Basic Common Techniques of Different Types of Earthen Construction Continued
From Page(s) > 1 , 2 , 3
Which covered a few of the Basics of the revitalized ancient and common Earthen Construction Techniques offered by Earthen Construction.
Including:
Page 1 - Rammed Earth, Rammed Earth Brick or Block, Rammed-Earth-Tire Block, and Cobb
Page 2 - Earthbag, Hay or Straw-Bale, Light Stray Clay or Slip Straw, Slip and Chip, Wattle-and-Daub
Page 3 - Below, basic common techniques of different types of Earthen Construction continued with Cord-Wood, Log, and Hybrid {Combined} Sustainable Methods
Page 4 - Hemp
Page 5 - Hybrid {Combined} Sustainable Methods Continued with 10 Found or Recycled Alternatives: including Glass
and Ceramic
Continued > 4 , 5
Which covered a few of the Basics of the revitalized ancient and common Earthen Construction Techniques offered by Earthen Construction.
Including:
Page 1 - Rammed Earth, Rammed Earth Brick or Block, Rammed-Earth-Tire Block, and Cobb
Page 2 - Earthbag, Hay or Straw-Bale, Light Stray Clay or Slip Straw, Slip and Chip, Wattle-and-Daub
Page 3 - Below, basic common techniques of different types of Earthen Construction continued with Cord-Wood, Log, and Hybrid {Combined} Sustainable Methods
Page 4 - Hemp
Page 5 - Hybrid {Combined} Sustainable Methods Continued with 10 Found or Recycled Alternatives: including Glass
and Ceramic
Continued > 4 , 5
Basic Common Examples of Cord-wood Techniques ~
I must say, as a treehugger at heart myself, I have very mixed feelings. If trees are plentiful where your at, in some areas they are, it may do them a little good to be thinned out. Most trees should be kept at least approx 30' from any structure. Those closer than 20' may require special attention to survive. At the same time, if you don't have many trees in your area. It maybe better to consider a more sustainable Earthen Construction method and spare the trees. At times, it can be a useful, safe and wonderful way to utilize some fallen trees and found woods, including driftwood and other items.
I do so love the natural beauty of this common Earthen Construction Technique. Cord-wood, can have an excellent R Factor depending on the timber or wall thickness, insulation and maintenance factors. Wood dries and cracks over time. Cracks must be kept filled and sealed, for R factor to remain good. Wood is also susceptible to burning, rot, splitting, termites,... If not maintained and sealed properly... Yet, if it is utilized properly and with holistic sustainability in mind, cord-wood can be a beautiful addition to the construction of any home.
As it, like all our other natural Earthen Construction techniques offered; can be just as easily integrated and utilized for interior wall, floor, and ceiling,... Into any building process of construction, just as it can be for interior or exterior construction. Let us not forget the artisan, and the details that can be created in the wood, from wood,... Which can be customized, embellished upon, envisioned, carved and/or sculpted like clay; by an experienced Artisan builder such as myself.
There are many types of wood, methods, substances, and/or techniques that can be discussed here on how to join the cord wood together. Many that have already been discussed, such as common basic Cobb and Light-Straw-Slip... One could add cement or mortar to that list if you wish, but it is not the most healthy sustainable material, Cobb is more energy efficient and sustainable in it's properties.
Yes, there are some types of wood that just aren't good for building or construction. For more understanding about the different wood types, visit a list of types at American Hardwoods.
I do so love the natural beauty of this common Earthen Construction Technique. Cord-wood, can have an excellent R Factor depending on the timber or wall thickness, insulation and maintenance factors. Wood dries and cracks over time. Cracks must be kept filled and sealed, for R factor to remain good. Wood is also susceptible to burning, rot, splitting, termites,... If not maintained and sealed properly... Yet, if it is utilized properly and with holistic sustainability in mind, cord-wood can be a beautiful addition to the construction of any home.
As it, like all our other natural Earthen Construction techniques offered; can be just as easily integrated and utilized for interior wall, floor, and ceiling,... Into any building process of construction, just as it can be for interior or exterior construction. Let us not forget the artisan, and the details that can be created in the wood, from wood,... Which can be customized, embellished upon, envisioned, carved and/or sculpted like clay; by an experienced Artisan builder such as myself.
