MATERIALS AND TOOLS - Interblock Insulated Concrete FormsInterBlock Insulated Concrete Forms are manufactured from expanded polystyrene (EPS) as a fully molded and solid piece. The

MATERIALS AND TOOLS

Cordless Drill

Wood Screws

Key Hole Saw

Chalk Line

String Line

Rebar Bender/Cutter

Scaffolding

Scaffold Planks

Step Ladders

Tape Measure

6’ Level

Level Transit or Laser

Snap Ties and Hair Pins

Hammer

Rubber Mallet

Router or Hotwire knife

Hotwire Cutting Table or Hand Saw

Tin Snips

Low Expansion Foam Adhesive

Foam Adhesive Gun

5/8” Wood Drill Bit

1/2” x 10” drill bit

6” Hole Saw

Window and Door Buck Material (2x10 and 2x4 lumber)

Bracing Material (2x4 lumber)

Consolidation Tools

Turn-buckle

Construction Guidelines

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-Standard Form

-Corner Form

-Closed End Form

-Pilaster Form

SYSTEM COMPONENTS

FORMS

InterBlock Insulated Concrete Forms are manufacturedfrom expanded polystyrene (EPS) as a fully molded andsolid piece. The forms are built in two cell sizes.The 6 inch cell, which is the most common size, is9-5/8" W x 48"L x 12"H, with five vertical cells.The 8 inch cell is 12”W x 48”L x 12”H, with fourvertical cells.

The InterBlock form comes in four basic shapes.

-Standard Form

-Corner Form

-Closed End Form

-Pilaster Form

Each form is reversible, with no defined left, right, topor bottom, and will interlock regardless of direction.The interlocking tabs ensure that the vertical cells willalign whether running in a straight line or at 90 angles.Each InterBlock form has lines between cells toindicate cutting locations.

PLASTIC SCREW CHANNEL

The plastic channel is inserted into the top and bottomof adjacent rows of blocks and creates a continuoushorizontal point for fastening finish material. Thehorizontal placement allows easy location of thechannel, reducing cutting and waste of blocks andfinish material.

STEEL SCREW CHANNEL

The steel screw channel is used similarly to the plasticscrew channel, yet it is designed for fastening finishmaterial to the external wall or to hang heavy objectson the walls. The steel screw channel provides greaterstrength by means of tabs that are anchored in theconcrete. This is more commonly used for industrialapplications, but it is also used for residential projects.

REINFORCEMENT

Refer to local building codes and use the informationin the Reinforcing Tables for the proper amount andplacement of reinforcing rods. Placement ofreinforcement should be reviewed by an engineer whois familiar with the project. Rebar must be placedwithin ACI tolerances. Rebar should be placed usingInterBlock Rebar Chairs and/or No-Tie Rebar Chairs.These rebar chairs are designed to eliminate tying,ensuring better placement of the steel and givingmaximum structural integrity to the InterBlock wall.


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STANDARD REBAR CHAIR

The standard rebar chair is a galvanized wire that isplaced across the block, to support and suspend thehorizontal reinforcing rod. The standard chair isplaced in depressions between cells, every 4 to 5 feetalong a wall section where reinforcing rod is required.

NO-TIE REBAR CHAIR

The no-tie rebar chair is a galvanized wire that isplaced across the block, to support and locate thevertical reinforcing rod. The no-tie chair is placedbetween the interlocking tabs, with the loop overthe middle of the vertical cell. The no-tie chair shouldbe placed in two courses (typically the 3rd and 7th),in corresponding columns where reinforcing rod isrequired. The no-tie chairs can also support horizontalreinforcing rods if placed in appropriate rows.

CONCRETE

All applications require a minimum 3,000 psi mixconcrete. Concrete should be poured at a 5" to 6"slump, with a maximum aggregate size of 3/4"; peagravel is ideal. Placement of the concrete is mosteasily accomplished using a pump truck equippedwith a double elbow. However, it can also be placedby conveyer, bucket, concrete pump or chute.

BASIC INSTALLATION

The following techniques are helpful when buildingwith the InterBlock system and should be used asconstruction recommendations, not design specifications.Personal experience and/or field conditions may result invariances of these techniques. However, building codesand standard construction practices must always befollowed. It is recommended that a licensed architect orengineer provide design plans and specifications forapproval by the proper authorities local to the project.

