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I am looking for other canadian earthbaggers, or (anyone from similar cold climates) for discussion, maybe coming to see your project.
hey yoshhash, I am building in Cantley Qc next spring if you are close to me……
Pierre,
Are you looking to recruit some help?
I’m in Ottawa, and have a keen interest in learning the craft.
Hey brad you can contact me at pietru@gmail.com anytime
Hello yoshhash I am located in Picton Ont and am interested in exploring construction the earthship model using bags instead of old tire. Would the bags be suitable for this cold climate location? I know the tire system is supposed to be good insulator.
I am in the planning and testing stage of building an earthbag keyhole garden this spring. Most of the work will take place on the weekends once the thaw happens, hoping to be completed by mid May.
Hey I am located in Ontario and was hoping to gain some experience building earthbag dwellings in 2012. If anyone knows of any workshops or needs assistance with their home I would be glad to help.
Please email me if you hear of anything!
A little more about my Ottawa Project, It will be 16ft diameter circle with a keyhole and a spiral garden within the keyhole. The six inch wide concrete or lime stabilized wall will be built on a shallow rubble trench using bags stitched from old bed sheets The height will be about one to two feet and will be either painted with a petrified hessian type coating, or coated with an earthen plaster. If weather permits we are hoping to do the bulk of the work during the Easter long weekend and have it completed in time to transplant our seedlings in mid May.
It is a small project and represents my families first tangible step towards our goal of building our own earthbag home.
We would welcome a few volunteers, if your interested, and would also accept the donation of any of the supplies we don’t yet have, including
a wheel barrow, 1 -2 yards of reject sand or similar medium, 1/2 a yard of gravel, bags of portland cement or lime, bricks for the spiral garden, 1 yard of sandy clay, advice ect…..
Anyone interested please contact me here or email earthbagdreams AT gmail DOT com
My husband and I are thinking of doing one in northern Minnsesota. But we need help and would be willing to help anyone else. We have never built one before. Everything we have learned is through books and online blogs and resurch. Anyone got any ideas for us?
I’ll just briefly chime in. We always recommend starting out with something small and simple like a storage shed or guest house. There’s a learning curve to everything, and starting small is a low risk way of learning the techniques.
About a year ago, there were questions here about building in Michigan. I’m wondering how the builders managed to be Code-approved, or (considering the construction code is State law) how they managed to bypass it.
http://www.usgbc.org/
Go to this web site it has information about LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is redefining the way we think about the places where we live, work and learn. As an internationally recognized mark of excellence, LEED provides building owners and operators with a framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable green building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions. Lots of information on the new building code standards for Green Building. I found a Strwbale home in Minnesota that helped change things here so check out this site. May help you.
Just thought id post something a guy who did septic work told me he never saw anything go more than three feet into the ground from any septic system.
Look up watson wick,that is a setup i will use.
Greetings!
We are a traveling couple seeking earthbag building opportunities anywhere within the U.S., but especially in or around Washington, Oregon, and California.
If you or someone you know of could use two very friendly and enthusiastic workers on a current or upcoming project, we would love to be a part of your earthbag building process!
We are self-contained in our camper van and, therefor, will not necessarily be requesting any room and board. All we wish to receive in exchange for our labor is the learning experience itself.
We are additionally interested in opportunities to work with any of the following…
– traditional rammed earth
– underground shelter
– earthship construction
– rocket mass heating systems
– gravity-fed water filtration systems
– root cellar construction
…and may even be open to helping with other types of natural building projects as well.
Any help or guidance will be very much appreciated. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Chaya & Aiden
(951)526-5203
theroaringinsideher@riseup.net
ghostmetropolis@riseup.net
Hi There,
Kind of in the same situation than you.
Have a plot of land in south spain. Will try to build something summer 2012. Just in case you are around :) or come across somebody interested.
Good luck and lots of fun.
quemaoviejo.wordpress.com
thanks for including us in your thoughts and invitation. at this point, we don’t have plans to be in spain, but i’ll keep your project in mind in case i meet anyone who might be interested! (and JUST in case we happen to end up in your neighborhood! ;)
best wishes to you! <3
chaya
theroaringinsideher@riseup.net
Hello, We are near Tulum Mexico and are going to be starting our earthbag home in the next week or two if you can make it down here you are welcome also to vacat/work. Maybe we could all do a earthbag travel experience! Good Luck.
My name is Harvey Lacey. I am in north Texas. I’m the inventor of the Ubuntu-blox or recycled plastic block house.
In Haiti we are using tube material for our blocks. I need about 100 feet or so of tube material if anyone has surplus. I need that to make sample blocks for the stateside examples. There is an urgency.
@oharveylacey on twitter
Ubuntu-blox group on fb
harvey@harveylacey.com
992 442 3987
Harvey, have you seen this blog post on discount mesh tubing? https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2011/09/22/discount-raschel-mesh-tubing/
Maybe they would send you 100 ft sample. Or maybe you need the standard poly tubing.
Good deal on bags! I just ordered 500 brand new 18×30 “50 lb.” poly bags from White Bag Company, Inc., in North Little Rock, Arkansas, for 19 cents each! I plan to pick them up in person, so I don’t know what shipping costs are. Innpack quoted me 35 cents each, so I think I’m getting a good deal. The site is http://www.whitebag.com. They said they had no misprints for sale at the moment, though my friend got a couple hundred misprints from them last year.
That’s sounds almost too good to be true. Be sure to make one test earthbag before buying. Fill with moist soil and tamp hard.
I have just under 3000 misprinted polypropylene rice bags that I need to sell. I just had them delivered from NYP Corporation this week. I have had a change of plans and no longer need them. This is by far the best price I have found after searching numerous bag companies for quite a while. Total price is $ 530 for 2941 bags ( .18 cents / bag) plus shipping costs to your location. My shipping was $ 175 from PA to TX. These bags are being stored in an enclosed location away form weather and sunlight.
Have you made a test earthbag to be sure they are strong?
Hi,
I live in Southern Oklahoma and am interested in your bags. If you still have them, where are you located? I would like to just pick them up and save an shipping.
Thanks,
Brady
I also live in Oklahoma and am looking for someone who has started a project locally so I can get some hands on experience. I would be willing to help you out for a few days for free as an opportunity to work with the bags. I have the book and video, but no hands-on experience.
Hello,
I was just curious to see if the interiors get damp and dank with the limestone concrete and clay in the bags. While I like the idea of earthbag houses, I imagine the interiors feeling like an unfinished basement.
That can happen in extreme circumstances. That’s why we used earthen plaster on the inside of our roundhouse and added lots of windows. What you’re describing is more likely to happen with domes that are limited to how many windows can be added. That’s one reason I’m more in favor of vertical walls.
A friend recently asked me about the feasibility of buying an abandoned mine site in Northern Nevada. On it’s face it looked great – 600 acres, year round water, remote, inexpensive – with several old shafts and tunnels for storage and other possible uses.
But as I advised him; I thought I would tell you all. Part of my job is to advise my clients whether a property they wish to purchase is “environmentally clean” that is to say – has it ever been subject to the use, storage, or transportation of hazardous materials. A simple Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is the tool we use to determine this. This is a combination of (normally) a site inspection, and a data base search of various RCRA (fed and state hazardous materials) databases to tell us if the property is likely, or known, to have had these materials on it.
As I advised my friend – with a mine site it may be the case that if the former owner or manager of the mine cannot be located; and a site of contamination is found – the EPA can order the current owner to mitigate and cleanup the site. If the condition affects groundwater (as it frequently does) this cleanup can run into the millions of dollars. The moral of the story – investigate the property well. Know the past uses of the property to avoid future liability. The best way to do this cheaply is to get a Phase I ESA performed ( or at the very least contact me and I will tell you how to order what’s called an EDR report) for yourself. The EDR report in itself is pretty cheap (around $300) and can be deciphered by most people to determine if Haz materials were a factor on their subject property. Where it is a bit more costly and usually essential to have an environmental scientist like myself involved is if a loan company wants to be sure the property is clean before they loan – so they make it a requirement that the environmental findings are certified by a professional.
