Concrete Foam Blocks | Types, Sizes & Properties

A concrete foam block (also called an Insulated Concrete Form block; or ICF) is an aerated, lightweight building block made from cement, water, and a foaming agent. Because concrete foam blocks are porous, they are perfect for soundproofing and insulation. 

Lontto Block Machine has put together this guide on the different types of concrete foam blocks to answer some of your common questions. You’ll also learn where these blocks are most commonly used and how they benefit buildings when combined with regular concrete. If you’re in construction, these facts will be useful for recognizing the many benefits of using concrete foam blocks in more of your projects.

Types of Concrete Foam Blocks

Among the most popular types of concrete foam blocks are Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Blocks, Non-Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (NAAC) Blocks, Foam Concrete Blocks, and Lightweight Concrete Blocks with Polystyrene (EPS Blocks). AAC Blocks are known for their exceptional insulation and fire resistance, while NAAC Blocks are widely used for their affordable durability. 

In addition, Foam Concrete Blocks are preferred for their ease of use and flexibility, whereas EPS Blocks deliver structural integrity and superior thermal performance. Sizes for these concrete foam blocks vary between 600 x 200 x 100 mm and 600 x 200 x 300 mm. 

What are Different ICF Block Properties and Uses?

Different ICF blocks have unique properties, making them ideal for certain uses in construction. For example, their lightweight properties mean they can be used for construction without adding too much weight to an overall structure.   

Here’s a quick breakdown of the four main ICF blocks, their properties, uses, and the pros and cons of each one in terms of compression strength, cost, and usability. 

ICF Blocks: Properties and Uses

ICF Blocks: Pros and Cons

What are the Dimensions of ICF Blocks?

ICF blocks dimensions typically range from 48 x 16 x 6 inches to 48 x 24 x 12 inches; however, different blocks have different standard sizes. This is particularly true when ICF blocks are custom manufactured. We’ve outlined the most typical ICF block types as manufactured by standard block machines:

What is a Graphite EPS Block? How is it Connected to ICF Blocks?

A graphite expanded polystyrene block comes with superior insulation properties and has a close connection to ICF blocks. Its manufacturing includes graphite-infused polystyrene and offers better heat resistance, energy efficiency, and insulation. Graphite EPS is an upgrade from standard ICF blocks and costs more too. 

Because of an increase in net-zero buildings, Graphite EPS is used more often today. Its properties make it perfect for insulating structures, reducing the need for heating or cooling. It also decreases external heat absorption, so building interiors retain room temperatures. 

You will find that graphite EPS is used predominantly in:

• Energy-efficient homes
• Upscale commercial buildings 
• Hotels
• Large office buildings
• Factories where temperature control is necessary
• Modern family homes in very hot or cold areas

How Much Has the Use of Foam Concrete Increased Over the Past 20 Years?

The use of foam concrete has increased significantly over the past 20 years. This is because of a higher demand for energy-efficient homes that need insulation, heat resistance, and lightweight adaptability. Popular foam concrete structures include:

• Blocks
• Sandwich panels
• Facades
• Wall sheets
• Floor slabs

In the past, foam concrete was considered weak and non-durable. However, today it is manufactured in ways that decrease shrinkage, increase durability, and make it easier to work with in construction. 

There are many advantages to using foam concrete in conjunction with regular concrete. Regular concrete with a high psi (compressive strength) offers high durability for load-bearing structures, while additional foam concrete adds insulation to those structures. 

Lontto Block Machine gives you more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing and supplying block-making machines. We’re also proud to provide support services for installation and training. Contact us today to learn more about our solutions!

Concrete Foam Blocks: Types, Sizes, and Properties | FAQs

What are the disadvantages of foam concrete?

Foam concrete, or ICF blocks, has structural limitations and environmental vulnerabilities. Its lower compressive strength makes it unsuitable for heavy load-bearing projects. The material can shrink, crack, and, if improperly mixed, absorb moisture, weakening its integrity. It also struggles in harsh conditions, reducing its longevity. Despite these issues, it is often more expensive than traditional alternatives, impacting its cost-effectiveness.

Is foam concrete cheaper than regular concrete?

No, foam concrete is not cheaper than regular concrete. Because it takes more time and materials to produce, foam concrete is rarer and more expensive than regular concrete. It’s also more sought after because of its insulation, fire resistance, and lightweight properties. 

Does foam concrete absorb water?

Foam concrete does absorb water, but much less than regular concrete. Once it has fully cured, it retains a level of density that can mitigate water absorption if it is dense enough. The density of foam concrete depends heavily on the curing process and the initial mixing of the concrete. 

How durable is foam concrete compared to regular concrete?

Foam concrete is less durable than regular concrete due to its lower compressive strength. Different forms of foam concrete can retain a compressive strength of around 400 to 1,500 psi. Moreover, the psi of foam concrete depends on how it is mixed and how it is cured post-application. 

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