There are many types of wood, methods, substances, and/or techniques that can be discussed here on how to join the cord wood together. Many that have already been discussed, such as common basic Cobb and Light-Straw-Slip... One could add cement or mortar to that list if you wish, but it is not the most healthy sustainable material, Cobb is more energy efficient and sustainable in it's properties.
Yes, there are some types of wood that just aren't good for building or construction. For more understanding about the different wood types, visit a list of types at American Hardwoods.
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Logs or split lumber should dry for at least a year before building. Pieces should never touch each other {as the pieces in the image below appear to} in construction, as it would promote rot. The flat or split sides should never be pointed up or set on flat surfaces, where they can hold water on their edges. If used as an exterior, as in all our previous Techniques, if your in a really wet climate, the roof should have a major overhang to protect the exterior walls of the house or structure and foundation should be able to breath and or drain. Just consider both the latter, Important Rules to Remember in any type of Earthen Construction.
Cord-wood construction can be done for free, with very little waste if you can DIY and you have the trees, lumber or timber supply on your property needed. It can also be very expensive, depending on who is doing it for you or where you live.
In my opinion, as beautiful as it is, construction with cord-wood or any wood should probably be kept inside or only utilized in small sections on the exterior, in very cold wet climates; for the sake of complete holistic sustainability of any house, structure or family...
Cord-wood construction can be done for free, with very little waste if you can DIY and you have the trees, lumber or timber supply on your property needed. It can also be very expensive, depending on who is doing it for you or where you live.
In my opinion, as beautiful as it is, construction with cord-wood or any wood should probably be kept inside or only utilized in small sections on the exterior, in very cold wet climates; for the sake of complete holistic sustainability of any house, structure or family...
Basic Common Examples of Log Techniques ~
The basic common techniques or rules of common log construction, are basically the same as those used in cord-wood construction; only the sections, pieces or logs are larger and heavier to work with. Suddenly, the understanding of physics, block, tackle, and leverage.... Are very important.
As it is with all common Earthen Construction techniques, a good dry level foundation is a major key to success in building. Make sure your cabin or structure is well above ground level and has roof overhangs that are at least 2 feet. Most building codes call for at least 8 inches clearance between the ground and top of the foundation wall. Try to set your cabin at 16 inches. This will ensure that ground moisture, snow drifts and splashing rain water won’t invade your lower logs.
For optimizing your budget, space and with sustainability purposes in mind; one might want to remember these basic rules that guided our ancestors -
Holistic Sustainable Construction Rule # 1 - Small, Simple and Secure. While again, always keeping the purpose in mind; when it comes to the design of any structure. Giving attention to making the most of your space and/or any storage demands for comfort. When it comes to cabins, for most of us, this means a safe place to sleep, a comfortable place to relax and a shelter from foul weather that still allows us to hear the rain.
As it is with all common Earthen Construction techniques, a good dry level foundation is a major key to success in building. Make sure your cabin or structure is well above ground level and has roof overhangs that are at least 2 feet. Most building codes call for at least 8 inches clearance between the ground and top of the foundation wall. Try to set your cabin at 16 inches. This will ensure that ground moisture, snow drifts and splashing rain water won’t invade your lower logs.
For optimizing your budget, space and with sustainability purposes in mind; one might want to remember these basic rules that guided our ancestors -
Holistic Sustainable Construction Rule # 1 - Small, Simple and Secure. While again, always keeping the purpose in mind; when it comes to the design of any structure. Giving attention to making the most of your space and/or any storage demands for comfort. When it comes to cabins, for most of us, this means a safe place to sleep, a comfortable place to relax and a shelter from foul weather that still allows us to hear the rain.
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If you plan on keeping critters out? Place your cabin on a completely enclosed crawlspace rather than leaving the foundation open. Don’t place animal pens, stacks of rocks, debris or firewood too close to your house; and make sure your chimney has a cap and bird screen. Also, be sure cracks, spaces, windows and doors are sealed tightly. * If you live in bear country, you should avoid storing food in your cabin. Instead, build an elevated storage shed or root cellar away from the house. Growing ones own food is the fourth Key to sustainability.
