I am researching to use icf blocks for my new home 2200sq ft with full basement and a 1100sq ft garage. Anyone have any opinions on foxblocks or used some in the area. I have considered them since they can be purchased locally at menards.   

Excellent block with huge corners. Make sure you use the block clips, gives you a straight, strong wall

Posted By p4knee on 08 Jan 2012 05:53 PM
I am researching to use icf blocks for my new home 2200sq ft with full basement and a 1100sq ft garage. Anyone have any opinions on foxblocks or used some in the area. I have considered them since they can be purchased locally at menards.   

Fox is still advertising $14.71 per block or $2.76 per square foot.  In general, the problem is not so much the block but who's going to install it or support it.  If you are an installer with experience then you should be fine.  If you are an adventurous do-it-yourselfer you might do better to find someone in your area with experiece and use the block they prefer.   Over the years all of the installs gone bad (that I know of) have come from blocks that sell direct without required training or on-site support.    For this reason, I had thought that Fox was adopting/pursuing a distributor model but I suppose if they are selling out of a store that's not correct.  Regards.

I second that. Get help. Stacking blocks is easy. Bucks/lintels/stirrups/straight and plumb walls is the hard part.

I would love to tackle the job myself and then hire an experienced contractor to oversee the job and assist with the concrete pour. Thanks for the info

Posted By p4knee on 09 Jan 2012 04:04 PM
I would love to tackle the job myself and then hire an experienced contractor to oversee the job and assist with the concrete pour. Thanks for the info

Do you have all the money in hand to do this project without a construction loan? If not, there is a 99.9% probability you are not going to get to first base with a banker unless you have a contractor on board. It hasn't been easy for years now for a DIY to get a construction loan on their own, and with today's financial situation I dare say you have a zero chance of getting it.

So, you most likely are going to have to have a GC whose name will be on the line with the bank so you might as well make it one experienced with ICF.

that statement depends on a lot of many things. The bank (smaller "hometown" banks are more willing to work with you) as well as experience you can prove to them you are capable of it. I have several banks in my area that will work with DIYers. In fact one I am working with will allow 0 down as long as the house appraises for 20% then the construction loan (they are claiming your sweat equity is your down payment, so to speak). But you are correct in the environment is a tough one for DIYers. Then again, I have construction experience plus my profession puts them at ease/makes them more willing to work with me. Some of it will be subbed out work (all new work that must be completed by a licensed contractor in my state, such as electrical and plumbing).

Posted By p4knee on 09 Jan 2012 04:04 PM
I would love to tackle the job myself and then hire an experienced contractor to oversee the job and assist with the concrete pour. Thanks for the info

Based on that info...you may find it easier, faster and perhaps more cost effective to just have an experienced contractor do the job and he may let you 'play' for a bit.

Fox Block are an excellent ICF as most are. Hire it done, and do the finish work yourself, you will likely still be overwhelmed.

FoxBlock is a great block but I would also look at BuildBlock ICF's.  They have an excellent Rep (David Rabar 574-780-8102).  He works with the DIYer and BuildBlock produces their product in Elkhart, IN.

That's great i will look into those then. I always like to buy local if i can. Thanks again

BuildBlock is also an excellent ICF, good service too. We use mostly BuildBlock lately.

Im in northwest indiana, chesterton to be exact. I have my own set of bracing etc. I can rent you the bracing and give you a hand if you need it. I am a carpenter by trade and have done concrete my whole life, and icf's for about 3 years. Its been a very easy learning curve for me. Feel free to call me with any questions. Brian 219 406 2853