Technical, White Papers & Research

The BuildBlock Comprehensive Guide Waterproofing

The BuildBlock Comprehensive Guide to ICF Waterproofing demonstrates the most effective strategies for waterproofing ICF structures.

Waterproofing ICF Homes Waterproofing ICF homes is substantially different from standard concrete construction and is commonly overlooked or installed incorrectly. The BuildBlock Comprehensive Guide to Waterproofing is a 15 page educational manual that is free to download and is intended to be used in conjunction with other BuildBlock Technical Manuals. The strategies, advice, and information apply to any ICF construction below grade, large or small.

Waterproofing is the last mile in ICF construction. Even if everything else has been done perfectly, a small mistake in waterproofing can ruin the experience of an ICF home. In this guide we combined more than 30 years of practical ICF experience and best practices from around the world to deliver the best strategy for waterproofing your basement.

-Mike Garrett, Founder/CEO
BuildBlock ICFs

While it is important to place a barrier between the elements and the interior of the home, the nature of that barrier is much more important when working with ICFs. In this guide you will learn about the nature of and why the type of waterproofing materials are important. Discover how to easily install different types of waterproofing and ensure your home is safe, comfortable, and dry.

Waterproofing ICF Homes Strategies Included in this guide:

  • An overview of moisture control and its importance for ICFs.
  • The elements that affect moisture in the soil.
  • Information on footing drainage systems.
  • Options for both Below and Above Grade moisture control.
  • Waterproofing for concrete roof and decking systems.
  • Recommended products & manufacturers. 

About BuildBlock

BuildBlock® Building Systems is the manufacturer of BuildBlock Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) the most environmentally-friendly, energy-efficient and disaster resistant method of residential and commercial construction. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, BuildBlock serves North America through 14 manufacturing facilities including locations in Mexico and Canada.

About ICFs

Insulating concrete forms (ICFs) are hollow foam blocks which are stacked into the shape of the exterior walls of a building, reinforced with steel rebar, and then filled with concrete. Insulated concrete forms combine one of the finest insulating materials, Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), with one of the strongest structural building materials, steel reinforced concrete. The result is a wall system of unmatched comfort, energy efficiency, strength, and noise reduction.

More information about BuildBlock® Insulating Concrete Forms can be found online at buildblock.com or by calling 866-222-2575.