Before finalizing your design, be sure to check with local building-code authorities to make sure your cabin will meet requirements. Cabins are usually held to slightly different standards than primary residence but still require building permits. If I haven't mentioned this before now, as with any common project that requires Septic systems and wells; they do generally require permits and licensed installers.
Today there are all kinds of shed, shelter and home kits sold; composites, prefab, kiln dried and/or chemically treated lumber or building materials... Chemically treated lumber, composite materials, chemicals in general; should always be avoided in an interior construction for health reason. Natural solutions for finishing, curing and drying lumber or timber are preferred and therefore recommended in and by Earthen Construction.
Holistic Sustainable Construction Rule # 2 - When taking nature into consideration, one must include human nature and our impact on the whole. So be real with yourself where you, your area, community, family, friends, goals, impact and limits are concerned. Though, most are much more powerful and have a bigger impact on the whole than they are willing to admit to themselves.
"We are but one thread within the web of life." - Chief Seattle
For all those DIY selfers out there, asking themselves, if they can really do this? "Can't couldn't do anything that he didn't want to" and "you got this!" Even if you lack certain knowledge, have disabilities, health issues or other concerns... Consult those in the know. If needed, start with your doctors for their approval; and then remember, techniques and tools can be modified... It is always so-called Limits that Cause Innovation. Maybe your goal or project can become a community, group or church project... Turning it into an Educational Event for others in your area. Because you are not alone. No matter where your at. Network, reach out, volunteer,... and/or you can always contact me/us, your favorite local Earthen Construction Contractors.
Holistic Sustainability Construction Rule# 3 - Education is the first key to sustainability. Do the research, ask questions and always educate yourself on all the alternatives, materials, options and processes,... That are appropriate and available for your area, goal and project. So that you know what could or should be happening for the most part, in any building or construction project. For y(our) advantage, protection and safety.
Before finalizing your design, be sure to check with local building-code authorities to make sure your cabin will meet requirements. Cabins are usually held to slightly different standards than primary residence but still require building permits. If I haven't mentioned this before now, as with any common project that requires Septic systems and wells; they do generally require permits and licensed installers.
Today there are all kinds of shed, shelter and home kits sold; composites, prefab, kiln dried and/or chemically treated lumber or building materials... Chemically treated lumber, composite materials, chemicals in general; should always be avoided in an interior construction for health reason. Natural solutions for finishing, curing and drying lumber or timber are preferred and therefore recommended in and by Earthen Construction.
Holistic Sustainable Construction Rule # 2 - When taking nature into consideration, one must include human nature and our impact on the whole. So be real with yourself where you, your area, community, family, friends, goals, impact and limits are concerned. Though, most are much more powerful and have a bigger impact on the whole than they are willing to admit to themselves.
"We are but one thread within the web of life." - Chief Seattle
For all those DIY selfers out there, asking themselves, if they can really do this? "Can't couldn't do anything that he didn't want to" and "you got this!" Even if you lack certain knowledge, have disabilities, health issues or other concerns... Consult those in the know. If needed, start with your doctors for their approval; and then remember, techniques and tools can be modified... It is always so-called Limits that Cause Innovation. Maybe your goal or project can become a community, group or church project... Turning it into an Educational Event for others in your area. Because you are not alone. No matter where your at. Network, reach out, volunteer,... and/or you can always contact me/us, your favorite local Earthen Construction Contractors.
Holistic Sustainability Construction Rule# 3 - Education is the first key to sustainability. Do the research, ask questions and always educate yourself on all the alternatives, materials, options and processes,... That are appropriate and available for your area, goal and project. So that you know what could or should be happening for the most part, in any building or construction project. For y(our) advantage, protection and safety.