Another note – I would also counsel you all to be careful of any property that has ANY easements on it (or adjacent). The government (local, state, and Feds) have the right to enter ANY property WITHOUT your permission if they have a utility easement. This means they can come onto YOUR property to “look around” anytime they choose if they have an easement. Once on the property – they can then note and report any “unusual” or illegal structures or activities. This is yet another way they can violate your private property.
Hello,
I will build the small earthbag house in north of Thailand.
I cannot find any (on the internet) talk about how to built(in detail) the toilet, installing the outlet, wiring, piping. .
Any suggestion?
Thank you,
Jik
99% of plumbing and electrical are the same as other types of construction. Get some books from the library or buy “mini guides” from building supply centers. All you need are the basics.
My Earthbag Building Guide covers the special information you need (the other 1%) — how to mountain electrical boxes to earthbag walls, etc. http://www.earthbagbuilding.com/articles/ebbuildingguide.htm
It would seem to me that FREE discarded polystyrene foam could be pushed and rubbed through 3/8″ metal hardware cloth to produce small foam particles. Add dry FREE sawdust from a sawmill (to fill the tiny spaces beteeen the foam pellets)and you would have a very high R rating mixture to fill FREE plastic shopping bags which could be sealed. The bags could be sold for in-wall new construction or below ground foundation insulation.
Would this mixture violate any fire prevention regulations anywhere? Would a chemical fire retardent have to be mixed in?
If not- this would be a great styyrofoam collection project for schoolkids, churches, etc.
All the materials are FREE and look at how you can undercut the price of polystyrene foam board with the same R value.
Mike
misterfact@yahoo.com
It should work if you use earthbags (typically polypropylene sand bags) and keep the bags dry with 2-3 layers of 6 mil plastic sheeting on the exterior. Put one sheet against the outside of the wall, then backfill about 2-3 feet of soil, then add another layer to direct water away from the wall. Build on high ground and slope the ground so water flows away from the building.
It’s almost impossible to gain code approval for ideas like this. New products require extensive testing in government approved labs. Total testing cost is probably in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
To avoid all that government expense, probably best if the filled bags are not sold and marketed as home insulation. Just let the buyer (homeowner, builder) figure out or find out by word of mouth- what they are for and how to use them
Mike
Greetings Owen, watching and following yours and those who promote earthbag building , has convinced me to build in a remote location in Mississippi.My concern has hit something of a stumbling block.When attempting to build in stages,how would you add a new room to an existing earthbag structure .Your running bond wont be present between the two rooms,how would you join the two and keep a sound structure.Here in MS its not unheard of for settling to produce cracks in concrete. I worry that without a firm hold between the old and new,the wall would open up where they meet.I read your building guide and don,t see this addressed. respectfully Jim in MS
You can build stepped buttresses where you plan to build the addition. You can leave some rebar protruding from the bond beam to tie into the addition. You can also pound rebar at an angle from the new bags into the old bags as you build the addition.
Greeting Earthbuilders!!
Just want to introduce and connect with you all here…..check out our fan page on face book: Bonita Domes Project. We’re working on an off fb blog/website ….coming soon!!
Anyway, We still need to finish bagging our Triple Dome 1000sqft structure…just about over all the window forms….and we appreciate an extra hand and feed all our participants damn good Earthbuilding food.
Check us out and see if our Holistic approach to Earthbag building resonates with you!
with Gratitude and Love,
Lisa
bonitadomes@att.net
Lisa, we would love to feature your project on our blog. Can you send us a little more information? Or maybe you want to wait until your website is finished.
I love you Lisa!!! See you guys soon!
Yahmes – James
Hey Owen,
Well, our fan page on facebook is full motion and has been for over a year since we began building but, I’m in process of populating the website via word press. So, we would love to be featured on your blog…anytime. Great motivation to get the blog plubished. Let me know what information you would like*** In the mean time here is the url for our fan page. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bonita-Domes-Project/131821026865069
Thank you for creating and managing this Earthbag Building forum….nice job integrating “sharing and promoting”!!
Lisa, what is the price range? The way you wrote it is confusing. I think that’s all I need.
Hey Owen,
I think this covers it****Thank you!!
Lisa
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
At this time we are continuing our Volunteer Community Building program. From now until December 17, 2011 is the last BIG PUSH for building with our hired crew. If you would like to participate, email contact is bonitadomes@att.net. We’re building as weather permits so, we could be bagging, plastering or painting. ****Everyday is a BONITA surprise****
As our Volunteer Community Building program continues we are also creatively seeking funding that would support and feed an expanded labor force.
2-7 day hands-on classes and workshop and retreats are now forming slated to begin Feburary 2012. Cost: $25-$300
Includes work day community meal , tent or dome camping, hot shower, kitchen facilities, wifi and living within a sturctured community model
Learn and get hands on experience
Depending on the scope of the project one or more of the following aspects will be presented per class/workshop/retreat.
*plaster
*natural finishes
*earthen floors
*form building
*owner-builder how to’s
*community building
Includes work day community meal , tent or dome camping, hot shower, kitchen facilities, wifi and living within a sturctured community model.
Website Address is http://www.bonitadomes.wordpress.com
In the meantime, if you want to try some really good eats and experience a profound sense of community and learn about Earthbag Building……you know how to find us!!!
To stay posted on our progess visit our fanpage on facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bonita-Domes-Project/131821026865069
I am building a 600 square foot earthbag cabin around the Tulsa, Oklahoma area Summer 2011 and while I have some very enthusiastic friends to help (I hope) none of us has any experience at this. I’m looking for someone that might be in that area during that time that might be willing to hire out to help us. If interested please contact me marlawscc@yahoo.com. I’m not rich so don’t bother trying to quote contractor pricing.
Hi. I am planning to build a home in Bahia, Brazil near the coast between Ilheus and Itacare. I would like to begin building sometime second half of 2012. I would love help with someone experienced in earth bag building for design and planning, and construction. Plenty of locals to provide help with labor.
Thank you.
Oi Ana,
Your project sounds great and I might be able to come down and help during that time. Can you email me and send me a bit more info? Also, check out my blog if you like.
Thanks,
Alyssa
Hi Brady,
Yes they are still available. I am located in Kerrville, TX. Let me know. Thanks.
bwilliams,
What size are they, and do you know what the shipping would be to Atoka, OK, 74525. Your about 8 hours from my place and it may be easier to just ship them.
Thanks,
Brady
Brady,
They are 18 x 30 50 # bags. I will check on the shipping to your location and let you know. Thanks.
Hello
I was wondering how easy it would be to combine the
Solar Pit House
and the
Zero Energy Four
http://www.earthbagbuilding.com/plans/zeroenergy4.htm
My wife and I like the size and the Greenhouse of the Zero Energy Four but we love the Earth-bearmed approach to the Solar Pit house.
Since we live in an area that is susceptible to Tornados and Hurricanes we want to go the Earth-bearmed route for safety from wind, hail, and flooding as well as for increased energy Efficiency. We have even toyed with the idea of having Roll-up doors like you see on a Garage/Metal Building mounted above the Greenhouse windows so that with a push of a button you could completely secure the shelter from most storms.
We love the Root Cellar as well. The cisterns would be great on helping with water for the Garden.
