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Earth construction techniques
1. Cob
A cob building is composed of a timber frame structure, filled with a mixture of straw and earth. It is an advanced bio-ecological construction method.
timber framing
wall filled with cob
2. Rammed earth or pisé
Earth, locally dug and in humid condition, is applied inside a framing and mechanically dammed. There is no need of an extra supporting structure.
This technique can be found in subtropical regions in particular.
The walls are highly inert; they absorb a lot of heat, which is released at night.
Church in Ars, recent pisé construction
3. Adobe
Technique of moulded bricks or compressed adobe bricks in mould, sun-dried. The bricks are processed by traditional brickwork techniques, using earth mortar.
Wood reinforcement can be built into, for fortification
Wall filled with adobe bricks
4. Compressed adobe bricks or briques de terre comprimées
The bricks are compressed mechanically and stabilized with some cement or lime.
The bricks are of better quality than adobe bricks; they better retain their shape and are stronger
Compressed adobe bricks
5. Timber framing
A timber structure which is composed of heavy supporting posts and beams and is filled in with interwoven willow tree branches. A ten centimetre earth and straw layer is put on top.
This technique can traditionally be found in our regions. It offers a mild indoor climate but the outer walls need extra insulation.
Prototype modern house in Brazil, timbered.
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