Common Tools
In this lesson, we cover many of the basic tools that may be necessary during your ICF build.
First, some basic tools should be on hand at any job site. Items such as a hammer, drill, and tape measure will come in handy throughout the process. To keep your project level and your openings square, you’ll want to have a standard level or laser level as well as a framing square. Chalk lines are usually placed on the footing marking the outside edge of the block, so keep a Mason’s Line or Chalk Line on hand as well.
Throughout the building process, blocks will need to be cut to the correct size for your project to create a running bond eliminating vertical seams if possible. Cutting block is also required to create openings for windows and doors. The Expanded Polystyrene Foam that makes up BuildBlock ICFs is very easy to cut and the blocks are designed with a 1-inch repeating interlock pattern that produces very little waste. Cut lines and measurements are molded onto the block itself and these cuts can be made with a folded pruning saw, short shark saw, keyhole saw, skill saw, or even a table saw. To produce even cleaner cuts with less waste, a Hot Knife can be used.
You can also use these cutting tools to produce openings for penetrations such as sleeves for plumbing and mechanical systems and after the wall is poured, creating electrical and plumbing chases.
