ICF blocks and panels

ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms) is a wall building material that may differ a lot in its shapes (blocks, panels, planks) and also in its insulation values, foam types, or on their cavity design.

ICF blocks and panels also differ on how they attach to each other, or on how finishes are attached to the forms to make the walls.

ICF Panels, ICF blocks and ICF planks

There are three basic ICF form types: ICF blocks, ICF planks (held together with plastic ties) and ICF panels.

It's with these types of ICF forms that the wall configurations are built, including posts, beams and grids. ICF forms also provide the backing for exterior and interior finishes.

ICF panels and blocks: a huge variety of productsICF blocks

ICF blocks involve small individual units than panels.

Smaller units are 8 inches x 1 foot 4 inches (20 cm x 40 cm), but the most common ICF block is 10 inches (25 cm) in its overall width, with a 6 inches (15 cm) cavity for the concrete.

Blocks are typically factory-molded with interlocking edges to fit them together.

ICF Panels

ICF panels are the largest units. Their foam edges are flat, and their interconnection requires the attachment of a separate connector or "tie."

Panels are typically assembled - on site or prior to delivery, by local distributors - into units before being set in place.

ICF Planks

ICF plank systems are very similar to ICF panels. The major difference is on how they are assembled: planks are outfitted with ties while panels are pre-assembled into units.

ICF Cavity design

Insulated Concrete Forms also vary in their cavity design, which involves three main types:ICF cavity width for ICF blocks and panels

- Flat wall systems produce a continuous concrete wall, like a conventional poured wall.
- Grid wall systems have a waffle pattern, with the concrete layer thicker at some points.
- Post and beam systems have vertical columns of concrete encapsulated in the foam forms.

The cavity width varies a lot (see image on right).

The form content and their thickness

Some ICF manufacturers use thicker insulation layers for their blocks and panels than others, and that is a feature to pay attention to. Thicker foam/insulation material will yield a more energy-efficiency home.

Pay also attention to the type of material: expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), recycled polystyrene, proprietary material…

See: ICF Manufacturers

Insect treatment and waterproofing

To help prevent problems with insects or groundwater, most manufacturers offer insecticide-treated and waterproofing ICF blocks and panels.

See also: