for exterior walls and foundations...
innovative concrete form system re places traditional wooden forms. Far superior insulation, soundproofing and environmental characteristics. For use from footing to eave.

The ICEBLOCK building system, manufactured in Atlantic Canada by TRUEFOAM, combines the insulating effectiveness of expanded polystyrene (EPS) with the structural integrity of steel-reinforced concrete.

The heart of the system is a factory moulded block composed of an inner and outer formed layer of closed cell EPS joined together with sheet steel crossmembers.

The blocks serve as concrete formwork which remain in place afterwards to provide full insulation coverage on both faces of the concrete wall. Any common finishing material can be attached to the interior and exterior EPS surfaces, fastening into flanges on the steel crossmembers concealed within each ICEBLOCK.

The design of the ICEBLOCK system permits a reduction in the amount of concrete needed to meet building codes. If its permanent EPS shell were stripped away, the core of the wall would resemble a solid concrete waffle with posts on 12" centres and horizontal beams on 16" centres. A network of steel reinforcing bar is contained within the posts and beams. A fringe benefit of insulated forming systems is that the concrete curing process can take place in near-ideal conditions. This helps to achieve maximum material integrity.

The need for wood in exterior walls is eliminated, except for window and door bucks. The EPS insulation is completely non-toxic, and contains no ozone-depleting CFC's or HCFC's. The environmental appeal of ICEBLOCK is enhanced by substantially reduced consumption of energy for heating. The ICEBLOCK system can allow for important savings in the size and cost of heating and cooling systems, and lower monthly bills.

ICEBLOCK is appropriate for use above and below grade. The first course of ICEBLOCK can be keyed directly into the footings for maximum structural integrity and insulation effect. The system is intended for residential, commercial and industrial structures, as well as civil applications like retaining walls and roadway sound barriers.

Homes built using the ICEBLOCK system are very quiet and have a truly substantial feel. Like comfortable castles, they are built to last.

ICEBLOCK is part of an integrated system of TRUEFOAM insulation products designed for cost effectiveness, durability and versatility. TRUEFOAM insulation products can substantially reduce heating costs while protecting the integrity and long-term comfort of your home.

Figure 1.