DESIGN CONSIDERATION

The InterBlock building system is manufactured with a9-5/8" cell size. The InterBlock Conversion Chart shouldbe used to design and build with InterBlock. If yourbuilding is already designed and cannot be convertedto InterBlock cell sizes, it is still possible to build anylength wall, but it will require some cutting of theforms between cells.

FOOTINGS

Footings must be designed and constructed inaccordance with local building code.

1. Footings should be level within +/- 1/4”. If the foot-ings are not level, the InterBlock forms can be cut orshimmed to level the first course.

2. The footings may be keyed or rebar may be cast inplace per local code.

3. All rebar dowels must be capped for a safe jobsite.


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WALL LAYOUT

An accurate wall layout is very important for a qualityfinished job.

1. Confirm that the layout is in compliance with designplan dimensions and check for square.

2. Mark the layout with a string or chalk line accordingto plan.

3. Along the outside of the layout lines in every corner,a wood shoe is secured into the footing using scrap2x4 lumber. The wood shoe may also be placedalong the length of the wall, but is only required inthe corners.

An alternative method is to use a light gauge 1" x 2"U-Channel, nailed to the footing on your building line.The U-Channel does not need to be removed and theform will fit inside the channel, holding the form inplace along the building line.

WALL CONSTRUCTION

FIRST COURSE - Layout a complete first course of formsbeginning at each corner and working toward the centerof the walls.

1. Begin with a full corner block running in one directionand then a full standard block placed along the per-pendicular wall of the same corner. Repeat thisprocess in every corner of the structure, with all cor-ner blocks turning in the same direction if possible.

2. Place whole standard blocks working from the cornersto the center of each wall section.

3. The forms should fit loosely where they meet in thecenter of the wall. Forms can be cut as needed witha hand saw or hot wire table. The length of the cutblock can be written on the block itself to eliminaterepeated measuring at each row. If your building wasnot designed for the 9-5/8” cell size, then refer tostep 4 below for further details.


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4. Where dimensions require cutting less than a full cell,it will be necessary to remove the interlocking teethon both courses, top and bottom, where the verticalcells do not align. Two sections of InterBlock plasticscrew channel should be inserted between the twocourses, stabilizing and aligning this section of thewall. As stated in Step 3 above, you must staggerjoints throughout the courses of every wall sectionfor strength and stability.

5. Place plastic screw strip in the first course as neededto satisfy local code requirements.

6. Place necessary rebar in the first course as specifiedand according to local code.

7. Do not cut the connecting webs under anycircumstances.

SECOND COURSE - A strong bond and straight wallsare built by overlapping two or three cells betweenadjacent courses, staggering your joints.

1. To begin this overlapping pattern you must start thesecond course by cutting a full corner form betweenthe third and fourth cells, counting away from thecorner. This will create what is referred to as a 3-2,meaning you now have one piece with 3 cells andone piece with 2 cells.

2. Place the 3-cell corner in the opposite directionof the first row corner.

3. Place the 2-cell section remaining along theperpendicular wall working off the same corner.

4. Start each corner on the second course in this wayand proceed to the center of the wall as with thefirst course. Make sure to always stagger yourjoints with a two or three cell overlap.


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5. Place plastic screw strip in the second course asneeded to satisfy local code requirements.

6. Place necessary rebar in the second course asspecified and according to local code.

7. Check that the walls are level and straight. If needed,make adjustments by cutting or shimming under thefirst course of block.

ADDITIONAL COURSES

The remainder of the wall is erected by continuing theoverlap patterns established in the layout courses.What was done on the first course is repeated on everysubsequent odd numbered course. What was done on thesecond course is repeated on every subsequent evennumbered course.

Bracing should be installed after the fourth or fifth course,depending on wind or other site specific conditions.

Confirm building dimensions and square periodically(every 2 to 4 rows) as the walls are built.

Place plastic screw strip in each course as needed to sat-isfy local code requirements.

Place necessary rebar in each course as specified andaccording to local code.

Glue the top course to the blocks below using foamadhesive.

If more stories/courses will be installed later, the InterBlocktabs must be protected before concrete placement. If thisis the last story/course, the InterBlock tabs must be brokenoff before concrete placement.

Check corners for plumb. Confirm straight wall by placinga string line along the top of each wall.

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SPECIALTY INSTALLATION

ANGLE WALLS

1. Angled walls and corners that are not 90° can beaccomplished by making the desired cuts using ahand saw or hot wire table. The flexibility of theInterBlock design allows any angle to be designedand constructed using a Standard InterBlock form.