Basic Common Examples of Hybrid Sustainability Methods and Techniques ~
Again, it is an image or vision of the Earthship type structure that commonly comes to mind these days, as it is a prime example of the basic common technique of Hybrid Sustainable Construction. {Again, Examples were found under Commons and/or shared under Fair Use} Demonstrating the importance of combining different wall systems, materials and techniques with the concepts of maximizing your resources while reducing reliance upon the communities or earths resources,... Sustainability; including recycling, reuse and/or intelligent use as a major key to holistic sustainability and that it should always be considered across the board in any sustainable building and construction or landscaping project; when it can/does directly affect your bank account, carbon foot print {= Your physical mark left behind upon the earth or universe due to your consumption of resources and the waste your life produced while your here.}, nature, health and/or freedom. Not to mention, that of your spouses, families, friends or communities.
Holistic Sustainability Construction Rule# 4 - There is always a healthy alternative! = "Think outside the box and then remember you have the keys to the box." When developing your project plan. Are y(our) resources limited? What about those of y(our) community? Is it waste, if it has an alternative use or is it a renewable supply? Alternative Waste Management to maximize y(our) resources which includes recycling or reuse... Such as, after initial waste recycling, is burning left over solid waste for heat another option? How many ways are there to do this and what is the most efficient green heating process for your climate or region? Developing a building plan that includes and employs alternative goals or solutions to maximize the success of your sustainability building project, goals or plan.
What do I mean by across the board? I mean; considering, planning and providing for the most efficient healthy alternative to every aspect, detail and purpose; for the purpose of conservation, restoration, total sustainability and/or protection. From the energy, materials and/or waste needed, used or consumed to build or maintain; to the energy, materials or waste produced... During and after.
Holistic Sustainability Construction Rule # 5 - Remember Economics, Environment and Resources - Availability, Scarcity and Renew-ability of the Supply; Supply, Demand, the Market Price, Protection, New use, Reuse and eliminating reliance on the market place and non-renewable resources; Creating Efficiency.
As we have seen again and again here, an Artisan approach, eye or creative mindset; can be a big plus where innovations and uses of materials, techniques, processes and final appearance or curb appeal, are concerned in sustainable Earthen Construction.
The more sustainable the project. The less energy is required and less waste produced. Also see the U.S. Sustainable Construction Standards PDF by Habitat for Humanity
Holistic Sustainability Construction Rule# 4 - There is always a healthy alternative! = "Think outside the box and then remember you have the keys to the box." When developing your project plan. Are y(our) resources limited? What about those of y(our) community? Is it waste, if it has an alternative use or is it a renewable supply? Alternative Waste Management to maximize y(our) resources which includes recycling or reuse... Such as, after initial waste recycling, is burning left over solid waste for heat another option? How many ways are there to do this and what is the most efficient green heating process for your climate or region? Developing a building plan that includes and employs alternative goals or solutions to maximize the success of your sustainability building project, goals or plan.
What do I mean by across the board? I mean; considering, planning and providing for the most efficient healthy alternative to every aspect, detail and purpose; for the purpose of conservation, restoration, total sustainability and/or protection. From the energy, materials and/or waste needed, used or consumed to build or maintain; to the energy, materials or waste produced... During and after.
Holistic Sustainability Construction Rule # 5 - Remember Economics, Environment and Resources - Availability, Scarcity and Renew-ability of the Supply; Supply, Demand, the Market Price, Protection, New use, Reuse and eliminating reliance on the market place and non-renewable resources; Creating Efficiency.
As we have seen again and again here, an Artisan approach, eye or creative mindset; can be a big plus where innovations and uses of materials, techniques, processes and final appearance or curb appeal, are concerned in sustainable Earthen Construction.
The more sustainable the project. The less energy is required and less waste produced. Also see the U.S. Sustainable Construction Standards PDF by Habitat for Humanity
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"It is all a means to an end." - unknown
Spending some initial energy, time, and resources; to create and conserve energy, time and resources later = More Freedom and more Resources
Spending some initial energy, time, and resources; to create and conserve energy, time and resources later = More Freedom and more Resources
When building or constructing any foundation there are some things that one may want to consider during the layout and estimation process beginning with purpose, height and size of the building project or structure and ending with the type of foundation that would be required to support it.