We think the 2nd Bathroom needs to be at the right end of the house. This would provide additional protection /buffer for the 3 bedrooms beside it. We also think there needs to be a hallway (preferably in the back of the house) going to that bathroom so that you do not have to go into the greenhouse to go to the bathroom. With that said the convenience of being able to go to the bathroom from the Greenhouse and not have to track in dirt/pollen from the Greenhouse to use the bathroom would be nice and to have this option the Hallway would have to be located on the front of the house. Maybe you could use an enclosed hallway with a solid Earth-bag wall between the Greenhouse and the Hallway to protect people using this hallway.
Thanks you so much for the great work. You have inspired the entire family.
Mike and Del
Yes, you can earth berm the sides of the house, no problem. I already have a custom version of Zero Energy Four with the hallway and extra bath behind the four bedrooms. Just email me and we can talk it over. strawhouses [at] yahoo.com
Brady,
Will I be shipping to your residence or do you have a commercial address I can ship to. It makes quite a bit of difference in the shipping price with shipping to a commercial address being cheaper?
bwilliams,
My wife has a gym a mile from my house, I could pick them up there with my tractor if needed. To answer you question, if it needed to be delivered to her gym, we could do that. It is on a major 4 lane highway.
Brady,
Sorry I just noticed your previous message and for some reason I didn’t get notified of it on my email like before. Anyway if you would like one of the commercial delivery quotes I sent to you let me now along with the address and date you want them sent. You can email me directly at docbrian70@gmail.com or call me at 512-786-0020 to discuss payment and any further details. Thanks.
Any particular tips or resources for building earth bag homes in the tropics? I am planning to build a natural home in the caribbean and need suggestions. Can bamboo and earth bags be used together in a structure? Looking for lowest cost, most local resources, low tech. Love this website thanks to all for the advice!!
We have hundreds of pages of free information on every topic. This includes this blog, EarthbagBuilding.com and other sites. Use the excellent built-in search engines. Here are some of the best articles on building in hot, humid climates: http://www.earthbagbuilding.com/articles.htm#climate
bonjour tous le monde
et merci pour ces informations très utile .
je voudrais savoir si ces dôme erthbag ont une limite grandeur de diamètre et hauteur ou non ? et j’ai su qu’il sont thermique .. mais si il fait chaud a l’extérieur de par exemple 40 degrés a l’ombre , pourra t’elle supporté cette chaleur ? comment serra son atmosphère a l’intérieur ?
et encore merci pour tous ces gents qui on fait de très belle effort pour nous faire naître ce nouveau habitat.
Hello Everyone,
and thank you for this information very useful.
I wonder if earthbag domes have a limit size of diameter and height or not? and I knew that it is heat .. but if it’s hot outside, for example 40 degrees in the shade, can you it supported this heat? how to reduce the temperature inside?
and thank you again for all the gents who are made of very fine effort to make us rise to this new habitat.
The maximum dome size is somewhere around 20-25 feet in diameter, depending on your dome building skills. The largest dome so far is the Om Dome in Thailand: http://www.earthbagbuilding.com/projects/omdome.htm
You can read the article and see how they had problems because the courses were not placed perfectly.
Domes work great in desert regions where nighttime temperatures cool down. But they don’t work as well in tropical areas where it’s hot and humid all the time. You can only add so many windows without affecting the strength and so it’s difficult to get sufficient ventilation. And domes are more vulnerable to water damage than roofed structures. For these reasons, buildings with roofs work better in tropical climates. My roundhouse, for instance, works perfectly. It’s 8 C or 15 F degrees cooler inside than out. Roundhouses are faster and easier to build than domes. See: http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Build-an-Earthbag-Roundhouse/
merci pour ces information . j’ai choisi les dôme car c’est plus respectable dans notre région (TUNISIE°. .. et tant qu’il serrai habitable et respectable j’aurai plus de chance a convaincre les ” sans abris ou les pauvres a ”’ce faire des dôme ..
Hi Brady,
I haven’t heard back from you regarding a commercial vs residential address on your end to ship to so I’ll give you the best quotes I have for both residential and commercial. UPS Residential delivery ( 4 days transit) = $ 360.17. Commercial delivery = $ 262.74. Saia Residential delivery ( 1 day transit) =
$ 368.79. Commercial delivery = $ 278.79. These quotes are for pickup on 1/2/12. Please let me know as soon as you can.
Hello Everyone,
I am in the very beginning stages of planning an earthbag build. I bought a few books, the two that are out, Kaki Hunter’s and Owen Geiger’s plus his video.
I have begun building a small clay model just to get an idea of what seems possible.
I am no stranger to hard work, and look forward to building in the not too distant future. Spring/Summer of 2013, figure it would take a year or so to plan, which seems like it’s the most important part.
My wife and I with our two daughters, (3 1/2 & 1 1/2) are looking for the “ideal” spot in the catskills NY. I am in Norther NJ.
My big concern is Building Codes for earthbag structures. When we do finally purchase some land I know you just cant begin building, or can you, considering it is an alternative style?
Does anyone have any insight into this.
I would hate to put a years worth of planning and dreaming only to find out a municipality says no.
Thanks for the advice.
Ron R.
I also have some questions on climate, but I will save them for future posts.
Thanks again
We always recommend researching local code issues before going too far. There’s a huge difference in codes from region to region. Read out blog post about Counties with Few or No Building Codes
You can get an engineer’s stamp from Precision Structural Engineering, Inc. Search this blog for details and write for a free quote: http://www.structure1.com
Some rural and ag areas only apply building code on parcels of a certain size. In Cedar County, IA where we live, and which is largely agricultural, building permits were not required for us to build our house because we own more than 40 acres. (State code for electrical and water still applied of course.) Something to consider asking about…hope it helps.
While they’re not licensed in every State, New York does seem to be one of the States where Precision Structural Engineering is licensed.
http://www.structure1.com/html/thecompany.htm
(I was disappointed, when I discovered they’re not licensed in Michigan, and I have yet to locate an engineering firm that both is licensed in Michigan, and is willing to do design work for earthbag structures.)
The construction code for New York State is here:
http://www.dos.state.ny.us/DCEA/
This is useful, as the State of New York allows one to read the code online for free. Here in Michigan, I had to pay textbook prices to get a copy.
PSE has exchange agreements with other engineering firms. Ask them about Michigan. I’m guessing they know someone who will work with them.
Thank you fred. This is my first time using a site to post questions. I am grateful for your help.
Thank you Owen for your advice. Looked at PSE site. It’s a step in the right direction. Seems the best thing to do after writing to them for quote is to begin calling counties In ny state and ask what they require code wise for earthbag structures.
Thanks again.
Ron
Greetings,
I am in the beginning stages of helping my son build an earthbag home. We have decided a practice run at building a earthbag storage shed would not be a bad idea since neither of us have done this work before. We have looked at several roof designs and would like to put in a round tin roof. I have seen many people including a video Owen did in Thailand with a similar thatched roof. My questions involves the compression ring at the apex of the roof. As I am familiar with yurts, I know that this needs to be incredibly strong. I would prefer a metal ring on this structure as I do have to contend with the occasional hurricane as well as the occasional heavy snow fall. Can you recommend where to find such an item or is this a custom build?
Thanks again for your time.
Greg
The one on our roundhouse worked fine, but it’s a bit complicated for some. Here’s a simplified version: https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2011/11/17/new-compression-ring-design/
You could also use a section of culvert pipe cut to the right length. Be sure to choose a large enough diameter so all the wood fits.
Greetings,
My husband and I are considering building a Sandbag home in northern Minnesota. Is this a good idea? What may be some of the problems we may encounter? Our plan is to be heated by wood. We heard one was built in the Canadian Rockies. Thank you and God bless, CarolAnn
Earthbag houses are built all over the world. People use all sorts of different materials and methods by adapting to local conditions. A guy in Thailand built with bags of rice hulls. People in the desert use sand. People in cold climates need to build insulated earthbags: http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Build-an-Insulated-Earthbag-House/
Does anyone know if Park City, Utah allows for earthbag construction?
