ICF walls have additional advantages over conventional building systems. ICF blocks are more weatherproof and easier to install, in addition to offering exceptional energy efficiency.
Fox Blocks and Nudura are two popular brands you might come across if you’ve decided to use an insulated concrete form to build your house.
It can be challenging to choose between these two ICF products when comparing them because they have a lot in common.
Here is a detailed comparison of Nudura and Fox Blocks ICFs in case you are having trouble making your decision. You ought to be prepared to make a decision by the time you finish reading this article.
Nudura: What Is It?
Innovative technology is used in the manufacturing of Nudura-insulated concrete forms. One of their primary selling points is this. The following are a few technological features of their ICFs:
- DURAMAX Technology: This results in a faster installation and better product utilization. With the largest blocks available, Nudura’s DURAMAX technology considerably reduces waste compared to other ICFs.
- DURAFOLD Technology: A hinged web that enables folding and unfolding of the product is visible when examining a Nudura block. These blocks take up very little room when unfolded, which improves shipping and transportation efficiency.
The fact that this product is made in Canada makes the Durafold technology very useful. As a result, reducing shipping space will result in cheaper transportation.
- DURALOK Technology: Nudura blocks have fastening strips at the bottom that enable two blocks to lock into one another.
This expedites installation and reduces the quantity of seams. Nudura requires no clipping, making it very simple to work with.
In addition to having more sophisticated technology, Nudura blocks have a larger horizontal and vertical footprint. You will therefore be able to finish your walls more quickly as you stack them.
Additionally, these ICFs have superior thermal performance. Because of its high R-values, Nudura controls the amount of heat lost to the outside, thereby promoting indoor comfort.
Online, Nudura has received a great deal of praise. Numerous users, including contractors and homeowners, have commended Nudura for its robustness and longevity.
The manufacturer claims that Nudura ICFs are resistant to exposure to extreme weather. They also act as sound-insulators, making interior spaces quieter.
In addition to ICFs, Nudura offers a variety of other products that are intended to improve the functionality of your ICF system.
Waterproofing membranes, window bucking systems, and extra fastening strips are a few examples. When it comes to stronger joints, the latter is highly beneficial.
Nudura is without a doubt a respectable ICF system manufacturer and supplier. Their blocks are robust, energy-efficient, simple to install, and suitable for a variety of uses.
Fox Blocks: What Are They?
Since 2005, Fox Blocks has been selling ICFs. Leading the industry in insulated concrete forms is Fox Blocks. That is why many people consider their products to be the best.
They make their concrete forms with the utmost accuracy. Fox Blocks are double insulated to ensure higher energy efficiency ratings.
I adore Fox Blocks because in addition to producing high-performing ICF systems, they also provide extra assistance and instruction. This is a domain in which Nudura struggles.
The Fox Blocks guys can come to your site and help, or they can even train you. This inspires do-it-yourselfers to construct their own ICF systems.
Fox Blocks ICFs are made to endure all seasons, including severe weather, as would be expected. Fox Blocks are made to comply with all building codes, so you don’t need to worry about local laws either.
The knowledge that your walls are extraordinarily sturdy and steel-reinforced will also give you peace of mind. There is a constant natural vapor barrier on these walls.
This reduces the quantity of moisture that permeates. Fastening strips are embedded in these blocks, ensuring a strong lock.
Given the high-performance systems that Fox Blocks sells and the length of time that they have been in business, this company has earned the respect of engineers and builders.
As a result, your contractor will most likely recommend Fox Blocks if you ask them which ICFs are the best.
What Distinguishes Them?
I know the majority of you were looking forward to this section. The following are some of the main distinctions between Fox Blocks and Nudura:
The Blocks’ Lengths and Heights Vary
A Nudura block appears to be longer and taller. As a result, compared to Fox Blocks, you won’t need to fit as many pieces, meaning you can install it much faster. Consequently, choose Nudura ICFs if you want faster installation times.
But compared to Fox Blocks, Nudura has smaller corners. When pouring, this can become problematic as tiny corners are prone to blowing out. Pouring into Nudura’s smaller corners requires extreme caution.
Distinct Fastening Technology
Nudura’s blocks automatically adhere to one another because of the Duralok technology. All you need to do is secure the teeth by aligning them between the blocks. When it occurs, you will hear a snap.
Conversely, steel fastening clips are included with Fox Blocks. Despite its apparent disadvantage, this is actually quite useful.
Fastening clips will stay firmly locked as you pour concrete. Regarding Nudura’s fastening technology, the same cannot be said.
The Price
A lot of talk surrounds the idea that cost shouldn’t be the primary consideration when purchasing building supplies. Let’s be practical, though.
Because construction jobs can be costly, you should take advantage of any opportunity to reduce costs.
Fox Blocks are about 30% to 40% less expensive than Nudura. It is dependent upon where you are. This is the primary rationale behind individuals preferring Fox Blocks to Nudura.
The fact that Nudura is mostly manufactured in Canada is likely the reason for its high price. As a result, the cost of shipping this product to the US raises its price.
What Similarities There Are Between Them?
They Provide a Vast Selection of ICF Products
Be it Fox Blocks or Nudura, you will receive high-quality ICF products. Their product lists are identical.
Fox and Nudura Blocks Provide Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a top priority for these two businesses. Because of this, their insulating foam panels are made to reduce the cost of heating and cooling.
The ICFs are Long-Lasting
Both Fox Blocks and Nudura exhibit very impressive engineering. They have sturdy buildings that are resistant to bad weather.
Advantages of Nudura
- The foldable design makes transportation simple and affordable.
- Clips are not required for installation.
- Installation of the panels is quicker and larger.
- These boards incorporate numerous cutting-edge technologies.
Drawbacks With Nudura
- They cost a lot of money.
- The corners have weak points that can blow out.
Benefits Of Fox Blocks
- Their ICFs provide the best comfort and insulation available.
- Reasonably priced
- Resistant to severe weather
- Stronger joints are guaranteed by the fastening clips.
Drawbacks To Fox Blocks
- Heavy and difficult to move
- After installation, remodeling is challenging.
Fox Blocks vs. Nudura: Which is superior?
Both Nudura and Fox Blocks have advantages over one another, despite the fact that their goals are to improve the energy efficiency of both residential and commercial buildings.
While Nudura boasts an abundance of impressive technology, Fox Blocks is an excellent ICF that is reasonably priced.
Fox Blocks is a great option if you’re on a budget and still want to benefit from ICF walls. Nudura, on the other hand, ought to be your first choice if you require an ICF with a ton of amazing features and ease of installation.
