Can I install a 16' garage door and / or large openings in a concrete wall?
Yes, if the following criteria is available for the design of a concrete lintel (beam) over the opening – concrete lintel depth minimum 16″ (400 mm) or more with no point loads. Larger openings would require an engineered design.
Does EPS ‘off gas’?
EPS does not off-gas. Fox Blocks forms do not and never have contained any CFC or HCFC products. The forms are made by a steam process that utilizes ‘pentene gas’ as a blowing agent. The blowing agent dissipates from the product within 48 hours of manufacturing. Fox Blocks forms are odorless, do not deteriorate, and do not off gas.
Do I need an engineer to design and stamp Fox Blocks building plans?
Fox Blocks are listed in the building codes (IRC- Sections R404, R611 or NBCC Part 9) with specific applicability limits for residential construction. If the project meets the applicability limits within the building code, a Professional Engineer may not be required (dependent on local building department requirements). A building official has the right to request engineering and in some regions all projects require a professional’s stamp. For any projects that exceed the applicability limits, a Professional Engineer is required for the structural design. Check with your local building department.
Is burning EPS toxic?
Test reports conducted by the National Research Council state: “The maximum toxicity index obtained from the combustion of polystyrene was of the same order as that of wood.” Fox Blocks ICFs have been tested to meet building code requirements for flame spread ratings, smoke development and toxicity
Is installing ICFs a DIY project?
Fox Blocks recommends that all installers using Fox Blocks ICFs complete a Fox Blocks training program to ensure they have a better understanding of the basics. However, for first time installers, it is preferred that a Fox Blocks trained, experienced installer inspect the installation prior to placement of concrete and assist in the placement of the concrete, as they are familiar with working with concrete and can ensure the build is structurally sound and safe and the walls are consolidated properly, built straight and plumb.
How do frame in openings?
Fox Blocks has developed the Fox Buck specifically to frame openings such as windows and doors. The Fox Buck provides insulation around the opening plus support for the attachment of the window or door.
How do I protect the ICFs below grade?
All ICF walls below grade, that have habitable space on one side (basement), must have a waterproofing / dampproofing membrane installed. For walls that do not have habitable space on one side (crawl space, frost walls, etc.) the EPS can be left exposed to the earth. The EPS will not deteriorate when exposed to the earth.
How are Fox Blocks green/environmentally friendly?
Fox Blocks contain a minimum of 40% recycled content by weight.
- Fox Blocks do not off-gas and are not manufactured using any gases that deplete the ozone or are harmful to the environment.
- Fox Blocks require low embodied energy to manufacture.
- Fox Blocks do not contain any materials, that promote mold or mildew growth.
- Fox Blocks are an efficient construction method thereby reducing the amount of construction waste, dust and air pollution in the building process.
- Building with Fox Blocks will save on heating and cooling costs because less air is exchanged between the outside and inside of your home. This also means a smaller more efficient HVAC unit is required for the home.
- Fox Blocks are sustainable. They will not rot or deteriorate for the life of your home.
- Fox Blocks provide a secure, durable, comfortable, long lasting building
Do ICFs promote mold or mildew growth?
EPS is an inert, organic material. It provides no nutritive value to plants, animals or micro-organisms. It will not rot and is highly resistant to mold and mildew.
Do ICFs require a special concrete mix design?
The concrete is normal strength, minimum 2500 psi (20 MPa) per building codes. The mix design specifies a smaller aggregate and higher slump than concrete typically used for floors. Most Ready-Mix suppliers are familiar with an ICF concrete mix design.