Thanks,
Kimon Haramis
LB, CA
See if they have a website. Most counties put their regulations online. If necessary, they will approve earthbag with an engineer’s stamp.
I live nearby – but have not heard of any EB homes in the area. Would be interesting to find out. I am up there from time to time in my business. If you don’t get an answer from their website I would probably be able to get an answer in person – I work with many of the Planners in my business as a consulting Planner and Environmental Permitting specialist. Keep me posted on your success and I will help you as I can.
i want to visit some earthbag homes in New Mexico or Pueblo Colorado area instead of having to go to California site. Any suggestions?
Let’s hope someone in the area contacts you. Most prefer anonymity to avoid lots of strangers coming to their home.
I am from the island of Dominica in the Eastern Caribbean. Dominica is famous as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean” because of the largely pristine condition of its natural environment, its 365 rivers, many though under severe environmental pressure, are as pure crystal streams.
I belong to an organization called the Waitukubuli Ecological Foundation (WEF) and our aim is to extend our ambition to become known as “nature island of the world” and to specialize as a small island nation in a natural economy in which natural building would be a significant component.
The opportunity has arisen for me to build a dwelling house for myself and I have decided to build with earthbags, a living roof and a earth floor. There is only one other earthbag building in the island and we think that this would present an opportunity to broaden knowledge and interest in this exciting form of construction. The island has been experiencing severe economic conditions with youth unemployment a particularly difficult problem to solve. And with it goes a severe housing problem especially among the young. We think that earthbag building can contribute to a solution.
I would welcome the opportunity for networking and would be grateful for any assistance or advice that may be available at present, and we would be particularly interested in any volunteers who would like to help us while visiting the Caribbean.
Hello Bernard,
Email me at strawhouses [at] yahoo.com and we can discuss your situation.
Hi Owen,
Firstly thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge with the world, it is greatly appreciated. My name is Tom Burgess, i will be co-ordinating the Earthbag build for Bernard Wiltshire in Dominica. We are looking for any interested persons who would like to be involved in the project, which we are hoping to start early in March. Dominica is a very unique and beautiful island in the Caribbean, and this project could certainly offer a fantastic opportunity to anyone looking for hands on experience in Earthbag construction.
You are welcome to contact myself or Bernard regarding the details of this project, and please feel free to point any interested persons in our direction!
Many thanks
Tom.
This sounds like a great way for people to get some hands-on experience.
Tom, email me at strawhouses [at] yahoo.com and we can talk.
I am looking for a great project to devote my time and energy to. I love to volunteer on building where I can continue my education in this amazing art.
I am 27 years old, fit, smart and totally excited about this style of building and willing to travel anywhere in the world to volunteer and continue me education!
I think that your focus on alternative building in Dominca is exactly what future generations all over the world need to free themselves from environmental and economical hardships that face us. I would love to talk to you about your goals and see if I can be any help with your project!
Thank you for your time!
-Adam H.
Hi Adam,
My name is Tom Burgess, i will be co-ordinating the Earthbag build for Bernard Wiltshire in Dominica. Please feel free to contact me regarding the project, or any other relevant issues you might want to discuss. I am looking forward to the project, which will be the third Earthbag construction that i have managed here on the beautiful island of Dominica. We would be very happy to receive you for the duration of the project which we (roughly) estimate being a 6 month build. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.
Thanks
Tom.
I am excited to find such a plethora if information in one consolidated site! We have been given land to build on by in-laws. That being said, we also have 7 children to consider when building. We will be doing a rammed earth home and I just have to say finding out about structure1 has abated some fears. Although it looks like my county (lexington) here in south carolina, has a looselly worded clause that allows for building with “new technologies\” that promote saving energy, and material in addition to approving recycled material as well on, a case by case situation. Anyone in the state of South Carolina that has any useful information would be appreciated.
Thanks Owen..and everyone else.
Best Regards,
Courtney Bradley
Courtney or Jonathan Bradley @ facebook
By far the main thing is getting an engineer to stamp the plans. That’s 99.9% of the process. With an engineer’s stamp, there’s virtually no way they can stop you from building.
I am planning an earthbag house in Kenya and would be interested to have a shared experience of those who have done similar houses in Kenya especially where to obtain the earth bags.
Would used cement bags do the job or it has to be constructed from manilla bags. What are the constrains in interior/exterior plastering/finishes and the climate effect on those that are dome shaped
I would appreciate if someone shared the floor plan layout for a two bedroom house with all internal plumbing and natural light arrangement/window opening sizes etc.
The bag material is the same as sand bags. Sometimes cement bags are made the same, but not always. Make a sample earthbag with moist soil and test it out by tamping the bag really hard. The bag should not break. The soil should dry very hard.
Hi everyone,
We are in the final stages of the design phase of an earthbag house, in Maun Botswana. We have plenty of Kalahari sand on a 167 hectare farm that we are about to develop too.
The plan is to build 2 staff houses, 2 roundhouses and then a main house – all under thatch. Summer temps are very warm +40C and winter night temps very cold -6C.
My partner suffers from the cold a lot and I am looking for ideas for underfloor heating using solar heated water and 1/2inch PET pipe(comes in 1000ft rolls) This heating will be on an earth floor. I also want to try to use a Rocket Heating unit to assist in heating. So I am looking for ideas.
We are hoping to use as much solar as possible to run the house. I have looked into solar for center pivots and drip and the amount of power I require would use about 5 hectares of panels – not cost effective.
Earth bags are to be filled with a mix of sand, calcrete, and hydrated lime. Plaster and floor to be finished with cattle dung, elephant dung – Have to collect, abandon termite mound clay, and sand. Any comments/thoughts. I am not concerned about the termite mounds as they have been abandoned for a while.
Foundations are going to be 750mm deep and backfilled with crushed gravel. We are hoping that aside form the bags, this is the only thing needed to be purchased for construction. Roof trusses will be treated gum poles and then thatched with 300mm deep grass.
I have been devouring all the books and articles I can find on construction using this method. It is interesting that most people I talk to about this, nearly fall over laughing and the general comment is —— Are you stupid or just nuts.
Any suggestions/comments or help would be appreciated and I will post photos and videos as we progress
Let’s see who is laughing when your roundhouse costs a fraction of typical houses. Give a little dose of reality.
Sounds like you’ve got it pretty well figured out. I assume you’ll build a ceiling and add lots of roof insulation. Choose something that won’t attract rodents or other pests like termites. Do you have porous volcanic rock like scoria? Consider mesh tubes instead of standard poly bags for speed and ease of plastering. Lower courses could be scoria bags to insulate at the frost line. It’s fairly easy to install radiant floor heating. Hook up a water jacket to the rocket stove and add a circulating pump so the floor is always warm in winter. Be sure to insulate under the slab so all the heat radiates up into the room. Calculate your roof overhangs for solar design so summer sun is blocked and winter sun penetrates into the home.
Did you know you can post your project on our Bulletin Board (see top of page)? You might get some volunteers. Keep us posted and feel free to ask questions. Maybe we can help.
Hi Owen, No ceilings except over the walk in pantry which is basically to keep out the bugs. because we are 40kms to the nearest town, groceries are going to have to be bought in bulk. From the floor to the top of the roof is 6 meters. Sorry we are using 50kg Fertilizer/feed bags which means that our walls at the end of the day are going to be 600mm thick. However, the walls are only going to 2.15m.
Unfortunately there is no scoria in the area.
