproofing-icf-homes/
Typically the cost for ICFs is about 3-5% more than traditional construction. This can be reduced further through other savings such as reduced HVAC sizes, etc. The cost of ICFs will typically pay for themselves in the first 5 years of a home and the savings continue throughout the life of the home.
Vertical seams are common in ICF projects. When starting from corners and working toward a common point, many wall lengths do not evenly work with ICF form dimensions. If possible vertical seams can be placed above doors or windows and should be as far away from corners as possible.All vertical seams must be braced and strapped appropriately. In the above video, there is a quick double corner with a very short return. This was built using alternating corner forms with a small vertical seam.
Leaving a foundation exposed to the cold is asking for trouble. The footings right now are heaved, since they are on frozen ground. Once spring comes, it will settle, and crack your foundation to hell, and place your foundation out of level. I am a structural engineering, and it never ceases to amaze me of the little knowledge most builders have. Not only that, but they are documenting it, so the lawyer representing the property owner can use it in court of law during their law suit for incompetence and negligence. What a joke.
Yes, all of our products exceed current building codes. EPS foam, when used in building products, contains a fire retardant added to the bead before it is expanded and molded. Our walls have a 3-4 hour fire rating. You can learn more about ICFs and fire considerations here buildblock.com/icfs/safety/fire-resistant/ and here buildblock.com/asked-answered-eps-foam-and-fire-retardants/
How in the world would it make it more fire proof then a traditional concrete foundation . If you ask me the old way is more fire proof then these I.C.F.s, other than the wooden forms burning witch wouldn't matter all that much cause the house wouldn't even be up when the forms are on. With these Insulated Concrete Forms (I.C.F.) the polystyrene is the form, and it says on after the concrete is poured and I ant no expert but I'm pretty sure that that shit will burn way before a straight concrete foundation will. As a matter of fact polystyrene (Styrofoam) and kerosene is how you make homemade napalm. I want whoever reads this to do an experiment get some Styrofoam and a chunk of concrete and hold a flame to it and reply back to this comment with your results Thank you
Mike Cunningham EPS foam when used in building products contains a fire retardant added to the bead before it is expanded and molded. Additionally EPS foam with this fire retardant is not a fuel source. Also when exposed to high heat EPS foam doesn't burn, it melts since it is expanded with steam and only contains air. The EPS foam used in packaging and shipping is not the same as EPS foam used in construction products. The reason it is superior to standard poured wall construction is the insulation value of the EPS foam itself prevents the heat of the fire from transferring to the interior of structure for several hours. In a wildfire situation this is generally longer than the fire burns in a given area. For fire to transfer to the inside of a structure it must heat the outside finish (brick, siding, stucco, etc.) to a temperature that will cause ignition on the next layer beneath (EPS Foam). That layer must be consumed and burn at a hot enough temperature to transfer enough heat to the next layer, (a reinforced concrete wall) and then that must have enough heat to again transfer to the inside layer (another EPS foam layer) which also must be consumed before transferring enough heat to ignite the drywall or interior finish as well. Our products are tested by Intertek and carry a 3-hour fire rating on the wall without any finishes. The wall will last 4+ hours. Untreated EPS foam burns at 650° to 700°F with a flame source. It won't continue burning on its own until 840° to 930°F is reached. Wood burns at 480° to 660°F. Please visit our website for product testing information or contact us with any questions.
That is really dang interesting - though there's something unsettling about the white polystyrene color =p I mean intellectually I know the R-value and general durability and that's all that should matter... but still, just hard to shake lol
Did anyone notice at 4:12, you can see the guy is NOT doing the job correctly? Very important, you MUST not stack the joins on top of other joins. They MUST be offset for added strength. I will build a house with ICFs, but use #8 stainless steel rebar, yup, a full 1" thick of stainless steel sweetness! Also, you never hear these nuckleheads talk about the concrete blend. Concrete is NOT concrete! Sidewalks usually consist of a 1,200 to 1,500 PSI strength blend, whereas these walls might be 2,500 to 3,000. I will use a 5,000 PSI blend for superior strength and peace of mind. The less wood in my home the better!
