“CEBs are one of the cheapest, simplest building methods available. They are an advancement on adobe blocks and are far more versatile, durable and strong.
Compressed Earth is similar to adobe in its composition, but it is made by compressing moist, but not wet, earth into a stable form. The resulting brick is several times as strong as adobe and the consistency of the blocks can be very precise. Blocks are made with a press, and all sorts of configurations are available depending on the type of block desired.
The bricks can be either laid in mortar or dry-stacked and surface bonded, depending on the design of the structure. Dry stacking is quick, and if you designed your forms to be an even division of the wall, the walls of the house can go up in a few days, or even a few hours with a decent crew. Interlocking is a must for surface bonded walls.”
Read the full article with lots of photos at the source: Vela Creations.com
As far as I understand, it is the same people behind these webpages:
http://www.earthbagbuilding.com/articles/advantages.htm
https://naturalbuildingblog.siterubix.com/another-ceb-wall-method/
I think you should update the first of the above pages, since I think the CEB method should have more green colors…
For example, the current “Relatively fast: No” should be changed to yes, don’t you agree ?
And “Special curing process (delays): Yes” should probably become no instead.
Regarding building fast, you write (at above second link):
> “… the walls of the house can go up in a few days, or even a few hours with a decent crew …”
Regarding the claimed delays (at the above mentioned earthbagbuilding site) consider the wikpipedia page:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compressed_earth_block#Advantages
> “…Some soil conditions permit the blocks to go straight from the press onto the wall…”
I’m too busy to sort this out, sorry.
Can you use a floating foundation with CEB or does it require poured concrete ?
Talk to an engineer in your area who’s familiar with your soil.
Thanks for the post, Owen!
I want to remind people that they can see more photos and info about laying the bricks here:
http://velacreations.com/shelter/building-components/walls/item/165-brick.html
do you happen to have a list of different CEB machines/presses? I know I saw one on your older site…. I think….?
You’ll have to use google. You can search our blog for Star Top Presses in Thailand, but it’s best to find a company near you to save on shipping.