2. The outside edge of any angled wall joint requires a15” section of the InterBlock plastic screw strip beplaced in the outside slot, connecting the joint. Anygaps in the joint must be filled with expandable foamprior to placement of concrete.

3. Due to the nature of this type of corner, you will notbe able to stagger your joint with every other row ofblocks as with a standard corner. Any non-standardcorner or angled wall will require additional bracingat the joints to stabilize the wall during the placementof concrete. A vertical support with a kicker on bothsides of the non-standard corner must be used toproperly stabilize the corner.

RADIUS WALLS

Radius walls are assembled similarly to an angled wall,but will require extra attention to the planning andlayout of the wall. The minimum radius of 20’ isallowable using standard forms. Please contact anInterBlock representative for specific instructionsfor building and assembling radius walls


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T – WALLS

1. T-Walls are simply accomplished using the InterBlockSystem. Each row of block requires the intersection tobe staggered and built similar to a standard corner.

2. A modified corner block must be placed at the loca-tion of the intersecting wall. This requires a standardcorner to have manual cut-outs on the opposing sideof the manufactured corner, so there are openings onboth sides of the corner. Work away from this cornerin both directions as if it were a normal corner.

3. The next course of block will “tie” the t-wall to thethrough wall with a standard block placed over themodified corner block. The center cell, where thet-wall will intersect, must have openings manually cutto mirror the shape at the end of a standard block.

4. A 2-cell standard block is then placed on the t-wall,butting against the cell where the cuts were made.

5. As with a standard corner, each row must alternateand the joints must be staggered.

GABLE WALLS

1. Build wall section to peak height of gable with norebar or plastic screw channel.

2. Snap a chalk line on the face of the wall for thedesired gable pitch.

3. Disassemble this wall section and cut the forms alongthe chalk lines.

4. Reassemble the cut block with required rebar andplastic screw channel as needed.

5. Wood or foam sheeting may be secured over thelower ends of the gable walls when placing concrete.Concrete placement should be performed cautiouslyin gable walls.

REINFORCEMENT

BASICS

Reinforcing steel helps to minimize and control crackingand buckling of concrete.

Reinforcing steel must be a minimum of Grade 40.

Reinforcing steel must have a minimum of 3/4”concrete cover.

The proper length of overlap in an overlap splicemust be 40d (40 X diameter of the bar).

Using the InterBlock rebar chairs simplifies the processand adds to the structural stability of the wall bycontrolling the rebar placement.

The Reinforcing Tables can be used as a generalreference, but always place rebar as specified andaccording to local code. Consult with your buildinginspector prior to starting any job to obtain anycode required inspections.

HORIZONTAL REINFORCEMENT

Use the InterBlock standard rebar chairs on eachcourse requiring horizontal rebar. Place them intothe top of the forms every 4 to 5 feet in the depressions provided between cells.

Place horizontal rebar, as required, as each courseis installed.

Leave adequate space from windows and doors toallow for wall adjustments.

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VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT

Use the InterBlock no-tie rebar chairs on two courses ofeach wall section (typically 3rd and 7th). Place the no-tiechairs, as required, in between the locking tabs so thering is over the middle of the vertical cell.

The no-tie chairs can replace the need for standardchairs when placed at a course where horizontal rebaris required.

Place vertical rebar below, above, and adjacent toevery opening (windows and doors).

The vertical rebar should be placed as specified andaccording to local code.

Vertical rebar should be extended to provide adequateoverlap between cold joints.

If allowed by code the vertical rebar can be placed ineach cell, as required, after the concrete has beenpoured and is still wet. Make sure the rod is placed inthe center of the cell and that it drops to the bottomof the wall section.

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BRACING

Bracing should be installed after the fourth or fifth courseis built (depending on wind and other conditions), placingthem every 10 to 12 feet along each wall section.

Bracing supports the wall during the building process andkeeps it plumb and straight during concrete placement.

Standard 2x4 studs can be attached to either side of thewaIl and secured with snap ties near the bottom and topof the wall.

1. Using studs at least equal in length to the height ofthe planned wall, drill a 5/8” hole through the 2”dimension at 2-1/2’ and at 7-1/2’ to accommodatethe snap ties.

2. Place the stud over the vertical lines between the cellson the face of the block. Make sure the 2-1/2’ and7 -1/2’ hole locations are not over a seam in the block.

3. Using the predrilled stud as a guide, drill straightthrough the wall at the webbing. Because you aredrilling through the webbing, the snap ties can bereused after concrete placement.

