You probably already know about the benefits of ICF blocks for various construction applications. However, builders must make many decisions when planning projects. One of these decisions is whether to use traditional wood bucking or ICF bucks for windows and doors.
Wood is still the go-to option for many builders. It is especially popular among those who started working with traditional formwork and later moved to ICF construction. These builders typically choose wood because it’s what they know and are comfortable with.
Making door and window bucks from wood has served builders well forever. It even predates the history of ICF construction. However, many manufacturers now offer pre-formed EPS bucks.
Comparing ICF Bucks to Wood Bucking for Doors and Windows
What are bucks, and what is their role in ICF construction projects? In ICF formwork, bucks are framing elements builders use to form openings for windows and doors. Bucks act as end caps that contain the concrete during the pour and define the shape and dimensions of the opening. Beyond that, they provide the structure needed to attach windows, doors, trim, and interior or exterior finishes.
Whether made from wood or EPS foam, a good buck must prevent concrete leakage and remain square and level during the pour. Ensure it provides a reliable seal against air and moisture leakage for the finished structure. Other factors to consider are ease of installation, reliability, and how well the buck integrates with the ICF forms.
Installation and Ease of Use
Wood bucking follows a process most builders will understand when it comes to installation. You must get the opening’s dimensions and measure, cut, and assemble the forms. You can often do this at your shop before heading to the job site. The builder must ensure the buck is perfectly square and secure in the forms. They must also ensure proper bracing to resist concrete pressure. Misalignment or inadequate bracing can result in concrete blowouts or uneven openings. Wood bucks also require sealing and, in many cases, additional treatment to protect against moisture infiltration.
You can simplify much of this process with ICF bucks. ICF manufacturers design their pre-formed bucks to integrate seamlessly with their wall systems. However, many builders may need wood bracing to reinforce the buck during the pour. That said, it requires less wood and cutting than using wood bucks. Consider using Burmon buck braces. These braces can speed up bracing and eliminate the need for horizontal wood braces. As another benefit, ICF bucks often come with integrated attachment points and fastening strips for installing windows, doors, and other elements.
Maintaining Thermal Performance
Builders and property owners choose ICFs for their energy efficiency. The concrete core and continuous insulation create a tight building envelope and low thermal bridging. However, window and door openings can be a weak point in this regard. These openings are where ICF structures are most likely to experience energy loss. Your choice of bucking material can make a big difference in preventing heat loss.
Wood is a poor insulator and creates thermal bridges within an otherwise continuous ICF wall. These gaps in insulation can lead to significant heat loss and air leakage around window and door openings. Wood bucks often require additional sealing, spray foam, or insulation work to mitigate these issues. That means more time and materials to achieve a finished opening, which could also increase costs.
ICF bucks provide a bucking solution made from the same EPS foam as the forms. You have a reliable insulator for strong R-values. They also fit with the ICF blocks to create a superior seal and maintain the continuity of the insulation. That eliminates the cold spots and drafts often associated with wood bucks. ICF bucks achieve higher energy performance standards with less effort by minimizing thermal bridging and ensuring seals.
Impact on Design Flexibility
Both foam and wood bucks offer excellent design flexibility for door and window openings. With the right tools, you can cut and assemble near-endless designs for wood bucks. ICF products typically come in standardized sizes and designs to integrate easily with the wall system. However, the manufacturer might have different sizes and shapes. You can also cut the bucks to custom sizes.
Wood and foam bucks offer similar design flexibility for most standard residential and commercial applications. The seamless integration of ICF bucks might make it easier to achieve design goals. However, wood might be better for highly customized or irregular designs.
Durable Construction and Long-Term Reliability
Durability and long-term performance are key considerations when selecting bucking materials. While wood bucks can perform well, they are vulnerable in many ways. You must ensure the wood is pressure-treated and suitable for outdoor use. However, even pressure-treated lumber can be susceptible to moisture intrusion, rot, warping, and fungal growth over time. Insects like termites and ants also pose a risk in some climates. These issues can degrade the performance of wood bucks and require future repairs.
The EPS foam material of ICFs offers better long-term durability. It is naturally resistant to moisture and will not warp or rot. It is also immune to insect infestations and resistant to mold growth. Once installed, these bucks maintain their shape, seal, and attachment integrity for the life of the structure. That makes pre-formed foam bucks a superior choice when lifespan and durability are concerns.
Overall Cost Considerations
People might initially assume wood is cheaper because standard lumber is inexpensive. However, it becomes less clear when you factor in the cost of pressure-treated lumber, sealants, moisture treatments, and more. You must also consider labor and the potential for material waste that can add to the costs.
EPS foam is a relatively affordable material. Since manufacturers design it to integrate with the wall system, you also save time. Less cutting and wood also means reduced waste on the job site. Property owners must also consider the impact on energy efficiency and durability. These factors could provide additional savings over the structure’s life.
Meet the Gorilla Buck From SuperForm
If you’re looking for a high-performance ICF buck, you can’t go wrong with the Gorilla Buck from Superform. Made from EPS foam, the Gorilla Buck provides a continuous insulation barrier around window and door openings. That eliminates thermal bridging and minimizes air and moisture infiltration.
What also sets the Gorilla Buck apart is its user-friendly design. It features friction-fit internal rails that securely lock into SuperForm ICF blocks. Workers can easily brace these bucks with wood. Gorilla Bucks also work well with Burmon ICF buck braces. They also have molded polypropylene webs to allow attachment for windows, doors, trim, and more.
With fewer cuts, less fastening, and built-in finishing support, our Gorilla Buck saves time and performs better. That means secure bucking, better long-term durability, and superior energy efficiency while cutting costs and reducing labor.
Are you interested in building with ICF blocks? SuperForm offers a range of innovative ICF products. Reach out now to learn more about