BuildBlock Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF Blocks)

BuildBlock Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) wall assembly with drywall and siding attachment points

The Industry Standard for Energy-Efficient Concrete Homes

BuildBlock manufactures the industry standard Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF blocks), designed to save you time and money on the job site. BuildBlock ICFs are designed to save you time and money on the job site. Our fully reversible blocks and patented interlock system eliminate waste and speed up construction, delivering a disaster-resilient, energy-efficient structure every time.

Are you an architect? Download CAD Details.

What are Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)?

Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are hollow EPS foam blocks that stack like Legos to create the exterior walls of a building. Once stacked, they are reinforced with steel rebar and filled with concrete.

The result is a wall system that provides superior insulation (R-22+), airtightness, and strength compared to traditional wood framing. BuildBlock ICFs act as the formwork for the concrete, the insulation for the wall, and the attachment point for finishes—all in one step.

ICFs use dense EPS foam insulation around a solid structural concrete wall. This dense insulation, combined with concrete’s reluctance to change temperature means the interior of your home or building is stable not wasting energy combating the extremes outside.

ICF walls are stable and resist the rapidly changing environment outside. They’re air tight preventing drafts and protect you from heat and cold, noise, pollution, and mother nature herself.

This keeps what’s outside where it belongs, leaving you comfortable, quiet and secure no matter the threat.

In every-day life noisy neighbors, busy streets, trains, planes, and other annoyances stop at the walls leaving you in peace.

ICFs have an STC rating of 54 which means shouting and other disturbances outside the walls cannot be heard.

The core of ICF walls is reinforced concrete. This provides extremely strong walls to support almost any concept or design and will withstand more than 200mph winds, impacts from debris, and other challenges life may throw at your home.

BuildBlock ICF walls are strong and solid. They will withstand more than 200mph winds by default and can be made even stronger.

Strong reinforced concrete delivers safety in high-seismic zones, in coastal areas, performs well in flood prone areas, provides a 4-hour fire rating, and creates a home that is resilient most anything mother nature can think of.

ICF walls are solid structural air-tight reinforced concrete. They are all poured at once and as one solid piece and resist all the challenges Mother Nature has to offer.

Combined with the EPS foam insulation and the embedded insulated plastic studs this structure will stay strong and secure for more than a lifetime.

ICFs are a green product. Not only on the energy-efficiency and disaster resilience, but in manufacturing too.

EPS bead is expanded using steam in special molds to create the different shapes and sizes of ICF blocks.

When installed, filled with concrete and finished inside and out the EPS foam will not degrade or decay. It doesn’t compact or lose its insulation value and will keep insulating for hundreds of years.

BuildBlock ICFs especially are designed with a 1″ repeating interlock pattern, so during the ICF construction, the least waste possible is created. It also makes it easier to recycle any scrap.

Any portion of BuildBlock ICFs with at least 1 web, can be filled in to a part of another wall, further reducing waste.

Dust, dirt, pollen, etc. all filter in through conventionally built homes; it’s just their nature.

ICF walls are air tight keeping dust, dirt, allergens, and more outside where they belong.

ICF homes don’t suffer from drafts and cold spots. that keeps heating & cooling inside where you want it.

Just one more way to keep you and your utility bills comfortable.

The BuildBlock Advantage: Designed for Speed and Low Waste

Not all ICF blocks are created equal. We designed BuildBlock with the installer in mind to solve the common headaches of other systems.

100% Fully Reversible
BuildBlock forms are completely reversible. There is no “top” or “bottom,” “left” or “right.” Pick up a block and stack it. This eliminates installation errors and dramatically reduces waste to as little as 1-2%.

Patented Interlock Connections
Our blocks feature a 1-inch repeating interlock pattern that is self-draining and locks tightly. This eliminates the need for costly clips, zip ties, or glue to hold the wall together during the pour.

6-Inch Web Spacing (The Strongest Block)
We place our high-density plastic webs every 6 inches (standard is 8 inches). This delivers industry-leading strength to prevent blowouts and provides two extra attachment points per block for siding or drywall.

