I want to build a low cost but comfortable small earthen house in the Sonoran Desert. Currently conducting a series of experiments to discover process that will be effective for my build:
- Comparing lime versus Poland cement for stabilizing poured earth. These mixes have a cure time measured in days and multiple experiments are in progress...
- Research into latex cement for panelized wall and roof coverings over exterior insulation, mostly for temporary shelter structures.
- Modular forms lined with geotextile fabric to minimize surface cracking in poured walls.
- Other techniques to assure reliable performance of earth structures.
- small mechanical projects to help make DIY practicable, e.g. auger mixers I can run from my tractor PTO, DIY trommel for grading materials, etc.
- Comparing lime versus Poland cement for stabilizing poured earth. These mixes have a cure time measured in days and multiple experiments are in progress... - Research into latex cement for panelized wall and roof coverings over exterior insulation, mostly for temporary shelter structures. - Modular forms lined with geotextile fabric to minimize surface cracking in poured walls. - Other techniques to assure reliable performance of earth structures. - small mechanical projects to help make DIY practicable, e.g. auger mixers I can run from my tractor PTO, DIY trommel for grading materials, etc.