I built an ICF home and staggered my joints. It was easy to do in the planning phase. Did it matter? once the concrete is dry- NO. during the pour "it may" have prevented blowouts. All "cut" seams had four 1/2" x 2" wood strips overlapping the seam by screwing one strip on the outside of the block at the top and one at the bottom- both inside and outside. I only had one blow out- it was at a seam I had overlooked and had not applied the wood strips. zero blow outs anywhere else. Using 12' as teh vertical limit with the initial pour you can literally see the concrete hit the bottom and fill the caivuty up. I did not use any concrete consolidation devices and I have zero airpockets- a good pump operator was key- he was able to adjust the flow as we went around the top of the forms filling about 24" inches each time we walked around the scaffolding. I could see how pouring fast could create air pockets.
Nope. You're in an insulated concrete home with better air quality, lower energy bills and walls that are soundproof, disaster resistant, and fire resistant. You'll sleep great!
ICFs are manufactured with a flame retardant additive. The material will melt when exposed to flame but not burn. BuildBlock has been tested and received a 4-hour firewall rating from an independent testing facility. When compared to wood and other traditional materials, ICFs stand up to fire extremely well. You can learn more about ICFs and fire resistance here buildblock.com/insulating-concrete-forms-icfs/icf-disaster-resistant/fire-resistant/.
Not with ICFs! The forms go up easily in any temperature and insulate the concrete during the pour. Once filled with concrete, the walls provide a comfortable place to work, protecting you from wind and weather and adding speed to the build with fewer delays.
So home time never had the sales rep on sight training and measuring at stacking and completion of pour. Old school guys inspecting work or building inspector. No sample test Ing of mix and spec to code. A half ass job to train contractor inspector owner and owners rep.
This 16-minute video doesn't show every single piece of the build. There were several BuildBlock representatives on site for this build and the ICF Installer is a professional who has been in the business for many years. Inspections were done, concrete was tested, and the project went very smoothly. This video is intended to inform on the use of ICFs in residential construction. If you're looking for training, we would recommend our training website- buildblock.com/training and training videos-ruclips.net/p/PLMFDU7ZHdfWpq4Nul1yohz3koxVQwKui8. Thanks for stopping by!
Love the system BUT who the hell needs a home that big, one day the laws will tell you how big to build according to your family size and I agree 1000% so much wasted space even out in the country is a WASTE of energy I dont care who you are. In a world that is growing so fast with people living on the streets in citys this style would make great shelters etc.
I would need a video of scientific proof, testing, and another that explains how it's done/made before I would use this. Might try a different style of videoing, because that seemed like brainwash bs, because of the fakeness, and the script reading.
The best build method I have ever seen.
I've missed your show on cable, and even though I only caught it spuratically I really enjoyed your way of presenting the work, It's good to see you haven't stopped.
I'm sitting hear in Melbourne Australia and the temperature is 35 C and its going to get hotter next week. It never snows! I can't believe these guys are building in the snow! I'm planning to build an ICF house here for the bushfire/wildfire protection. and because it will be cooler in the summer.
What company, builder or ICF type have you chosen - I am in Bacchus Marsh 1 hr west of Melbourne and would like to build with ICFs but it is not easy to find builders who know how to use this stuff in regional Victoria
I''m not architect, engineer or anything like that,,,but I love so much the use of this material. I made my Christmas nativity using foam,,,it is just so versatile,,,,now studying town planning,,,looking into building construction methods,,I found this video,,and it is just fantastic,,,
Thank you Karina! Visit our website BuildBlock.com to see more projects on our blog and galleries.
THIS GUY IS ACTUALLY ONE OF THE BETTER COMMUNICATORS' I HAVE SEEN IN CONSTRUCTION.
D Armon, I was looking for someone who commented on this so I could put in my 2 cents... you're absolutely correct. His style is calm, cool, and collected sprinkled with good info.
cheers from Steel City Canada.
D Armon ㄦ
I ran pumps for 38 years. This guy did it right. Some guys tried building the walls to high and these foam forms just blew out. They would blame the pump and it would be a night mare. This is a decent system on this pour.
I could see blaming the pump if it was a completely closed system, due to the very high pressures, but, as the concrete is effectively only falling from the pipe, thus dissipating the pressure, it can only be due to a failure in the blocks, and their assembly on site.
Vibrators, and offsets, on blocks one over the other, is good thing to have in this type of construction system!
Great video thank you I am thinking about using these to put my log home on.
Sounds great! Check out this story about a couple who did the same thing buildblock.com/icf-log-cabin/. When you're ready to start planning, give us a call at 405-840-3386.
LOL, I live in the Philippines. Our problem is typhoons and torrential rain. Bu I am not worried about snow.
Hahaha, yeah probably not too much snow for you!