Molded-in Tape Measure
Every block features numbered vertical cut lines and horizontal cut lines every 2 inches. You rarely need a tape measure, making cuts fast and accurate.

BuildBlock ICF Block Specifications

Specification
Value
Standard Block Size
16" High x 48" Long
Core Widths Available
4", 6", 8", 10", 12"
Insulation Value
R-22 (Continuous Insulation)
Performance R-Value
Equivalent to R-50+ Mass Wall
Web Spacing
6" on Center (High-Density Plastic)
Fire Rating
4-Hour Fire Resistance Rating
Wind Resistance
Withstands winds up to 200+ MPH

A Complete ICF Wall System

BuildBlock offers a comprehensive system to handle every part of your build, from floors to specialized corners.

  • BuildLock KnockDown: For projects requiring large cores or easy shipping.
  • BuildRadius: The only pre-cut radius forms for curved walls and ICF Pools.
  • BuildDeck: Lightweight ICF decking for concrete floors and roofs.
  • Accessories: From bucking to bracing, we have the tools you need.

Frequently Asked Questions about ICFs

Q: Do BuildBlock ICFs cost more than wood?
A: While the upfront cost can be 3-7% higher than stick framing, the reduction in labor time and the lifelong energy savings (up to 50% on utility bills) often make ICFs cheaper from day one of ownership.

Q: How strong is an ICF wall?
A: BuildBlock walls are reinforced concrete. They can withstand tornadoes, hurricanes (200+ mph winds), and projectile debris that would destroy a wood-frame house.

Q: Can I build a basement with ICFs?
A: Yes. ICFs are the superior choice for basements, providing a dry, warm, and ready-to-finish space without the risk of rot or mold common in traditional basements.

ICF Block Designed for Contractors to Build Quickly

BuildBlock ICF Block Features

BuildBlock ICFs all have unique features such as the built-in tape measure, horizontal and vertical cut lines and more to save you time, money, and hassle on the job site.

  • Ready to Stack. No on-site assembly required; start installing right off the truck.
  • Fully Reversible. All forms are fully reversible; no top, bottom, left or right. Longer corner design provides an automatic offset for each course.
  • Industry Standard Size. Industry-standard 16-inch (406.4mm) high forms produce less waste when cutting around doors and windows.
  • Tight Interlocking Blocks. Blocks easily stack and securely lock into place resulting in greater strength over the competition. No foam or clips required between courses.
  • 2.5-inch (63.5mm) Foam Panels. Allows easy accommodation of electrical and plumbing installation in the foam.
  • High-density Plastic Webs on 6-inch centers. Greater strength, more value.
  • Rebar Support eliminates most steel tying.
  • Easy mechanical chases for plumbing and electrical.
  • Open Web Design for efficient concrete flow and half-height block support.
  • Extra Heavy-duty Attachment Points (495lbs.) Located every 8-inches vertically, and 6-inches horizontally.
  • Molded-in Tape Measure and Horizontal Cut Lines.
  • 1-inch Repeating Cut Pattern on Block Connection.
  • Lowest waste of any ICF on the market today.
  • Attachment Point Markings
  • No special half-height blocks required.


BuildBlock Insulating Concrete Forms are the strongest and most energy-efficient building material available today. ICFs are used to build homes, schools, churches, and other commercial buildings. Choosing ICFs for your next construction project means saving money every month and feeling secure in your home.

Product Specifications

Straight Block Forms

bb600 straight block of icf top view at 45 degrees
Core Width
Width
Length Ext-Int
Return Ext-Int
Area
Concrete Volume
4 in / 101.6 mm
9 in / 228.6 mm
48 in / 1219.2 mm
N/A
5.33 ft2 / .4951 m2
.065844 yd3 / .050341 m3
6 in / 152.4 mm
11 in / 279.4 mm
48 in / 1219.2 mm
N/A
5.33 ft2 / .4951 m2
.098765 yd3 / .075511 m3
8 in / 203.2 mm
13 in / 330.2 mm
48 in / 1219.2 mm
N/A
5.33 ft2 / .4951 m2
.131687 yd3 / .100682 m3

*10″ & 12″ and larger core sizes are available using the BuildLock Knockdown block product for thicker walls and special needs such as pilasters. All BuildBlock products use the same interlock pattern and will integrate together.