I am hoping to kick off the project in march with the 1st small cottage/roundhouse. I am hoping it can have it finished and complete to move into in less than 4 months as we will be living in tents in the beginning. The problem is the thatching is only available at certain times of the year which is June. So we will be waiting on a lot of things until then. Fortunately the rains stop in March and maybe I can get everything else done and wait for the thatching to finish.
Hi Gerry. That means all the hot air will rise up to the roof and it will be more difficult to stay warm. Why can’t you add a ceiling? Even a lightweight ceiling of bamboo mat would keep the warm air down at body height. You could do this by making a drop grid ceiling.
Wider bags are more work, but they will help keep your house warm in winter and cool in summer. Are you going to get some workers to help out? One or two strong workers will really speed things up.
Owen, it looks like I will be running around like a chicken without its head for a while. We also have to clear the land, install the irrigation and get 2 crops in. So yes I am hoping that I will have about 8 unskilled laborers helping on this project. So there will be a lot of time spent running between the projects.
I think that once I have the labor trained, I dont want them to stop and have to retrain them in the laying of earthbags. So maybe we will just get all the walls up and the roof trusses on and get the floor roughed in until the thatching is ready
Your point on the ceilings is taken. However, our cold winter temperatures are only for about 10 weeks and it is mainly at night. Daytime temps are around 24C in winter. Our summer temps of between 40 and 45C means whatever hot air I have, i want it vented somehow. Thatching without ceilings in this part of Africa has always been done without ceiling.
The walk in pantry is something that I have been thinking about as we want to try to keep this as cool as possible and it is a place where a solar geyser for the kitchen area is going (panel outside) I have been thinking of a set of joists and then earthbags on the joists which will help keep everything cool.
The idea behind the houses and the farm is to be as eco-friendly as possible while teaching others that there are alternative ways to farming and sustainable agriculture
Hello Earthbaggers
I am really keen to build an earth dome in Coffs Harbour area in NSW as have land up there for it. Wondering if there are any Australian alternative builders who have a project on and could do with an extra set of hands or would like to get in on my one.
Look forward to hearing from you
Hello everyone!! I’m extremely keen to volunteer on an Earth Dome project to gain more experience in this amazing art form! Please email me anytime at aus.machen(at)gmail(dot)com
I am willing to travel to most places in the world to work! I have experience with many types of buildings as well as plumbing, electrical, and flooring! I am super excited and passionate about this. Please let me know if you need a hand!
We would be delighted if you could assist us in Dominica. You would be very welcome indeed. We hope to begin sometime in February if we can get the earthbags here on time. We have been trying to source the cheapest bags and we would appreciate any helpful information on where we can get them.
Unfortunately, only one of us has had any experience with earthbag construction, so there is going to be a steep learning curve.
This project should be very interesting indeed, because it will be accompanied by some publicity in an attempt to popularize the notion around the island. What we are trying to do is to combine comfort with consciousness of the need limits of such comfort in the era of climate change, but to still achieve something that the ordinary person can relate to.
I will be in touch again as our plans become more concrete
Bernard Wiltshire
I’m very interested in what you’re doing there. I’ve never been to Dominica but it looks and sounds amazing. I saw 2 earth bag dome project on the east cost of Malaysia in October and it was really great to see! I feel that Dominica could be a great place to promote the concept or earth bag domes and get feedback from the public. Word spreads very quickly on a small island. I would imagine the majority of people there would be very open and interested in these building techniques. It would provide even the poorest people ultra secure housing for a lifetime.
Sourcing the cheapest bags in Dominica is going to be an interesting challenge. I will do some searching and see if I can stumble on anything. No guarantees though.
What about volunteering in Dominica? As a US citizen I believe I’m only allowed a 30 day tourist visa. Do you know of any other volunteering or work visa options that would allow people working on the project to become more involved and stay for longer?
I look forward to talking to you more in the coming weeks and discussing possible opportunities! Feel free to email me directly at aus.machen(at)gmail.com, maybe we can Skype or something at some point!
Take care!
Adam, Our plans are nearing completion. Our projected construction start date is March. I am not yet able to give a specific day. You would be most welcome to come to Dominica, I can arrange your accommodation. We think the house will take about 5 months to complete. I will send you a copy of the plan soon.
my colleagues and I look forward to seeing you. This could be a most interesting and rewarding exercise.
We are hoping that Owen will help us with advice or any other subscriber to the blog. We have kept the plan simple, since we do not have the experience in this island of such construction, so the walls are virtually all vertical with few rounded shapes which we thought might be more complicated to handle.
We are trying to source the bags. if you have been able to identify a reasonably cheap source please let me know
looking forward
Try these guys: Discount Mesh Tubing https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2011/09/22/discount-raschel-mesh-tubing/
Hello, I am currently living in Arkansas and seeking some type of internship or similar experience (my labor in exchange for learning how to build).
What I most want to learn is: Earthbag, earthship, and other sustainable building methods, permaculture and organic farming, construction basics involved, renewable energy systems installation, composting toilets and water collection and distribution systems, and I am open to a variety of realated things, such as having experience in an intentional community. Also, I greatly look forward simply to working with other like-minded people!
I have been searching online and most of the internships that I see require too much money for me at this point, it would probably take most of my money simply to travel to whatever location. I do have a car that gets good mpg and I can make due with sleeping in my car or perhaps I can get a tent, but I guess I would be in need of some type of bathroom facilities. If there were any room and board opportunities I would gladly take them, but I can figure out a way to make due without. I am seeking opportunities primarily in the US and Canada, because I probably couldn’t afford to fly anywhere overseas, unless circumstances were just right. If there was a way for me to live in a tent while there, then I might be able to save up enough money to travel overseas or to South America. I don’t have much to offer but my labor, but I want to gain these skills and utilize them towards building a better future for mankind. This is something I have wanted to do for a long time, and I have decided to finally act on it.
I have basically no experience, up until this point I have been a student. I have never worked with construction, carpentry, I do have a little bit of gardening experience, but that’s just about it. However, I am enthusiastic about learning all of these things, which is why I am seeking this type of opportunity in the first place!
I am flexible about when this happens, if the opportunity is not until the spring or summer, that might be best because it gives me time to work and save money, but if it were immediate and feasible, I would go right now!
If anyone has any project or even just knows of any internships that seem like they would fit my needs, I would love to hear about it. The best way to contact me is to email me at rileyiley AT gmail.com, or I suppose you can respond to this comment and it will probably notify me via email.
Thanks!
-Riley
Riley, most people that could be of help probably won’t see this page. It’s just one small bulletin board on the vast Internet. I suggest seeking out the projects you’re interested through searching the Internet and then volunteering to help. I’m sure lots of people would love to have some help.
I am in the same boat as you are Riley, I would love some experience before I purchase and start building willy-nilly. I Live in Tulsa, OK, so if you find somewhere in the midwest that is starting a project let me know and I will see you there.
Riley you might consider joining WWOOF – it’s just what you describe. Labor for learning on organic farms all over the world but also invites folks like us who are looking for people to help with sustainable building projects and other on-farm or on-acreage projects. There is NO money exchanged – just a half-day’s work for room and board. (Of course, a half day on an organic farm might not be what it is elsewhere…) Just do a search on it and you can learn a lot before joining, plus joining is incredibly cheap (the $5 to $10 range I believe…)
Hello there.
I am sending this to commend your works on responding to the very basic human need of shelter through an environmentally sound manner: earth bag home construction. Living in the Philippines, I share that aspiration too and dream of building a home someday without being overwhelmed by the cost and environmental impact of my dream.
I hope you can share your technology and expertise here as well (given that reading it from the web wont be the same as seeing and learning from the actual thing).
Hope to hear from you soon.
