Author(s): John Norton
Publisher: Stylus Pub Llc
ISBN: 1853393371
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2nd Edition Paperback
Publication date: October 1997
This handbook provides practical help in choosing whether and how to build with earth, from soil selection through to construction and maintenance. The techniques described in the second edition–revised and updated–of this book have a focus on achieving good quality results with accessible methods, that can go on being used by rich and poor, and for simple buildings as well as the more sophisticated.
Table of Contents
Introduction
How this Handbook Might Help You
Terminology
General Considerations
What Earth Is
Strength and Weakness
Climatic Performance and Comfort
Earthquake Resistance
Choosing Whether and How to Build with Earth
Choosing a Suitable Soil
Soil Composition
Particle Characteristics
Laterites
Expansive Soils
Soil Analysis
Initial Sensory Observation
Field Tests
Field Laboratory Tests
How to Determine and Improve Quality
Standards
Visual Assessment
Compressive Strength
Bending Strength or Modulus of Rupture
Resistance to Water Erosion
Moisture Absorption
Soil Improvement
Wall Construction
Combination Walls
Load-Bearing Walls
Roofs
Self-supporting Earth Vaults Build on Shuttering
Vault and Domes Without Formwork
Flat and Pitched Roofs
Short Span Earth Components Between Support Beams
Reinforced Earth Roofs
Foundations and Floors
Foundations
Floors
Protection
Preliminary Considerations
Renders
Caring for Your Building
Openings, Joinery, Finishes and Furniture
Openings
Joinery
Finishes
Furniture
Electricity and Plumbing
References and Notes
Bibliography