ICFs handle extremely well in the wind and rain as well. Follow this link to see how ICFs have held up in hurricane and tornado debris tests. buildblock.com/icfs/safety/high-winds/
You should lay those drainage pipes around the entire bottom of the house . Make that water run away
Great product and user friendly.
thats perfect-im a building guy,and this is awsome for me!!!
It's a warm day here in Minnesota let me grab my flip flops.
i wonder if screwing the dimple material through the waterproofing could lead to water intrusion?
I didn't know Dave was a builder before the tonight show host gig!
Excelente o método construtivo, o Brasil, meu país, precisa disso. Parabéns.
why you no show the waterproofing of the footing? where are you tying the vertical rebar to the footing?
Love ICF
In Iraq this type will be very useful because summer 8 month 135F hot weather
How much does it cost to build 2000sq feet two story (without basement) house with this ICF method? Open floor plan on Ground level; living room, kitchen, dining room, a flex room and a powder room. Upstairs 2 big bedrooms, a master bedroom and two bathrooms etc. something simple and straight forward.
Do you have a distributor of ICF in the Philippines?
Fram a house plywood and use plastic caps plus your trusty hammer is also good you know
ok, i see, build house like this. but how to deal water tube and wires in wall?
Hey Fuda. Plumbing and electrical is easily chased into the ICF wall. You can see how it's done here ruclips.net/video/i0oVOGw30HU/видео.html. Thanks for stopping by!
Did anyone notice the seams lining up @ 4:09 and again @ 14:09
Yup, I already mentioned that mistake! lol
Its called a common seam.... Its where the blocks that have to be cut short all meet.
Its reinforced on the outsides usually with pieces of timber and extends from the floor to the top of the wall... with all the seams or joints in a vertical line.
Its not a mistake, the common seam allows the wall to be any length. You always start from the corners and work to the centre. Then adjust the form where they meet i.e. the common seam. They make special parts to strengthen the common seam or use wood.
Yes common seam.that make H-clips to be placed 16 inches on center.and place straps on outside.plus glue seams.its better to just flip blocks over when possible
there will always be some dik who watches a vid and finds an error lmao~
how much does it cost for a 60 sqm.floor area house?
I didn't see any vibration of the concrete. Did I just miss it ?
+GordWing Great question! HomeTime didn't show the vibration process in this segment but you are right, concrete in ICF walls should always be internally vibrated to prevent honeycombing and create a strong solid wall. We recommend a low impact pencil vibrator with a 3/4 to 1 inch head.
Glad to hear that... I love Hometime. I've been watching it for 20+ years.
Absolutely. It's a great program and they were awesome to work with.
555
What did you mean when you said waterproofing did you not put a Rubber seal in the concrete on the foundation floor for the walls that keep the water out you know they do make a seal that goes into the first Port of the concrete between the rebar so when you pour the wall the concrete goes around the other half of the shield been around for decades you ought to try it works very good not much work
just wondering how you put the wiring electrical outlet in wall ?
Hi Seannn! Check out this video from our installer training series ruclips.net/video/i0oVOGw30HU/видео.html. You can also get more in-depth training on our free training site training.buildblock.com/. Thanks for stopping by!
thank you very much guys :)
I got also a question .. if i want to Plumber job inside the wall after i already installed the wall, hows that ? can you please tell me about i would be more thankful :)
Hey Seannn, It's advisable to do any plumbing that goes through the wall before the wall is poured. Since you're dealing with concrete, it can be pretty difficult to add plumbing after the wall is poured and set up. We suggest curring all of your penetrations for plumbing, electrical, exhuast etc. before adding concrete to the wall.
Thanks :)
What mpa & slump was the concrete ? As it looked like soup and as we all know, excessive water in concrete drematiclly reduces it's strength
I don't know what slump they used on this specific project. This video touches on our recommendations for concrete mix design and slump ruclips.net/video/9EUO-9UHBVE/видео.html. Thanks for stopping by.
How will they re-electrcal wire few years later?
run conduit in the inner insulation
No one has explained or showed how the preparations to distribute electrical wiring inside the walls of this kind of house construction
Hey Guillermo, you can learn a little more about installing electrical with these videos- ruclips.net/video/etHzRRF8xao/видео.html and ruclips.net/video/i0oVOGw30HU/видео.html. You can also register for our free online training at training.buildblock.com/. Thanks!
this is the method I plan on using to build my house. I really want to do an all ice home including the flat roof that I want. I live in tornado prone area so it makes sense to go full icf.
what are some drawbacks to doing a roof of icf an how is it done?
thanks an I enjoy your channel
Hey Sean. There really aren't any drawbacks to doing an ICF roof. It may take a little more time and be a little more expensive but that's about it. Finishing an ICF home with an insulated concrete roof is the best way to make the home disaster proof. Building with ICF top to bottom gives you a finished product that is complete, cohesive, and will last forever.