Basic Popular Designs
Foundations, Formulas and Recommendations
Other Recommendations Concerning Construction and Foundations
Moisture/Vapor Barrier(s)
Damp Basement, Crawlspace and/or Foundation Solution(s)
Particle Barrier
Insect/Termite Barrier(s)
Frost Barrier(s)
*It is Important to Note: Adding a Moisture or Vapor Barrier can be a big plus to any home, building or structure depending on how and where it is added. At the same time, if a moisture barrier is misconstructed it could cause the same damage that you were trying to prevent. This mistake of not applying a moisture barrier properly or not at all, is very common in my opinion. Especially in structures that have had a Contractor apply Vinyl Siding to Wood Framed homes or buildings... As most Contractors do not apply moisture barriers unless you are watching, though many probably have charged for the installation of one they did not install. While many Contractors really have no real idea how to install one properly, if they even know what it is. The idea is to keep moisture out and away from your foundation or structure, not to trap it in. This is especially important if you live near or on water, snow or if you live in a cold, humid, wet or moist climate.
** Warning: Living in a moldy environment can be Toxic! Living in a chemical filled environment can also be Toxic! Termites can be Toxic to wood!
Basic Popular Designs
Foundations, Formulas and Recommendations
Other Recommendations Concerning Construction and Foundations
Moisture/Vapor Barrier(s)
Damp Basement, Crawlspace and/or Foundation Solution(s)
Particle Barrier
Insect/Termite Barrier(s)
Frost Barrier(s)
*It is Important to Note: Adding a Moisture or Vapor Barrier can be a big plus to any home, building or structure depending on how and where it is added. At the same time, if a moisture barrier is misconstructed it could cause the same damage that you were trying to prevent. This mistake of not applying a moisture barrier properly or not at all, is very common in my opinion. Especially in structures that have had a Contractor apply Vinyl Siding to Wood Framed homes or buildings... As most Contractors do not apply moisture barriers unless you are watching, though many probably have charged for the installation of one they did not install. While many Contractors really have no real idea how to install one properly, if they even know what it is. The idea is to keep moisture out and away from your foundation or structure, not to trap it in. This is especially important if you live near or on water, snow or if you live in a cold, humid, wet or moist climate.
** Warning: Living in a moldy environment can be Toxic! Living in a chemical filled environment can also be Toxic! Termites can be Toxic to wood!
Some common hybrid holistic sustainability concepts, technology and techniques when applied properly in Earthen Construction may call for a little skill, time, research and/or possibly even an expert at some point; if your attempting to DIY. Depending on the building codes in y(our) area, the space, the project, time, your level of skill and understanding,.... For example: Grey water recycling and or the conversion of solar energy
* Some of the advantages or benefits of Hybrid Construction where sustainability is concerned.
- Effective passive solar design through combining both thermal mass with good insulation that is appropriate for the conditions of the climate or weather area.
- Different wall systems have different acoustics, R factors and thicknesses due to the materials used. It may be better in a small shelter to divide it with a thinner wall system that has small openings through out such as unfinished wattle and daub that can breath or one could finish it or use light slip straw for privacy...
- Although it can all be smoothed out in the finishing stages. In the end, every wall system has it's own look and they all have many practical and aesthetic advantages. (not to mention providing more learning opportunities in workshops)
* Hybrid Structures have their own set of issues as well. As I have mentioned more than once, the first of which is moisture = rot and mold if not built properly. A proper foundation, roof, sealing and selection of materials used is very important. The second is where different wall systems, doors, windows,... are joined together. Not being tied in together properly. Especially in seismic zones. I am very experienced at problem solving.
4. It has resulted in a seemingly endless supply of new choices, concepts, equipment, innovations, materials, methods, processes, techniques, tools...
Some of which are discussed next few pages; though page 4 is dedicated to Hemp Construction Techniques which can be combined with other materials. Resulting in many Hybrid uses like Adobe.
Please, Allow me to Clarify once more, that Earthen Construction is not claiming responsibility for Constructing or Copy Rights for any of these Examples shown on this page(s). These are images found published in Commons and are only set here as examples of the type of Construction and Techniques I/we currently offer. Please See Our Gallery for some Examples of my/our work. Thank You!
All images are provided for educational purposes without profit and are linked to their original locations and you can click on that image to visit that site and/or to see more. Your Very Welcome! For the Free Advertising and Info. Abundant Blessings!
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