The only how-to manual on the subject directed to mainstream
owner-builders
An earth-sheltered, earth-roofed home has the least impact upon the land
of all housing styles, leaving almost zero footprint on the planet.
Earth-Sheltered Houses is a practical guide for those who want to
build their own underground home at moderate cost. It describes the
benefits of sheltering a home with earth, including the added comfort
and energy efficiency from the moderating influence of the earth on the
home's temperature-keeping it warm in the winter and cool in the
summer-low maintenance, and the protection against fire, sound,
earthquake and storm afforded by the earth. Extra benefits from adding
an earth or other living roof option include greater longevity of the
roof substrate, fine aesthetics, and environmental harmony.
The book covers all of the various construction techniques involved
including details on planning, excavation, footings, floor, walls,
framing, roofing, waterproofing, insulation and drainage. Specific
methods appropriate for the inexperienced owner-builder are a particular
focus and include:
- pouring one's own footings and/or floor
- the use of dry-stacked (surface-bonded) concrete block walls
- post-and-beam framing
- plank-and-beam roofing, and
- drainage methods and self-adhesive waterproofing membranes.
The time-tested, easy-to-learn construction techniques described in
Earth-Sheltered Houses will enable readers to embark upon their own
building projects with confidence, backed up by a comprehensive
resources section that lists all the latest products such as
waterproofing membranes, types of rigid insulation and drainage products
that will protect the building against water damage and heat loss.