ICF roofs are accomplished with ICF decking. BuildDeck is an affordable system that comes in multiple thicknesses, is easy to install, and can create either a flat or pitched roof. BuildDeck provides superior structural integrity while also delivering low air infiltration and sound mitigation. You can read more about it here buildblock.com/products/builddeck-floor-roofing/.
BuildBlock ICFs
I appreciate your help. do you think custom trusses would need to be built for say a 78' foot depth roof?
the dimensions would be approximately 78' depth an 47' width
You may or may not need custom trusses, but you will need custom engineering since those dimensions fall outside of the applicability limits in our prescriptive engineering. If you look at buildblock.com/technical-support/engineering-tables/ and download the BuildBlock engineering manual, page 4 has the applicability limits used in our tables. The HUD prescriptive is also on that same page, and uses the same limits. (40 ft. 12M unsupported).
If you reach out to Rebecca or Dennis at technical@buildblock.com we can provide you with contact information for ICF friendly engineers. Though any structural engineer should be able to use our engineering as a starting point.
Let us know how else we can help.
BC
Why didn't they vibrate the concrete during its placement? Seems to me this step would be important. Also what is the recommend slump and mix for cliff.
Tom D Thank you for your comment! Although we strive to provide as much information as possible to our viewers concerning BuildBlock ICF construction this feature story for HomeTime does not cover every step that went into the entire construction process for this project. We would love for you to take a look at our Installation and Technical manual for information concerning our recommendations for vibrating walls and Slump tests. Here is the link: buildblock.com/technical-support/installation-manuals/
Tom D
What is the strongest wall? I saw ICF blocks that has 12" in width for reinforced concrete.
when you make a reinforced base bring steel bars from it to the wall so its totally shock earthquake proof.
The footing that the walls sits on also must be reinforced per local codes, site specific engineering, or other building codes. Vertical steel from the footing must extend from the footing into the vertical wall at least 25" or more again depending on site specific engineering, prescriptive engineering, or local or international building codes.
Another noted thing is the length between vertical steel bars, I would like to know the best reinforcement that makes the home built for 100 years! Also galvanized epoxy steel is better than normal steel. Aluminum is expensive and has less flexibility.
There are really a couple of good options for reinforcement that we recommend. We also believe that these structures will last for centuries because not only are they built with reinforced concrete, but the concrete is protected by the EPS foam and the interior and exterior finishes.
We recommend Grade 60 rebar. The specific size is based on the structure, spans, etc. Typically #5 horizontally and vertically. You can choose galvanized or coated rebar, but for most structures this would seem to be overkill and a waste of money for minimal benefit.
The other option that has been very well received is Helix microrebar. This is added to the concrete mix as it is poured and can replace all rebar in the structure or at least the horizontal. There is a price premium involved, but there are many years of proven satisfaction and code compliance testing.
Lastly, as far as spacing, that will be determined the the load on the structure. We do recommended a horizontal rebar every course for maximum strength and then rebar based on the engineering tables we provide in our engineering manual or site specific engineering.
Has anyone used basalt rebar during these builds?
can you show me some finished projects. Maybe some that people live in?
check this project www.buildingmycastle.com/
can you put vinyl siding on it ?
Hi Rox. Yes, you can use just about any finish you like on an ICF project, including vinyl siding. You can learn more about finishes here ruclips.net/video/eW-0gUayxDg/видео.html.
Can you make roofs using the same ICF system. I don't see the point of using ICF for the exterior walls and traditional wood frames for the interior walls and roof.
Nu B- Thanks for the question! BuildBlock has a product called BuildDeck which is a Floor & Roofing Decking System. BuildDeck is a lightweight, stay-in-place Insulating Concrete Form (ICF) and used to construct a solid monolithic insulating concrete floor and/or roof decking system. Options include a Flat roof deck or up to 6/12 pitch withstandard concrete and steeper pitches can be done with Shotcrete reinforced ICF roof. Recommended integral waterproofing (Penetron or Xypex) and roof coatings, such as peel and stick or spray applied roof coatings.Here is the link for our BuildDeck Product: buildblock.com/products/builddeck-floor-roofing/ Please let us know if you have any more questions.