4. Assemble the bracing with a stud on either side of thewall, a snap tie through the studs and wall, and a cleaton either side to “sandwich” the assembly.

5. Attach a turnbuckle or kicker to the vertical brace whilesecuring it with a steel spike, wooden stake, or directlyto the decking.

Additional bracing should be attached to window anddoor buck openings using a turnbuckle.

This is the minimum recommended bracing, withadjustments or additions as conditions require. Itmus be adequate to safely support the wall underall conditions, especially in high winds.



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OPENINGS

A wooden frame (buck) will maintain the dimensionsof your openings during concrete placement and theyoffer a traditional attachment surface for your doorsand windows.

The inside dimension of your bucks should be built tothe rough opening (RO) dimensions required for eachof your windows and doors.

Vertical and horizontal bracing is required atapproximately 20” on center to help carry the forcesfrom the concrete.

On large openings, concrete should not be placedcompletely on one side of the opening before placingany on the other side. Rather, both sides should befilled uniformly, negating the force of the wet concrete.

WINDOW AND DOOR BUCKS

Construct a buck to box out your desired roughopening using 2x10’s for the top and sides and two2x4's for the bottom. The 2x4 bottom pieces are flushwith the 2x10, providing a center gap to inspectbelow the opening and fill with concrete if needed.

Treated lumber is normally only needed when bottomof opening is at or below ground level. Check withlocal code for requirements.

1. Cut the top 2x10 piece to length. The top piece willrest on the side pieces.

2. Cut two side 2x10 pieces so the length is equal tothe height of the RO.

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3. Cut two bottom 2x4 pieces to length. The bottompieces will be under the side pieces.

4. Assemble the buck and place it in the appropriatelocation as the wall is built. The opening for the buckshould leave 1/2” space on both sides for squaringand wall adjustment.

5. Secure the buck by attaching 1x4 flush to the buckon both sides of the wall, which will sandwich thebuck in place. It can be easier to install the 1x4 tothe exterior edge of the buck prior to setting it inplace.

6. Concrete screws or anchors must be run through thebuck prior to concrete placement, to secure thebuck to the concrete.

Two pieces of #4 rebar that are 4’ wider than theopening must be placed in the row of block aboveevery opening, allowing for 2’ overlap to each side.One of these pieces may be eliminated if that courseis scheduled to have rebar placed. Any lintel designshould be checked by an engineer.

A single piece of rebar must be placed in each columnof cells on either side of every opening.


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RADIUS OPENINGS

1. Build and install a standard window buck, RO sizedappropriately less the radius section.

2. Continue building the wall around and above thewindow buck. Do not place any plastic screwchannel or rebar in the radius location above thewindow buck.

3. Mark RO radius outline, adding for thickness ofbuck material, on both sides of the wall.

4. Cut through the wall along the radius outlinemarkings using a reciprocating saw. Make certainto keep this cut accurate and square.

5. Place a section of sheet metal, the width of the block,into the cut made through the wall. This will close offthe section between the sheet metal and the windowbuck.

6. After concrete has cured, remove the block within theradius opening and install buck material.

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Attaching floors, walls, or roofs to the InterBlock wallis quite simple but requires some advanced planning.There are many possibilities, and the following guide-lines outline just a few of the methods. Please contactan InterBlock representative for questions or assistance.

FLOORS

Floors can be attached using conventional methods ormethods that have been developed for the InterBlocksystems.

FOUNDATION WALLS ONLY - Joists may be supportedon top of the wall using a conventional sill plate. Sincethe forms are 9-5/8" thick, a 2x10 is the recommendedsize of the sill plate.

Pre-cut, pre-drill and install anchor bolts into sill plate,then placing it on top of the walls while the concreteis wet. When the concrete has properly set you cantighten the bolts and start framing. Since the concretewill shrink slightly, by tightening the bolts into theconcrete you will create a sill seal into the foam.

After the concrete has cured, the sill plates can besecured by hammer drilling holes for the appropriateanchors.


ATTACHING FLOORS,WALLS & ROOFS

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FOUNDATION WALLS WITH ABOVE GRADE WALLS -When continuing upward with the InterBlock forms foradditional stories, a rim joist is directly attached to theform.

1. Snap chalk lines to mark correct location of top andbottom of the rim joist.

2. Drill 6” holes in the block between the chalk lines andin the center of the vertical lines. The holes muststagger slightly up and down to stabilize the rim joist.The quantity and placement of anchor locationshould be by local code or specifications.