Donna
@ Owen Geiger
Are there any Earthbag Internships scheduled in the near future that I don’t know about? Seems like there are a lot of eager hands ready to work but nothing to work on with you…
No projects are planned in the near future. I live in a remote area that’s half a world away from most people. The airfare alone can cost more than taking several local training courses. Plus, we’ve used up all available space on our land. There are lots of good groups offering workshops now. You could also locate some volunteer work/trade projects near you.
Jeremy, in case you didn’t see my post (still learning how this system works) I wanted you to know we’re hosting a workshop in eastern Iowa June 26-July 1 run by Cal-Earth journeymen instructors. Contact me at suzan@lastdraft.com for more information.
I want to thank Owen for this great blog – Cal-Earth has one for all its graduates but this is supplementing what we’ve learned about earth bag construction very nicely.
The Cal-Earth forum is horrible and moderated (when people post, which is maybe once every 6 months) by people who know next to nothing about building or have not built since before Nader was alive. It’s unfortunate and dangerous. I love Nader and his work and am incredibly thankful for all the prosperity and joy it has brought to my life, but Cal-Earth he is not. Suzan, who is running the workshop you speak of? I have been looking to find some of the old apprentices who have been ‘blacklisted’ by the new Cal-Earth profit machine so we can continue to build our network of builders and collaborate on future community projects.
Well, James, the blog didn’t allow me to reply to you, so i’m replying just above you. I wasn’t aware of the internal politics of former and current grads of Cal-Earth – all I know is that I’ve got a guy who did his 6 months there and was there when my husband and I were, whom we liked and who was a good worker and easy to get along with, who happens to also be a mechanical engineer as well as a race car driver (talk about varied life experience!) who is going off on his own to do earth bag workshops his way and make them affordable at $900 for 6 days with as many as 3 instructors for 20 people. His name is Erik Ven – likely you don’t know him, but he’s also a poet and is translating Rumi into his native Hungarian so seems like a sincere follower to me. I haven’t found the forum particularly useful either, but I know Erik will be using it to get the word out about the workshops he already has scheduled, so you’ll be able to find him there. We don’t live in the Southwest and don’t have the advantages of the weather or network down there, so we’re very thankful for someone with his knowledge willing to come to the Midwest and make this affordable for those of us who’d like to learn it here.
Working on developing an Earthbag build child rescue center. Looking for volunteers with and without experience willing come down for at least a month at soon at Fall 2012. We would provide room and board. Email if interested in more information.
I am located In western Honduras http://www.goodwinsonthego.com
Hi Melissa,
This sounds really interesting. If you would like to discuss teaming up, please get in touch with Earthen Hand via our website.
Bless!
MAJORS WAY Earthbag Home & Garden Tours
Date: MARCH 10, MARCH 24
Time: 9:00am-11:30am
Address: 12711 Ventris Road, Garfield, AR 72732
Costs: Adults $8, Children free under 12
Call or text: 479-409-9115
Email: majorsway@ymail.com
Facebook: LisaMajors
Topics Cover:
Earthbag Home Construction
Permits, Designs, Costs
Rocket Stove Heating System
Incorporating Recycled & Unwanted Materials-Tires, Bottles, Cans
Natural Building Resources-Clay, Rock, Cedar
Adobe/Cob & Lime Stuccos
Gardening Techniques, Soil Building
Hi!!!
I live in Germany in an old house that is extremely hard and expensive to keep warm in the winter. I want to build a couple of inexpensive Cob style closed fireplaces to warm it up. Can anyone direct me to some websites that have this kind of stuff?
Most fireplaces are not energy efficient. They lose more heat than they produce. Search our site for low cost wood stoves that can be made from barrels, kegs, pipe and other recycled materials.
I meant something like this. http://www.grundofen.de/index.php/ofen-selber-bauen.html
How does one “seal
‘ / close the bag after it i has been filled?
When you leave a question you have to choose a topic that’s related. The Bulletin Board is for announcements. Use the search engine to find a related topic. I just entered the search phrase closing bags in our search box above and found numerous results such as this: https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2011/06/19/%e2%80%98envelope%e2%80%99-bag-closing-technique/ and this https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2010/02/05/closing-ends-of-earthbags/
I’ll delete this comment in 1-2 days so we don’t clutter the comment section.
Hi everyone,
We are organizing an earthbag building workshop for February 2013 and are looking for an experienced builder/workshop leader to come teach the basics and assist in the construction of our first earthbag building.
We run a rustic yoga center and sustainable living project in southern Costa Rica. You would stay with us free of charge for the week, food and yoga included, and we can arrange profit sharing of the course tuition.
If interested, please contact us at theyogafarm@gmail.com. You can also learn more about our project at http://www.yogafarmcostarica.org.
Cheers
Pat
David, Riley and others! We’re hosting a 6-day Superadobe workshop in Eastern Iowa (7 miles north of I-80) June 26-July 1 professionally taught by Cal-Earth journeymen for only $900 per person. We also need VOLUNTEER help before that for the first story – a six-foot-high, 12-food diameter springline essentially, which will be built into the side of a hill as a root cellar. We live on 73 rolling acres of prairie and timber on the Cedar River with nearby cheap and nice hotels, KOA and primitive camping locations. If you’re interested in either opportunity or more details, please contact me at suzan@lastdraft.com and put “workshop” in the subject header. Thanks!
Hi I live in Maine and I started looking at this form of building about 3 months ago. Since that start I have spent on average about 2 to 3 hours a night searching for anything and everything that can be incorporated into this form of building. I was dissapointed to find nothing in Maine except one straw bale house which I have ruled out due to the humid summers and cold winters that may promote rot or persuade field and forest rodents that my house would make a wonderful home for them too. Interest is starting to build among my friends but even though I talk about everthing that I have learned they are still hesitant. They are willing to help me build but want to wait a couple of years to see how I fare. Eventually though I can see a possible community growing from this which excites me to no end.
My ultimate thought is to get one or more local green state organizations into the mix and create a hands on learning environment for this amazing building process. So no specifics yet for my personal house as I am just now really looking for land and am hoping to start building in either the fall of 2012 or the spring of 2013 after the sale of my father’s house. I know the pitfalls about codes and such that have been continually stated and have been doing the research it will take to get there when I start weeding out the land that I don’t want, and I have read extensively on Kelly Hart’s house which is more suited for colder environs. My question is does anyone know anyone that has built or is building up here or in the New England area that is either open to an educational brain picking or that needs help so that I may gain practical experience? And don’t worry as things take off I fully intend on starting a blog with information so that other’s in this neck of the woods (literally) can benefit from my trials and tribulations.
You can pass a few questions my way. Post them here so others can benefit. But choose a blog post that’s related to insulated earthbag houses so more people will see it.
The main key is finding an affordable, practical insulating material. Scoria and pumice would likely be too expensive due to transportation cost. Did you see the posts on expanded clay? Check into local availability. https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2011/12/11/juergens-earthbag-house-in-hungary/
The other possibility is using recycled styro peanuts like the Solar Pit House: https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2011/09/15/solar-pit-house-building-details/
I assume you’ve seen this: http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Build-an-Insulated-Earthbag-House/
My questions mostly deal with how they got through the code process, (which is why I was hoping to find someone in Maine where I plan to build) and where they procured their materials. I wanted to find out if there were any special challanges with the building process here that have not been mentioned on yours or Kelly’s blogs. Ideally I would love to find someone who has done it and is willing to coach a group of us in a workshop environment or is in the process of building who wants help where I and a few others can pick up some practical experience before we tackle even a shed.