What product did you use to seal the top of the footing? Thanks
I believe they used a standard concrete sealing product. We also recommend penetron on another sealant added to the concrete mix itself if you are concerned about water intrusion into the footing. Below grade the footing and all below grade walls should also be waterproofed appropriately. Typically is a water based primer, peel & stick membrane and an air gap membrane layered and applied correctly.
The BuildBlock Guide to ICF Waterproofing covers all of these systems and strategies as well as other products and suggestions. buildblock.com/waterproofing-icf-homes/
Tremco 250 ...fully cured
Please sell this in malaysia because using wood is expensive
These guys are putting their seams on the second row in the same place as the first. They should be staggering their cuts.
Joe Bowman for block that would be correct. For ICF, you always have a straight vertical joint
what a nastY attitude from the PROFETIONAL BUILDER
How much cost it will be taken for a new dream home?!
Typically the cost for ICFs is about 3-5% more than traditional construction. This can be reduced further through other savings such as reduced HVAC sizes, etc. The cost of ICFs will typically pay for themselves in the first 5 years of a home and the savings continue throughout the life of the home.
Nice
How much is it per block if you don't mind me asking?
For retail pricing, you can visit our website buildblock.com/store/pricing/. You can also give us a call any time at 405-840-3386.
14:14 ... seam not overlapping?
Vertical seams are common in ICF projects. When starting from corners and working toward a common point, many wall lengths do not evenly work with ICF form dimensions. If possible vertical seams can be placed above doors or windows and should be as far away from corners as possible.All vertical seams must be braced and strapped appropriately.
In the above video, there is a quick double corner with a very short return. This was built using alternating corner forms with a small vertical seam.
Big boy Legos!
Leaving a foundation exposed to the cold is asking for trouble. The footings right now are heaved, since they are on frozen ground. Once spring comes, it will settle, and crack your foundation to hell, and place your foundation out of level. I am a structural engineering, and it never ceases to amaze me of the little knowledge most builders have. Not only that, but they are documenting it, so the lawyer representing the property owner can use it in court of law during their law suit for incompetence and negligence. What a joke.
Is thepolystyrene up to code is it fire retardent
Yes, all of our products exceed current building codes. EPS foam, when used in building products, contains a fire retardant added to the bead before it is expanded and molded. Our walls have a 3-4 hour fire rating. You can learn more about ICFs and fire considerations here buildblock.com/icfs/safety/fire-resistant/ and here buildblock.com/asked-answered-eps-foam-and-fire-retardants/
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wonderment ......
How in the world would it make it more fire proof then a traditional concrete foundation . If you ask me the old way is more fire proof then these I.C.F.s, other than the wooden forms burning witch wouldn't matter all that much cause the house wouldn't even be up when the forms are on. With these Insulated Concrete Forms (I.C.F.) the polystyrene is the form, and it says on after the concrete is poured and I ant no expert but I'm pretty sure that that shit will burn way before a straight concrete foundation will. As a matter of fact polystyrene (Styrofoam) and kerosene is how you make homemade napalm. I want whoever reads this to do an experiment get some Styrofoam and a chunk of concrete and hold a flame to it and reply back to this comment with your results
Thank you
Mike Cunningham EPS foam when used in building products contains a fire retardant added to the bead before it is expanded and molded. Additionally EPS foam with this fire retardant is not a fuel source. Also when exposed to high heat EPS foam doesn't burn, it melts since it is expanded with steam and only contains air. The EPS foam used in packaging and shipping is not the same as EPS foam used in construction products.
The reason it is superior to standard poured wall construction is the insulation value of the EPS foam itself prevents the heat of the fire from transferring to the interior of structure for several hours. In a wildfire situation this is generally longer than the fire burns in a given area.
For fire to transfer to the inside of a structure it must heat the outside finish (brick, siding, stucco, etc.) to a temperature that will cause ignition on the next layer beneath (EPS Foam). That layer must be consumed and burn at a hot enough temperature to transfer enough heat to the next layer, (a reinforced concrete wall) and then that must have enough heat to again transfer to the inside layer (another EPS foam layer) which also must be consumed before transferring enough heat to ignite the drywall or interior finish as well.
