find technical resources to help complete your build
BuildBlock maintains an informational library of technical documents and resources to help make your project a success.
Technical Articles
In this section, find instructional technical guides to help with planning, installation, finishing and more.
Research & Whitepapers
This section is dedicated to collecting original technical research, whitepapers, and published industry research to assist in evaluating and constructing with BuildBlock Insulating Concrete Forms.
See ICFs in action & learn more about building with icfs!
BuildBlock Technical Articles & Blog Posts
Bracing ICF Stem Walls
When working with BuildBlock ICF walls, including stem walls and crawl space walls, proper bracing is essential to ensure your walls stay plumb during the pour. Concrete is heavy, and EPS foam is light—without secure bracing, you’re leaving too much to chance.
Wall Parging for ICF Construction: What It Is, Why It’s Needed, and How to Do It Right
If you’re working with Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs), one question always comes up: how do you finish that exposed foam between the ground and your siding? The answer is wall parging—a critical step that not only protects your build but also enhances its curb appeal.
BuildBlock ICF Above Ground Safe Rooms
Tornado season is upon us, and once again, we in the Midwest and Southeast will see thunderstorms forming and rolling
Cold Weather Concrete Construction
Learn from BuildBlock Technical Director, Justin Wallace, about how to build with ICFs in cold weather!
BuildBlock ICC-500 Tornado Impact Testing
Although we couldn’t persuade Intertek engineers to test our wall system with a real missile, we came close with our successful ICC-500 Tornado Impact Testing.
This “Missile Impact Test” involved firing 15 lb. 2x4s from a high-pressure air cannon at over 100 mph! The goal was to assess how well the wall assembly withstands severe tornadoes and strong winds, ensuring occupant safety.
Net Zero Construction with BuildBlock Insulating Concrete Forms
BuildBlock Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) provide solutions for building net zero structures by providing themal mass and a tight building envelope.