I have read two of the other links but not the one using expanded clay and that looks interesting as an option that I will have to look into. I was thinking that one of your round house/dome clusters bermed with a reciprocal living roof on the round house would be a good start. We have a company that mines and produces perlite in the state and I was thinking of using bags filled with that and rebarred for stability as it has an R rating 2.7. I still have to find out if I can purchase right from them or have to find out where they distribute to. On the inside I was looking at Cob with an earthen plaster for it’s artistic appeal and thermal mass. Outside I’m also thinking about Cob with a plaster. I think Limestone is what I’ve seen suggested for places that get a good deal of rain. I’m still not sure what to do for a floor. I know what Kelly did and I may do that with the perlite instead of scoria but I really want to see first hand examples. I really like the idea of the rocket mass stoves and want to get the Rocket Mass Heater’s book as well as your book and the Earthbag Building book by Kaki Hunter and Donald Kiffmeyer. Eventually I would like to live off grid, but there is more cost in setting that up then I am ready for yet so I will work towards that goal.
Right now Maine itself has adopted a set of building codes which more or less has to be adopted by any town that has more than 2000 people in it. Without talking to anyone and just looking up codes it looks like Brooks Maine would be the most open to this sort of building as they are part of an energy efficiency project sponsered by Build Green Maine. http://www.buildgreenmaine.org/ibrooks/ibrooks
This is one of the groups that I’m looking at approaching and seeing if they have ever done anything like this before and if not would they like to work together to introduce it and possibly work on getting it code approved, and of course along those lines PSE is certified in Maine.
I’m super excited about this system. I’ve been talking non stop about it for the last month. I just would feel alot better with some practical experience under my belt at the hands of someone who has done this before. If this is not possible then I am ok with doing the best i can and eventually being that person for someone else. If there isn’t a house like this in Maine maybe I’ll start a revolution by trying to build a community, or maybe I’ll be limited and shut down. Only time will tell at this point. Like I said right now I’m still looking for porperty and to learn anything I can about this, so any suggestions would be more than welcome.
You bring up some good points. Network with people/groups with similar goals in areas you’d like to live. Search for eco-villages and similar back to the landers on the Internet. People like this have already located the most lenient areas, and likely they’d have similar interests in gardening, etc. I’m 99% sure there are numerous natural building projects in Maine such as strawbale, pole building, cordwood, etc. What they went through as far as code compliance will pave the way for you and your friends. In general, the more rural the better. Many places don’t even enforce codes if it’s truly rural. The codes may be there, but sometimes no one cares. You may only need plumbing, electric and septic inspections.
Perlite is an excellent insulator. I read an article in The Last Straw journal that explained how perlite is excellent for underfloor insulation. Get to know someone at the factory and buy it by the big truckload and you’ll probably save a lot of money. Best to buy it in big bags, and wear a respirator when working with it.
Domes are not the best choice in snowy/rainy climates. Moisture and ice will get into every little crack in the plaster (plaster always cracks a little) and eventually the plaster will break up due to freeze/thaw cycles. Metal roofing is the fastest and easiest. Reciprocal roofs are good because the poles are available locally. Consider a double pole roof so you can add loads of insulation: https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2010/11/08/double-pole-roofs/ Actually, any type of pole truss would work good as long as you have adequate pitch and roof overhang.
Add lots of south facing glass. You might want to add a greenhouse on the front. Something like this Two Roundhouses with Greenhouse would work great: http://earthbagplans.wordpress.com/2011/12/25/two-roundhouses-with-greenhouse/
Read the current discussion at the Rice Hull House blog post (another good low cost insulator): https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2012/01/14/rice-hull-house-wall-section/ We’re talking about ways to build pole frame walls in two concentric circles and filling the space between with insulation.
Uncommon Goods ‘Greenspace’ LA COUNTY
Hello All!
The non-profit Uncommon Good (www.uncommongood.org) has spent the last year or so planning, organizing and now building their headquarters in Claremont, California which lies in the San Gabriel Valley in LA County to which I had the pleasure of supervising. Designed by Claremont Environmental Design Group (CEDG) and built with an average of 9-12 people of varying ages, and a Bobcat. The walls were built shovel full by shovel full and we have community volunteers that come and help build the vaults, all by hand. We have been building the wall and barrel vaults since October 3rd, 2011. It has been a truly enlightening experience being involved in this project and I hope we are able to break more ground in the mainstream culture.
There was a lot involved in the engineering and permitting process due to the county buildings codes, but Claremont was eventually nice enough to allow us to build. Provided we had two engineers to sign off on it ;) The footings are approximately 450-500 psi of stabilized earth mix, and the vaults are about 1400-1500 psi. Rebar is all over the place and bond beams (headers) were added to the design. The thing is like a fortress compared to the surrounding buildings which are typical square 60′s to 70′s designs fully loaded with asbestos.
Overall it is a beautiful example of how much better we can get at building by using at least less cement. I believe, and so do most of my fellow earth builders, that we can build with 0% cement. It’s obvious really. Cement is great but not all over the place. Modern Romans we are.
Our organization, United Earth Builders, wants to get these structures seismic shake table tested so that we can show the ICC that they are viable buildings that can withstand high magnitude earthquakes with no cement. After asking city and officials, builders, architects, engineers and whoever has had experience with building they have all told me that the Cal Earth ICBO dead/live load test was great, but it doesn’t meet the requirement to get this fully accepted by not only the mainstream, but for humanitarian efforts as well. I personally love every aspect of building with earth and this structure was a great leap forward in promoting earth bag building. But an earth builders work is never done ;)
Any questions, feel free!
Peace and Love!
James G.
Anyhoo, enjoy the photos and there are more here:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/United-Earth-Builders/309610242427347
The vault project looks good enough for a future blog post and so I’ve added it to my list. Good job. Feel free to email me a brief description about the building process and design.
I have heard he is a great builder, I am sure his workshop will be great! If you know anyone who would like to host a workshop or attend the Bonita Domes Project, just direct them even Erik to http://www.unitedearthbuilders.com! Thanks and good luck!
Thanks James, I sent him your way as well. Any help drumming up interest in the Midwest project greatly appreciated. Owen, we’ll be laying 6 inches of gravel under the foundation and buttress bags as was done for our house built into a hillside to help alleviate freeze/thaw issues. We’ll also be plastering with round balls instead of a smooth finish (which works really well since the final product will – we hope – end up looking like a dragon!) And of course, will use the bags dipped in asphalt emulsifier to waterproof. It’ll be interesting to see how long it looks good…but since it’s an out building and not a home, there’s less at stake.
I’ve never heard of anyone dipping their bags in asphalt emulsifier. This shouldn’t be necessary.
Thank you. I do need a graden shed so I think that will be a good start. We are putting a used trailer on the property to live in till we finish building. So we can do a small shed first and go from there.
Owen, the liquid asphalt is a waterproofing agent, taught by Cal-Earth. We dip leftover bag ends in it and layer them like fish scales onto the dome. Then put on the scratch coat and finish coat. What do you use for waterproofing?
I’m not in favor of building earthbag domes in rainy climates and caution against it unless they are roofed domes.
Rather then doing an asphalt covering why not try one of the geopolymer cements? I have a list of suppliers. If I can locate it, I will post it. Owen’s other blog may have some manufacturers:
http://geopolymerhouses.wordpress.com/
Kelly’s site also has some good info:
http://www.greenhomebuilding.com/QandA/manufactured/magnesiumoxide.htm
Here is one manufacturer:
http://www.ceratechinc.com/news.asp
Here’s the list I came up with: http://geopolymerhouses.wordpress.com/2011/06/29/sustainable-cement/
We’re still discussing a roof actually…ideas?
I cover many roof building methods on this blog. It’s a huge subject. In some ways roofs are more important than walls. Walls are easy. Roofs are usually more difficult and require more planning. Hot air rises and so heat tends to escape out the roof or along the edge of the roof/wall junction. You have to figure out how to prevent roof leaks, what materials to use and still be affordable, roofwater collection, etc.