Our products are tested by Intertek and carry a 3-hour fire rating on the wall without any finishes. The wall will last 4+ hours. Untreated EPS foam burns at 650° to 700°F with a flame source. It won't continue burning on its own until 840° to 930°F is reached. Wood burns at 480° to 660°F.
Please visit our website for product testing information or contact us with any questions.
That is really dang interesting - though there's something unsettling about the white polystyrene color =p I mean intellectually I know the R-value and general durability and that's all that should matter... but still, just hard to shake lol
Did anyone notice at 4:12, you can see the guy is NOT doing the job correctly? Very important, you MUST not stack the joins on top of other joins. They MUST be offset for added strength. I will build a house with ICFs, but use #8 stainless steel rebar, yup, a full 1" thick of stainless steel sweetness! Also, you never hear these nuckleheads talk about the concrete blend. Concrete is NOT concrete! Sidewalks usually consist of a 1,200 to 1,500 PSI strength blend, whereas these walls might be 2,500 to 3,000. I will use a 5,000 PSI blend for superior strength and peace of mind. The less wood in my home the better!
AMD Guru for block walls, you would stagger joints. For ICF, you always have a straight, vertical joint.
I built an ICF home and staggered my joints. It was easy to do in the planning phase. Did it matter? once the concrete is dry- NO. during the pour "it may" have prevented blowouts. All "cut" seams had four 1/2" x 2" wood strips overlapping the seam by screwing one strip on the outside of the block at the top and one at the bottom- both inside and outside. I only had one blow out- it was at a seam I had overlooked and had not applied the wood strips. zero blow outs anywhere else. Using 12' as teh vertical limit with the initial pour you can literally see the concrete hit the bottom and fill the caivuty up. I did not use any concrete consolidation devices and I have zero airpockets- a good pump operator was key- he was able to adjust the flow as we went around the top of the forms filling about 24" inches each time we walked around the scaffolding. I could see how pouring fast could create air pockets.
So,you are inside a plastic box! I would have to a lot of testing,*myself*,before i slept easy.
Nope. You're in an insulated concrete home with better air quality, lower energy bills and walls that are soundproof, disaster resistant, and fire resistant. You'll sleep great!
"More fire proof"
I think he might be wrong on that..as far as foundations go..
Styrofoam is extremely flamable..concrete is not..
ICFs are manufactured with a flame retardant additive. The material will melt when exposed to flame but not burn. BuildBlock has been tested and received a 4-hour firewall rating from an independent testing facility. When compared to wood and other traditional materials, ICFs stand up to fire extremely well. You can learn more about ICFs and fire resistance here buildblock.com/insulating-concrete-forms-icfs/icf-disaster-resistant/fire-resistant/.
I only see one thing to complain about and that is the guy cutting the foam with the skill saw should have a mask foam is very bad to breathe
A bit late in the year to build I would say.
Not with ICFs! The forms go up easily in any temperature and insulate the concrete during the pour. Once filled with concrete, the walls provide a comfortable place to work, protecting you from wind and weather and adding speed to the build with fewer delays.
BuildBlock ICFs I meant the framing but I guess some want to get it up / get it done.
Gotcha, and yeah you're right. ICFs definitely make framing easier/faster but depending on the season the stacking day may be a cold one!
So home time never had the sales rep on sight training and measuring at stacking and completion of pour. Old school guys inspecting work or building inspector. No sample test Ing of mix and spec to code. A half ass job to train contractor inspector owner and owners rep.
This 16-minute video doesn't show every single piece of the build. There were several BuildBlock representatives on site for this build and the ICF Installer is a professional who has been in the business for many years. Inspections were done, concrete was tested, and the project went very smoothly. This video is intended to inform on the use of ICFs in residential construction. If you're looking for training, we would recommend our training website- buildblock.com/training and training videos-ruclips.net/p/PLMFDU7ZHdfWpq4Nul1yohz3koxVQwKui8. Thanks for stopping by!
Love the system BUT who the hell needs a home that big, one day the laws will tell you how big to build according to your family size and I agree 1000% so much wasted space even out in the country is a WASTE of energy I dont care who you are. In a world that is growing so fast with people living on the streets in citys this style would make great shelters etc.
If you want to live in housing like you describe check out the old soviet apartment buildings. Quite nice......
I would need a video of scientific proof, testing, and another that explains how it's done/made before I would use this. Might try a different style of videoing, because that seemed like brainwash bs, because of the fakeness, and the script reading.
Not sure if the script reading is a good thing or a bad thing..