ECO-Block ICF

Stronger, quieter, and vastly more energy efficient than traditional concrete foundations and wood-frame buildings, ECO-Block construction is a superior method for constructing your home or commercial building in Yakima and throughout Central Washington.

RAS Contracting is the only authorized contractor, distributing and installing ECO-block in Central and Eastern Washington.

How Does ECO-Block Work?

ECO-Block Insulating Concrete Forms (or ICFs) are expanded polystyrene [polly-STI-reen] panels that easily snap together to form walls. The space between the panels is filled with concrete that hardens into a monolithic, reinforced concrete wall of incredible strength.

The ECO-Block panels remain in place and allow for application of siding, sheetrock or any exterior or interior finishing material as well as adding insulation to the structure.

ECO-Block® Buildings Save Energy, Costs, and Natural Resources

ECO-Block® buildings consistently save 25-50% in monthly utility costs over the life span of the structure, translating into fewer resources consumed for the creation of energy. Beyond the insulating qualities of the foam block (R-22), the thermal mass of the concrete acts as an energy reservoir which helps maintain an even indoor temperature. Consequently, the HVAC system can be scaled down as much as 35%, offering additional cost savings.

An average 2,000 square foot home built with ECO-Block® can save up to 47 trees, which would have been cut for creating lumber.

What does all of this mean? Using ECO-Block for your next residential or commercial construction project will save you time and money and help you to build a more energy efficient building to save the occupant money for years to come!

Advantages of ECO-Block

• ICF construction is faster and simpler than conventional forming, taking less time with fewer people.
• The result is an Energy Star-rated building that is resistant to fire, moisture, mold, and pests.
• ECO-Block is environmentally friendly, saving natural resources, conserving energy, and releasing no harmful, ozone-depleting substances.
• ECO-Block’s superior product makes it easier to get your project done right the first time, saving you time and labor costs.
• ECO-Block serves to further insulate the structure.

Why Use Eco-Block?

Because Eco-Block is …

… simpler to install

• Build from the footing/foundation to the roofline, using one crew and one system.
• Form walls 4” thick and greater in 2” increments.
• Create any shape or contour to fit your design and architectural specifications.
• Apply any exterior or interior finish.

… faster to build

• Cut forms easily, minimizing waste and maximizing scrap usage.
• Assemble walls of any size quickly.
• Install window and door openings with ease.

... ensures better results

• Increases energy efficiency and cost savings by insulating the structure.
• Reduces noise transmission: STC 51 for a 6” concrete core. ECO-Block can be used in the walls of media rooms and movie theaters to isolate sound.
• Does not support the growth of mold or mildew.
• Termites will not affect its structural integrity.
• Can be built to any seismic or hurricane-storm standard.
• Up to a four-hour Fire Resistive Rating.
• Serves as a vapor barrier.
• Provides a rat resistant and pest resistant barrier.

… an ecologically sound building system

• Reduces utility costs on your heating and air conditioning with Energy Star certification.
• Uses recycled content.
• Uses no CFCs, HCFCs, formaldehyde, asbestos or fiberglass.
• Improves indoor air quality – ECO-Block is hypoallergenic and does not produce any fumes or gases once installed.
• Minimizes manufacturing and construction waste.
• ECO-Block is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and contributes to the USGBC LEED™ program.

Visit the Eco-BLOCK website for more information -