Common Tools... Continued
Rebar Cutter and Bender
Horizontal reinforcing rebar is installed as the forms are being placed. To prepare the rebar for installation you’ll need both a rebar cutter and bender. As you place the rebar you will also want a rebar tie tool to connect vertical and horizontal bars together if required. Tying vertical steel is usually recommended on the top course.
ICF Bracing
Before the concrete is poured, the ICF walls will need to be aligned and braced. This can be done with a variety of tools such as the BuildBrace Bracing & Alignment System which is popular for contractors. The BuildBrace stongback is designed specifically to align with the patented BuildBlock Hard Attachment Points, on the form, for the strongest connection.
Pencil Vibrator
As concrete is poured into the walls, it must be consolidated using a Concrete Pencil Vibrator. All concrete is required to be consolidated by internal vibration. Vibration causes the concrete to become fluid again so that the concrete can settle completely, removing any trapped air. This ultimately creates a structurally sound wall.
After any pour you’ll also want a Concrete Trowel to evenly spread wet concrete and create smooth surfaces. It’s also advisable to have a foam gun with foam and cleaner to fill any cracks or unwanted void space.
