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Library | Item Barcode | Call Number | Material Type | Item Category 1 | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Searching... | 30000010251659 | TH4860 N86 2010 | Open Access Book | Book | Searching... |
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Summary
Summary
Learn how to identify, locate, and effectively use alternative building materials, including cob, adobe, rammed earth, bamboo, cork, wool carpeting, and more. You will also learn about the structure, climate control, siting, foundations, and flooring options you gain when using these materials. Ultimately, you will come to understand that these materials are cheaper, easier to build with, stronger, more durable, and more fire resistant.
Author Notes
Jon Nunan is a writer for the home improvement industry, and staunch supporter of learning by doing and letting that which does not matter truly slide. When not writing, he can be found identifying wild mushrooms, picking berries, and taking on small projects in and around the wood pile he currently calls home.
Table of Contents
| Foreword | p. 11 |
| Preface | p. 15 |
| Introduction | p. 19 |
| What Is Alternative Building? | p. 20 |
| The Importance of Green and Sustainable Building | p. 24 |
| Using Readily Accessible Materials | p. 26 |
| Chapter 1 Planning and Permits | p. 29 |
| Dealing with Building Inspectors | p. 32 |
| Seeking Professional Help | p. 34 |
| Chapter 2 For All Owner-Built Homes | p. 41 |
| Choosing Your Site | p. 42 |
| Planning Your Plumbing | p. 44 |
| Laying Your Foundation | p. 60 |
| Electrical Wiring | p. 76 |
| Heating and Cooling | p. 99 |
| Roofing | p. 108 |
| Living Roofs | p. 114 |
| Insulation | p. 118 |
| Framing | p. 121 |
| Windows and Doors | p. 124 |
| Papercrete and Earth Plaster | p. 127 |
| Chapter 3 What is St Like to Build Your Own Home? | p. 137 |
| Cordwood Homes | p. 143 |
| Constructing Cordwood Walls | p. 153 |
| Chapter 4 Adobe and Light Clay Homes | p. 159 |
| About Adobe | p. 160 |
| About Light Clay | p. 164 |
| Adobe Brick Considerations | p. 167 |
| Chapter 5 Rubber Tire Homes | p. 185 |
| About Building with Used Tires | p. 188 |
| Constructing Tire Walls | p. 188 |
| Chapter 6 Straw Bale Homes | p. 193 |
| About Straw Bale Building | p. 196 |
| Building Straw Bale Walls | p. 198 |
| Chapter 7 Earthbag Homes | p. 209 |
| About Earthbag Building | p. 210 |
| Building Earthbag Walls | p. 210 |
| Chapter 8 Cob Homes | p. 215 |
| About Cob Construction | p. 216 |
| Building Cob Walls | p. 219 |
| Chapter 9 Sod, Rammed Earth, and Compressed Earth Homes | p. 229 |
| About Sod Construction | p. 230 |
| Constructing Sod Walls | p. 233 |
| About Building with Rammed Earth | p. 235 |
| Constructing Rammed-Earth (Pisé de Terre) Walls | p. 237 |
| About Compressed Earth Blocks | p. 241 |
| Building CEB Walls | p. 243 |
| Chapter 10 Aluminum Can and Glass Bottle Homes | p. 247 |
| About Can and Bottle Construction | p. 248 |
| Chapter 11 Sustainable Accents for Alternative Home Builders | p. 251 |
| Bamboo | p. 253 |
| Cork | p. 255 |
| Reclaimed Lumber | p. 256 |
| Salvaged Materials and Components | p. 257 |
| Wool Carpet | p. 258 |
| A Completely Recycled Home | p. 259 |
| Conclusion | p. 263 |
| Glossary | p. 267 |
| Bibliography | p. 273 |
| Additional Resources | p. 279 |
| Green Builders, Designers, and Architects | p. 279 |
| Pictures | p. 280 |
| Organizations | p. 280 |
| Conventions | p. 281 |
| Periodicals | p. 281 |
| Websites | p. 281 |
| Author Biography | p. 283 |
| Index | p. 285 |
