http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZS4VQczEAk
There isn’t one earthbag system that’s best for all situations, and so we cover all different ways of building with bags. It’s been quite a while since we’ve talked about the EcoBeam system. This video sums up the process nicely. It’s ideal for larger, rectilinear, more conventional shaped houses.
From the EcoBeam Homes website:
“There are many factors which influence the cost of building a house however, in Israel a saving of at least 30% can easily be achieved by utilizing the ECOFRAME Building System. In addition, the result will be a quality and more ecologically friendly house. Accepting that time is money, the ECOFRAME System has a very rapid construction rate. When using the ECOFRAME patented cladding instead of plaster, the house can be ready for occupation within days.
ECOFRAME is a trademark for a lattice beam constructed with parallel chords of sawn timber and inclined web members formed from a continuous metal strip in zigzag configuration.
– Eco-friendly
– Green House (Carbon footprint much less than conventional construction)
– Up to 70% superior thermal properties
– 3 Times greater mass than conventional building
– Aesthetically pleasing
– Superior acoustic qualities
– Versatility of the building process allows for multiple applications
– All services can be accommodated in the walls
– Minimal building waste or losses on site
– Creates job opportunities
– Low skill levels required in the initial construction phase
– Ease of transport
– Ease of construction
– Low transportation costs
– ECOFRAMEs can be manufactured anywhere
– Between 30 to 40% lower building costs than conventional building
– Patented technology”
Source: EcoBeam Homes
Can anyone tell me where to order online, the metal stips between that zigzags between the battens? Or at least a price for a good sized roll?
EcoBeams make wood siding possible.
http://earthbagbuilding.wordpress.com/2009/12/19/wood-siding-on-earthbag-houses/
Thank you for providing info on options with earth(sand) bag construction. This is certainly enlightening. Could you please refer me to information that details appropriate flooring and roofing for two storey houses with earth bag walls. I would appreciate that very much. Living in Manila, with all the heavy rains and severe floods we are now experiencing, it seems a good idea to have earth(sand) bags for foundation and walls and importantly have a second story to run up to when the floods rise beyond our shins! Thank you and Namaste!
There are lots of options. Look at what other builders are using in your area. You could use concrete floors. You could use wood trusses and microconcrete tile roofing, etc.
I have seen this construction before and never realized the simplicity.
It reminds me of when I was a kid and I got the car models that did not require glue, the parts snaped together and some stickers on it. Great toys.
The beam is simple but effective and the bag filling/closing look so easy. Making a roof beam like this sounds fine to me.
It can work great for rectilinear buildings. There’s added cost for the beams, but you save time and labor and end up with a strong building. Seems especially practical in areas with mostly sand.