Handbook for Building Homes of Earth

At a glance..

This small book tries to take the newest techniques developed in modern soil mechanics and put them into simple terms so that almost anyone, anywhere, can have the benefit of the great amount of work that has been done by the scientists.

The details..

The Handbook for Building Homes of Earth provides readers with an in-depth understanding of how to build homes using earth as the primary construction material. The authors discuss various types of soil and their suitability for different purposes, including which soils are best suited for making adobe or pressed earth blocks.

In addition to discussing soil properties, this handbook also covers topics such as soil stabilizers, site preparation, foundations and roofs suitable for earthen houses. It explains how advances made in mechanics have allowed scientists to predict and control what soils will do under many different conditions.

One unique aspect that sets this book apart from others on homebuilding is its focus on self-help programs aimed at providing people who need good quality housing with affordable options they can construct themselves without relying heavily on manufactured materials.

Overall, the Handbook For Building Homes Of Earth offers practical advice based on research conducted by Texas A&M University's Research Foundation funded by the Agency for International Development (AID). This manual presents complex scientific information about modern soil mechanics techniques in simple terms so that almost anyone anywhere can benefit from it.