3. Screw in plastic anchor tunnels into the holes so theyare flush with the wall. When the concrete is pouredit flows against the outer face of the anchor tunnel,providing an anchor point and solid support for therim joist.

4. When the concrete is cured, pre-drill the rim joist tomatch anchor tunnel pattern.

5. Position the rim joist with 2x4 on either end ofsection and hammer drill into concrete, securingwith appropriate concrete anchors.

6. Fasten joist hangers to the rim joist per the hangermanufacturers’ instruction.



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WALLS

Walls of dissimilar construction are easily attachedto InterBlock walls by fastening the material into theconcrete structure of the InterBlock wall. The concreteis located behind the horizontal joints between coursesand between the vertical lines on each block.

ROOF CONNECTION

Roofs are attached in much the same way asconventional floors, using a standard sill plate.

1. A sill plate of 2x10 is preferred to be anchored, asrequired, on top of the finished InterBlock wall.

2. After sill plate is secured, trusses or conventionalframing of almost any kind can be attached asrequired by local code.

FINISHES

New methods or products should be tested in aninconspicuous area or on an extra form, to check forcolor, bond, or compatibility with the EPS foam. Somematerials are incompatible with the EPS foam, such aspetroleum based coatings. A partial list of compatiblefinishes is included with this manual on the CompatibleProducts page.

BELOW GRADE WATERPROOFING

The ENTIRE wall below grade must be waterproofed aswith a typical poured wall below grade, using a systemcompatible with EPS foam. The wall itself will NOT stopwater from entering the foundation.

The preferred method used with InterBlock is therubberized waterproofing membrane. Be sure tofollow the manufacturers' recommended methods forinstallation.

Waterproofing should be placed within several daysof planned backfilling, to prevent the rubberizedmembrane from sagging off of the wall due to sunlight.If the manufacturer will allow, a light coating of whitespray paint will help to deflect the sunlight and keepthe membrane cooler.

Two people working together, with one on top leaningover the wall and the other at the bottom is usually themost efficient. The sheets of waterproofing must belong enough cover the height of wall and to the edgeof the footing.

Any standard groundbreaker can be used as a transitionfrom below grade to the above grade finish material.


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HEAVY OBJECTS

When heavy objects (kitchen cabinets) or critical fasteningpoints (hand rails) are installed, it is recommended toinstall a solid backing behind the location. This providesextra strength and flexibility in your placement of theseobjects.

In the specified mounting location, the foam can be cutaway and lumber attached directly to the concrete withadequate anchors. Drywall can be installed over thelumber to provide a clean finish. The object (kitchencabinet) can then be installed on the drywall into thelumber behind.

Plywood that is equal to the thickness of the drywall canbe installed in place of the drywall at the desired locationdirectly to the concrete with adequate anchors. Make surethat the object (kitchen cabinet) is large enough to coverthe seam between the plywood and drywall. Attach theobject directly to the plywood.

PLASTIC SCREW CHANNEL INSTALLATION

Plastic screw strip is placed in the grooves on the top andbottom of the block. This strip is installed to provide afastening point for finish material such as drywall andprovide stability to the wall assembly.

· Always leave 1⁄4” gap between each section ofplastic screw strip.

· Always set back strip 1⁄2” from openings andintersections of walls.

· When strip is used on outside corner, cut through topand bottom groove on end of corner block using keyhole saw.

· Strip can be placed at every course as needed perlocal code for fastening requirements.



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DRYWALL

The interior can now be finished by gluing and screwingdrywall directly to the foam, using the InterBlock plasticscrew strip.

Most building codes require that "Foamed Plastic" becovered with a I5 minute thermal barrier in all spacesincluding attics and basements. Be sure to check withlocal codes with regard to this. A 15 minute thermalbarrier can be 1/2" drywall, or equivalent.

If you will use wood base molding or an equivalent,please see the “Molding” section below.

Apply a compatible adhesive to the back side of thedrywall. (optional)

Place drywall against the foam vertically and screw intothe plastic screw strips. Confirm the type and spacing offasteners with local code. Vertical installation of drywallwill eliminate most butt joints.

Because the drywall is installed over a solid wall, thejoints do not need to be placed at a fastening point.This will reduce drywall waste and minimize cutting.