Owen,
Cal Earth unfortunately has no experience in waterproofing and suggests using Henry’s 107 as an easy way to waterproof. The reality is that it is an irresponsible, toxic and poor way to actually waterproof earthbag homes as I have tested in on three projects and it has failed every time. Not to mention the toxic fumes make you just feel sick. Basically they smear Henry’s all over the building, dip woven PP bags in the 107, then slap that on to be then covered in earth cement plaster. Not long after the plaster begins to crack because they are putting wet plaster on a surface that repels water (tar) and you have to scrape all of the gunk off and start over. If you leave Henry’s out in the sun for too long to dry, then it is useless and/or chips off. They continuously teach this unfortunate method. There are better ways to waterproof a dome but the best is, as Owen said, a roof. Otherwise there are ancient methods of Tadelakt or Quidad that are being rediscovered and are nearly waterproof lime methods. Those, combined with great planning are your best bets.
Also, I would like to announce the United Earth Builders 10 day intensive workshop beginning in April! Located in Joshua Tree we will be teaching attendees how to build a standard 8′ earthbag dome and a retaining wall.
Participants in this workshop will be led through a series of intellectual, cognitive, and physical exercises that seek to strengthen mind-body connections to both the technical processes, as well as the creative processes underlying the art and skill of earthbag design and construction. From structural principles and design, soil practicum and on-site planning this 10-day workshop will supply the attendee with full confidence in the building process and instill a renewed sense of community through building with the earth.
A dome was chosen for the first workshop because they are the instructors favorite but we will also be covering traditional roofing design and parasol roof design. It is the desert but this particular site is in the middle of a wash so waterproofing will be covered as well! T
The Bonita Domes project will also be a part of the course in order to gain hands on experience with a seasoned crew, an outstanding owner builder couple (Lisa Starr and Gabriel) and an idea of how you will be able to build in your community and deal with your building department! This course will be $850 for 10 days and you will not be disappointed. WE LOVE EARTH BAG!!! UEB is an Oregon non-profit and all tuition goes to materials and instructional costs. Camping and a place to cook and shower will be provided. There are 12 slots left open, we are planning to begin April2nd, please check our website http://www.unitedearthbuilders.com for the application.
Build community with earth and the Earth with community!
You’ll be featured soon on an upcoming blog post. Good luck on the workshop.
Well, James, you’re doing an excellent job of convincing us to cancel our entire project but we simply don’t have another couple thousand bucks to blow (actually more) to fly back out to California to learn more and better from you guys, if that’s what it would be, and yeah, it would be hard to convince me that in Joshua Tree there’d be similar conditions to Iowa, wash or no wash. So I see our efforts here in the northern climes to promote earth bag domes going to hell. Better it happen now than before we build the darn thing and watch it fall apart in a couple of years. Owen, my apologies for the stupid question about roofing – of course it’s in your blog! Good luck to all of you.
There are various viewpoints on these issues and obviously not everyone agrees. No big deal. Try out various things and we’ll eventually see what works and what doesn’t.
That’s not my intent at all, perhaps I came off a little slanted at their approach. But I have seen it fail many times. The point is that you can use many viable solutions to amend the problem such as a parasol roof that can, in your case, withstand hurricane forces as well. Using elastomeric or dry-lok? You guys have plenty of time to research the options of waterproofing because as you know it is important. On Camano Island, Washington, which is very wet, we built a large dome/artist studio that has a large french drain system and is having a parasol roof installed. It was not at much more cost either. Thankfully we have this forum so that no one has to fly back and forth for minute details that can be shared here.
Care to share some of the structural details on that parasol roof? This topic is of huge concern to earthbaggers who want to build domes.
I have been working on a plan to build a hybrid earthbag home. I live in South Louisiana where rice hulls are plentiful. Has anyone ever built a home using a typical lumber frame, but then using bags of rice hulls to build the walls? I’ve seen this method done using straw bales in videos. Has anyone ever done this before? Is this a feasible idea? Does anyone have any suggestions or advice?
My thought is to build the frame and the roof first, and then use this structure along with temporary tarp walls to keep my bags of rice hulls dry.
I am just now learning about natural building, so of course, I have no experience. If anyone in my area needs help with their project, I would be more than happy to lend a hand simply in return for some experience. Thanks to all.
There are lots of possibilities — wide walls or double frame walls with rice hulls inside. But the main thing is to prevent moisture damage. I think the hurricane/high wind and blowing rain situation in Louisiana makes this a high risk option. Sooner or later rain will likely get into the walls and the rice hulls will rot. Better to mix the hulls with something like lime and coat with lime plaster to reduce risk of moisture damage. This is a centuries old building method.
David, if you get in on a project let me know. Would like some experience before I build mine.
I appreciate the offer but it would be too short of notice. Keep me posted and maybe I can come down for a portion of it later in the process. Good luck and take pictures!
Hi all!
I’m moving to Colorado in mid April and would like to help out on any earth building, strawbale, recycled materials, whole tree, etc construction projects in the area. I have a fair bit of experience building in general and specifically with super adobe. If you have a project or know of any ones that might be of interest, please let me know.
Also, if you know of any good architects in the area working with sustainable methods and materials, I would be excited to hear about them!
Thanks,
Maya
mayawk@gmail.com
To whom ever it may concern;
Does anyone have earthbag type projects or have had any of these type projects anywhere in Mexico? Better yet! How can our company become involved with-in your profession? Does anyone offer any courses or training in Mexico? In case you do not; would anyone be interested in giving training in Mexico? Or would it be possible to work together in potential projects ranging from rural to actual urbanization somehow? We thank you for your time and inspiration.
Respectfully submitted,
Antonio Found
Aterh₂sol, SA. De CV. Founding Leader
Hello, there are lots of earthbag projects in Mexico. It’s one of the most popular areas. Most don’t advertise their home, but some do. Search our blog and EarthbagBuilding.com for some examples.
The Children of the Dump.org is one excellent example: https://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2011/02/02/puerto-vallarta-model-home/
My Earthbag Building Guide is currently being translated into Spanish and should be done by the end of the year.
I’m pretty sure some groups do teach earthbag building in your area. All these groups are listed on our blog and website.
We do not have any in Mexico right now, but we do offer workshops where you can learn the full process and participate in a owner/builder project in Southern California. Check out our website – http://www.unitedearthbuilders.com
Otherwise Chihuahua, Mexico always has something going on as well. My friend Jesse Meisler was heading down there to help out but I’m not sure how far along they are.
Also my friend Ulysses is building a rather large dome in La Vega, Jalisco, Mexico as well.
Please send us info on these projects. Most people don’t publicize what they’re doing and so it can be a little difficult finding details on good projects.
Can we please have your friend Ulysses’ contact information in order to learn more of his large dome in La Vega, Jalisco project?
Earthen Hand Natural Building is planning several workshops near Veracruz. We will keep you posted here. You can always stay tuned to the latest workshops at http://www.EarthenHand.com. Our workshops leave students with the confidence to complete their own buildings safely and economically. We throw workshops world wide on various topics such as earthbag, cob/adobe, vaults, domes, earthships, rocket stoves, plus water / power systems and much more. We also advocate using as little cement as possible in every project.
Everyone into earthbag building would really benefit from purchasing owen’s latest book- the Earthbag Building Guide. We recommend all of our students read this first.
Please be in touch with us via our website or facebook.
Earthen Hand is always open to considering new workshop locations, so let us know what you may be planning.
Life is great and mysterious!
I will be holding a workshop near Dallas this summer to build an earthbag earthship hybrid home. anyone interested in attending? it will be a full build from the ground up. It will be a full education on sustainable building. visit my facebook page for more info and contact info.
http://www.facebook.com/EarthshipDallasTx