Is the Fox Blocks form recyclable?
Yes, every component of the Fox Blocks form itself plus the concrete and reinforcement bars are recyclable.
Is there a top and bottom on the blocks when installing the Fox Blocks forms?
Fox Blocks forms have a reversible interlock system on all blocks. The robust interlock allows the blocks to fit together very tightly, eliminating any requirement for adhesives. A reversible interlock speeds up the installation.
Can I leave Fox Blocks forms exposed to ultraviolet rays for an extended period (months)?
Yes, but you will notice a light dusting on the surface and a yellowing discoloration of the forms. This does not indicate any detrimental effects to the ICFs. We do suggest, that if the exterior finish is not going to be installed within around a 3 month period or more, the forms be protected from UV rays by installing a temporary building wrap type material. The powdery film must be removed with soap and water before the application of a synthetic stucco finish or waterproofing membrane.
Does the Fox Blocks contain recycled materials?
The plastic webs in Fox Blocks forms are 100% recycled postindustrial polypropylene. The EPS insulation is virgin material. Recycled content for an ICF block is measured by weight. The recycled content by weight of a standard 6″ Fox Blocks form — 48%.
Can masonry be installed on the exterior walls?
Yes, Fox Blocks has a brick ledge form and the xLerator ledge reinforcement that is designed to support masonry. Fox blocks also has a tieKey accessory which is a specifically made as a masonry tie, to be inserted through the form into the concrete.
Is a high performance ICF home less expensive to build than a wood framed high performance home?
Yes, marginally higher on the initial capital costs, but, it is a recorded fact that Fox Blocks high performance homes out perform in comfort and operating costs over a wood framed home. These creates monthly cost savings for the life cycle of the Fox Blocks home.
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.
Can you build and pour concrete in cold weather?
Yes. The forms insulate the concrete and enhance the curing process. The top of the forms, or exposed concrete areas will need to be covered, temporarily, with insulation to prevent the exposed concrete from freezing. Fox Blocks projects can be constructed any time of the year, no delays for cold weather.
What is the R-Value?
The clear R‑Value of an Fox Blocks is R22, however current Energy codes recognize the lack of thermal bridging in an ICF and the contribution of the mass concrete on the influence of the thermal performance. Whole wall calculations indicate a Fox blocks wall assembly provides an R24 rating.
The continuous double layer (inside and outside) of insulation, the elimination of thermal bridging and minimal air infiltration through the mass concrete wall assembly, allows Fox Blocks walls to performance in the high performance wall assembly category. Completing the envelope with energy efficient windows and doors and roof insulation, Fox Blocks homes can easily meet and exceed energy code requirements and exceed the minimum requirements for Energy Star and EnerGuide. A Fox Blocks structure requires 44% less energy to heat and 32% less energy to cool.
What is the difference between Fox Blocks ICFs and the competitors, and why are Fox Blocks ICFs better? Why should I use Fox Blocks ICFs?
Most ICF blocks share common features and benefits. Fox Blocks, as a company, provides 30 years’ experience in product development, documentation, testing and training, as well as versatility in the line of products to meet all applications. The key difference comes in the expertise and support you get from Fox Blocks. Fox Blocks is the leader in insulating concrete form construction – proven in over 100,000 commercial and residential projects across North America. Extensive resources and support systems are available to ensure your project’s success from start to finish. Please visit our website www.Fox Blocks.com to review our project gallery and find more detailed documentation on the products and the applications. Fox Blocks also provides a toll free number for Customer and Technical Support 877−369−2562.