MOLDING

Base molding can be fastened to the InterBlock system asfollows:

1. Make strips of 1/2” OSB or plywood at least 1/2”smaller in width than the base molding.

2. Glue and fasten directly to the foam wherever basemolding will be installed.

3. Stand the drywall on the rip and glue and screw it tothe foam above the rip.

4. Attach the molding to the rip, making sure to cover thejoint between the rip and the drywall.

A similar technique can be used to attach built-up crownmoldings.


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EXTERIOR FINISHES

Air barriers and vapor barriers are not normally required.Check with you local building code to confirm if barriersare needed.

The exterior walls must be protected from sunlight by anexterior finish installed according to the manufacturers’instruction. Above grade finishes range from brick,standard lap siding or assorted stucco finishes.

HORIZONTAL SIDING

Conventional horizontal siding must be installed by usingwood furring strips. Spacing and fastening frequency ofstrips and fasteners must be done according to localcode and the manufacturers’ instructions.

A screen should be run along the bottom of the furringstrips to keeps insects out, but allowing proper air flowbehind the siding.

Furring Strip Installation

1. After the concrete is placed and set, fasten using EPScompatible adhesive and standard concrete fasteningtools.

2. Install the furring strips prior to placement of concreteusing EPS compatible adhesive and screws.

Apply EPS compatible adhesive to strip and set in place as needed.

Galvanized screws that are 3-1/2” plus the thickness ofthe furring strips.

Screws must pass through into cell allowing encasement during concrete placement.

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VERTICAL SIDING

Because the steel screw channel is installed horizontally,you are able to install vertical siding directly into thesteel screw channel.

The steel screw channel can be placed as needed inincrements of 1 foot. Vertical siding must be installedaccording to the local code and manufacturers’instruction.

EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finish System)

EIFS is a perfect finish for the EPS constructedInterBlock. Follow the manufacturers’ recommendedapplication procedure.

BRICK VENEER

Please contact an InterBlock representative to discussthe options for creating a brick ledge and use of brickties. Follow the manufacturers’ recommendedapplication procedure.

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PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL

Most of the plumbing and electrical installation is doneafter concrete placement, except when services penetratethrough the wall.

Piping with a diameter greater than 3 inches should beinstalled prior to concrete placement. Use an appropriatesleeve (PVC works well) run through the wall and foamedin place.

Piping with a diameter of 3 inches or less can be installedthrough the form web after the concrete has been placed.With this, your placement is dictated by webbing location.For interior piping with a diameter greater than 2 inches,run them inside the form wall before placing concrete orrun it through interior walls.

After concrete placement, electrical and other plumbingis easily installed in the InterBlock walls with the use of arouter, electric chain saw, hotwire knife and somecommon hand tools.

1. Identify and mark all boxes and fixture locations.

2. Cut into the foam for box locations.

3. Cut channels into the foam for the wire, conduit orpiping. Channel width should be made so the wirefits snugly, holding it in place

4. The wires or pipes are then located in the channels andinserted into the boxes or fixtures.

5. Boxes are easily attached with fasteners or adhesive tothe concrete structure of the wall.

It is best to run wire or conduit horizontally through thecenter of the block, avoiding the plastic screw channels ifpossible.

Be sure to follow all local electrical and plumbing codeswhen carrying out this task.


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INTERBLOCK Block Required

Total number of blocks - Calculate the total square footageof the walls, excluding the openings and divide by 4.

90° corner blocks - count the number of corners andmultiply by the height (in feet).

Standard blocks - Subtract the 90° corner number fromthe total number of blocks required.

Because the blocks have no top or bottom and are in9-5/8" cells, the waste factor is approximately 2%. Incases where there are corners other than 90° or the walldimensions are not in 9-5/8" cells, the waste factor maybe somewhat higher.

Steel Requirements Below Grade

Each InterBlock block can use 4 feet of horizontal rebarand 5 feet of vertical rebar. Absolute quantities willdepend on engineering specification and local codes.Do not forget to add for overlaps - approximately 2%.

Concrete Required

Each block requires 1/20th of a yard of concrete, thereforeone yard will fill 20 blocks or 80 sq. ft. of wall surface.

Minimum Concrete Specifications:

• Minimum 3,000 PSI in 28 days, aggregate must be3/4" max, or pea gravel.

• The mix should be 5.5 Bag with reverse mix of thestone and sand proportions.

• Slump 5 to 6 inches.

ESTIMATING MATERIALREQUIREMENTS

FINAL CHECK & CONCRETE PLACEMENT


Prior to concrete placement the wall should be checkedfor plumb, level, and square, making any necessaryadjustments.

