The Fox Blocks Line-Up at a Glance
With advice from leading contractors in the Insulated Concrete Form business, Fox Blocks has created an incredible group of blocks.
How to Layout Scaffold on Fox Blocks' Insulated Concrete Form Walls
When you’re building with insulated concrete forms, chances are you’re going to need to set up scaffolding.
The Fox Block Interlock
When the Fox Blocks interlock was designed our Engineering staff made the choice not to focus on being within 1÷2” to 1” from the building dimension but to give the strongest interlock possible.
New Training for the Fox Block Interlock
We have found it to be a waste of time and energy to attempt to offset or stagger the block as in the photo to the left. By creating a vertical stacked seam you will be more accurate with the job dimensions and will increase your profit by gaining efficiency.
How do I apply an acrylic stucco finish to an ICF?
Acrylic stucco is a thin coat finish which can be directly applied to the EPS insulation on the exterior face of the ICF. Fox Blocks provides a continuous EPS surface conducive for the application of acrylic stucco. All acrylic stucco manufactures are familiar with ICFs as a substrate and each have their recommendations for application over ICFs. Note there is a difference in the installation procedures between acrylic stucco and traditional stucco.
Is the Fox Blocks form recyclable?
Yes, every component of the Fox Blocks form itself plus the concrete and reinforcement bars are recyclable.
Can I leave Fox Blocks forms exposed to ultraviolet rays for an extended period (months)?
Yes, but you will notice a light dusting on the surface and a yellowing discoloration of the forms. This does not indicate any detrimental effects to the ICFs. We do suggest, that if the exterior finish is not going to be installed within around a 3 month period or more, the forms be protected from UV rays by installing a temporary building wrap type material. The powdery film must be removed with soap and water before the application of a synthetic stucco finish or waterproofing membrane.
Is there a problem when placing concrete, dropping concrete from the top of the wall which may be over 8' (2.4 m)?
No. Specifications in the America Concrete Institute (ACI) do not limit the maximum distance concrete can free fall. Engineering studies and reports have shown that free fall from up to 35′ doesn’t reduce concrete quality and there is no evidence of segregation or weakened concrete strength. ICF concrete design calls for a high slump mix which assists in reducing segregation.
What fasteners are recommended for ICFs?
Fox Blocks has conducted numerous fastener tests for pull-out strength and shear capacity for various fasteners – screws, ring shank nails and staples into the plastic webs. The recommendation for interior and exterior applications of finish materials is for the use of screws which provide the best holding capacity into the plastic webs or fastening strips in the forms which are identified on each block.
The EPS insulation does not provide any holding capacity for fasteners.
When can I backfill the foundation wall?
The concrete must cure for a minimum of 7 days and the foundation wall must be laterally supported, meaning the floor system is installed supporting the top of the wall. All below grade waterproofing / dampproofing must be installed.