Core Width
Width
Length Ext-Int
Return Ext-Int
Area
Concrete Volume
4 In / 101.6 mm
9 In / 228.6 mm
31 in - 22 in / 787.4 mm – 558.8 mm
19 in – 10 in / 482.6 mm– 254 mm
5.56 ft2 / .5165 m2
.054574 yd3 / .041725 m3
6 in / 152.4 mm
11 in / 279.4 mm
33 in – 22 in / 787.4 mm – 558.8 mm
21 in – 10 in / 533.4 mm – 254 mm
6.00 ft2 / .5574 m2
.086528 yd3 / .066155 m3
8 in / 203.2 mm
13 in / 330.2 mm
35 in – 22 in / 787.4 mm – 558.8 mm
23 in – 10 in / 584.2 mm – 254 mm
6.44 ft2 / .5983 m2
.121517 yd3 / .092906 m3

*10″ & 12″ and larger core sizes are available using the BuildLock Knockdown block product for thicker walls and special needs such as pilasters. All BuildBlock products use the same interlock pattern and will integrate together.

90° Corner Block Forms

corner icf block top view at angle

45° Corner Block Forms

builblock bb645 corner form
Core Width
Width
Length Ext-Int
Return Ext-Int
Area
Concrete Volume
4 in / 101.6 mm
9 in / 228.6 mm
28 in – 24.272 in / 711.2 mm – 558.8 mm
16 in – 12.272 in / 406.4 mm – 311.7 mm
4.89 ft2 / .4542 m2
.054985 yd3 / .042039 m3
6 in / 152.4 mm
11 in / 279.4 mm
28 in – 23.444 in / 71.12 mm – 59.55 mm
16 in – 11.444 in / 406.4 mm – 290.7 mm
4.89 ft2 / .4542 m2
.080841 yd3 / .061807 m3
8 in / 203.2 mm
8 in / 203.2 mm
28 in – 22.615 in / 711.2 mm – 574.4 mm
16 in – 10.615 in / 406.4 mm – 269.6 mm
4.89 ft2 / .4542 m2
.105425 yd3 / .08060 m3

*All BuildBlock products use the same interlock pattern and will integrate together.

Core Width
Width
Length Ext-Int
Return Ext-Int
Area
Concrete Volume
6 in / 152.4 mm
N/A
48 in / 1219.2 mm
N/A
4 ft2 / .3716 m2
.134140 yd3 / .102557 m3
8 in / 203.2 mm
N/A
48 in / 1219.2 mm
N/A
4 ft2 / .3716 m2
.167074 yd3 / .127737 m3

*All BuildBlock products use the same interlock pattern and will integrate together.

BrickLedge Block Forms

brickledge bb6bl form

Double Taper Top Forms

buildblock double taper top form
Core Width
Width
Length Ext-Int
Return Ext-Int
Area
Concrete Volume
6 in / 152.4 mm
N/A
48 in / 1219.2 mm
N/A
5.33 ft2 / .4951 m2
.130128 yd3 / .099489 m3
8 in / 203.2 mm
N/A
48 in / 1219.2 mm
N/A
5.33 ft2 / .4951 m2
.163050 yd3 / .124660 m3

*All BuildBlock products use the same interlock pattern and will integrate together.

BuildBlock ICF Resources

pdf
57 MB
Installation Manuals
BuildBlock ICF Swimming Pool Construction Manual
pdf
468 KB
Installation Manuals
BuildBlock Pocket Install Guide
pdf
8 MB
Installation Manuals
BuildBlock Technical & Installation Manual
pdf
971 KB
Brochures, Product Information, Publications
BuildBlock Technical Brochure
pdf
6 MB
Engineering Manuals, Engineering Tables, Installation Manuals
BuildDeck Design, Engineering, and Installation Manual
pdf
2 MB
Installation Manuals
BuildShield Termite and Firestop Manual
6 documents

Let Us Help

Contact BuildBlock today and let our staff answer your questions and help make your project a success.