Concrete should be a minimum of 3000 psi at 28 days.The aggregate must be a maximum of 3/4”. Theconcrete should have a slump of 5” to 6”. Contact theready mix plant for correct mix design. A “reverse mix”where the proportions of aggregate and sand arereversed has proven to be successful.

Placing concrete with a pump truck equipped witha double elbow to control the falling concrete is therecommended method.

Concrete may also be placed with a conveyer, bucket,concrete pump or chute. An elephant trunk willsimplify the process and reduce potential spillage.

If you are going to continue upward with subsequentpours, be sure to cover the interlocking tabs on thetop sides of the form to keep the interlock free ofstray concrete.

Consolidation of concrete is essential to a strong wall.This can be done with internal vibration, externalvibrations, a block of wood and hammer or handrodding. Be careful not to over-consolidate, as thiscan cause damage to the wall.

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Successful Placement - When beginning the placement,use the same accepted pouring practices as forconventionally formed walls. The placement should becontrolled and carefully monitored. Aim concrete at theconnecting web on the top course of the wall to easethe flow of concrete into the cells.

1. Begin placing concrete at a corner and work the hoseout approximately 12 feet from the corner in bothdirections.

2. Continue this pouring motion until the corner cell isfilled to the top, prior to filling the rest of the wall.This solidifies the forms to the footing and allowsthe rest of the formwork to relax.

3. Pour the rest of the walls out from this corner, fillingeach cavity as you proceed along the wall.

4. Always fill the cavities below openings prior to fillingabove the opening. Always fill both sides of openingsevenly to balance the force of concrete.

5. Consolidate walls as needed.

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FINAL CHECK

When the wall is completely poured and the concreteis still wet, check the wall again for straightness, plumb,and level. There is limited time to adjust, if necessary.Adjustments should be done using extreme care.

Blow out - If forms are handled properly, blowoutsshould not occur. If there is a blowout in an InterBlockwall, the wall will stay intact but an opening will becreated that can easily be fixed.

1. Remove the piece of wall that has blown out.

2. Clean the concrete spill around the area andreplace the blown out piece.

3. Use two pieces of lumber secured through thewall with snap ties and wedges to keep the piecein place.

4. Re-pour the blown out area.

5. Remove the lumber after the concrete is set.

Concrete loss due to this type of blowout is minimal.You will not lose the entire wall and can continueyour pour without much delay.

NOTES ON BACKFILLING

Backfilling of basement walls and retaining wallsshould be done in accordance with A.C.I requirements.Wall performance is improved if backfilling is done afterthe first floor is in place.


PRE-PLACEMENT CHECKLIST

Date: Foreman: Job:

Check off all items below prior to placing concrete in the walls.

____ Is all bracing in place and secured?

____ Is scaffolding installed and secured?

____ String line along the top of all walls?

____ Walls checked for plumb and straight?

____ Are walls according to layout?

____ Top course glued in place?

____ Are all openings in place?

____ Are bucks secured to wall?

____ Are bucks cross braced?

____ Are anchors placed in bucks?

____ Is reinforcing in place as specified?

____ Are all service penetrations installed?

____ Are beam pockets installed?

____ Have anchor tunnels been installed?

____ Have the top row tabs been protected from concrete?

____ Has proper concrete been ordered?

____ Does concrete pump have reducer or truck have elephant trunk?

This list is provided to assist in the concrete placement process. This list does notoffer any guarantee.


InterBlock

InterBlock

INTERBLOCK CONVERSION CHART

# CELLS LENGTH LENGTH # CELLS LENGTH LENGTH

(feet – inches) (meters) (feet – inches) (meters)

1 0' – 9 5/8" .244 41 32' – 9 5/8" 9.997

2 1' – 7 1/4" .488 42 33' – 7 1/4" 10.241

3 2' – 4 7/8" .732 43 34' – 4 7/8" 10.485

4 3' – 2 1/2" .975 44 35' – 2 1/2" 10.729

5 4' – 0" 1.219 45 36' – 0" 10.973

6 4' – 9 5/8" 1 .463 46 36' – 9 5/8" 11.217

7 5' – 7 1/4" 1.707 47 37' – 7 1/4" 11.460

8 6' – 4 7/8" 1.951 48 38' – 4 7/8" 11.704

9 7' – 2 1/2" 2.195 49 39' – 2 1/2" 11.948

10 8' – 0" 2.438 50 40' – 0" 12.192

11 8' – 9 5/8" 2.682 51 40' – 9 5/8" 12.436

12 9' – 7 1/4" 2.926 52 41' – 7 1/4" 12.680

13 10' – 4 7/8" 3.170 53 42' – 4 7/8" 12.924

14 11' – 2 1/2" 3.414 54 43' – 2 1/2" 13.167

15 12' – 0" 3.658 55 44' – 0" 13.411

16 12' – 9 5/8" 3.901 56 44' – 9 5/8" 13.655

17 13' – 7 1/4" 4.145 57 45' – 7 1/4" 13.899

18 14' – 4 7/8" 4.389 58 46' – 4 7/8" 14.143

19 15' – 2 1/2" 4.633 59 47' – 2 1/2" 14.387

20 16' – 0" 4.877 60 48' – 0' 14.630

21 16' – 9 5/8" 5.121 61 48' – 9 5/8" 14.874

22 17' – 7 1/4" 5.364 62 49' – 7 1/4" 15.118

23 18' – 4 7/8" 5.608 63 50' – 4 7/8" 15.362

24 19' – 2 1/2" 5.852 64 51' – 2 1/2" 15.606

25 20' – 0" 6.096 65 52' – 0" 15.850

26 20' – 9 5/8" 6.340 66 52' – 9 5/8" 16.093

27 21' – 7 1/4" 6.584 67 53' – 7 1/4" 16.337

28 22' – 4 7/8" 6.828 68 54' – 4 7/8" 16.581

29 23' – 2 1/2" 7.071 69 55' – 2 1/2" 16.825

30 24' – 0" 7.315 70 56' – 0" 17.069

31 24' – 9 5/8" 7.559 71 56' – 9 5/8" 17.313

32 25' – 7 1/4" 7 .803 72 57' – 7 1/4" 17.557

33 26' – 4 7/8" 8.047 73 58' – 4 7/8" 17.801

34 27' – 2 1/2" 8.291 74 59' – 2 1/2" 18.045

35 28' – 0" 8.534 75 60' – 0" 18.288

36 28' – 9 5/8" 8.778 76 60' – 9 5/8" 18.532

37 29' – 7 1/4" 9.022 77 61' – 7 1/4" 18.776

38 30' – 4 7/8" 9 .266 78 62' – 4 7/8" 19.020

39 31' – 2 1/2" 9.510 79 63' – 2 1/2" 19.264

40 32' – 0" 9.754 80 64' – 0" 19.507

If this chart is used to locate centers of cells for rebar, remember to start first bar at 4 7/8" and 9 5/8" thereafter. Bold characters define multiples of uncut forms.

Maximum tolerance of this chart is + 1/4". One form = 9 5/8" Wide X 12" Tall X 48" Long = .244 m Wide X .305 m Tall X 1.22 m Long.

COMPATIBLE / SUPPORTING PRODUCTS FOR THE INTERBLOCK WALL SYSTEM

The list of products is included for convenience only and in no way endorses, recom-mends, or is a comprehensive list. Consult with the listed manufacturer prior to usingwith InterBlock Insulated Concrete Forms. Having ones name or product on this listdoes not constitute individual companies' approval or warranties.

Footings

Product Name Company Phone Website

Form-A-Drain Certain Teed Corp. 800-233-8990 certainteed.com

Waterproofing Systems


Polyguard 650 Polyguard Products 800-541-4994 polyguardproducts.com

Grace Waterproofing Products Grace Construction Products 800-354-5414 graceconstruction.com

Aqua-Wrap Aquaseal 888-282-3861 aquasealusa.com

Platon Armtec 800-265-7622 systemplaton.com

Exterior Finishes


Perma Crete Quality Systems 800-607-3762 permacrete.com

StoTherm EIFS Sto Corp. 800-221-2397 stocorp.com

Connection Systems


ICF-Connect ICF-Connect Ltd. 866-497-1576 icfconnect.com

ICF Ledger Connector System Simpson Strong-Tie Co. 800-999-5099 simpsonstrongtie.com

Adhesives


Trigger Foam Powers Fasteners 914-235-6300 powers.com

Enerfoam Dow Chemical Company 800-800-FOAM dow.com

InterBlock

MATERIALS AND TOOLS - Interblock Insulated Concrete FormsInterBlock Insulated Concrete Forms are manufactured from expanded polystyrene (EPS) as a fully molded and solid piece. The

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