Typical adobe construction involves making adobe blocks by digging and mixing mud, filling molds with the mixture, drying the blocks in the sun, turning the blocks every so often, moving the blocks to cure under cover, and then moving them to the jobsite where they are often moved several more times in the course of constructing the wall. A typical New Mexico size brick is four inches thick, ten inches wide, and fourteen inches long (4x10x14). A brick this size will weigh about thirty pounds. Obviously building with adobes is a slow, labor intensive process.
General
Dunne Family Update #2
Yesterday’s blog post about post and beam construction reminded me of the Dunne family strawbale house that we’ve covered previously. Click here to see the previous blog post. This project has always been one of my favorites, so it’s time for an update.
Recycled Post and Beam Houses
We’ve discussed building with recycled wood in great detail in previous blog posts. Use the search bar on the right side of the page to find other articles. This blog post is about using reclaimed/recycled wood and locally harvested wood for the post and beam frame. This includes using standing dead trees that are still solid and blowdowns from storms.
Solvatten Water Filter and Water Heater
“Solvatten: reducing deforestation, soil erosion and CO2 emissions
SOLVATTEN is a combined water treatment and solar water heater system typically used in situations where water resources are scarce and prone to contamination. It enables children and their families living without safe water to improve their quality of life. Built to last an entire childhood, the SOLVATTEN solution brings lasting change.
Tiny House/Cabin made from FREE Pallets
“Kevin Bentley (www.facebook.com/thepalletcabin) shares his “Pallet Cabin” with us- one he made from recycled and free pallet wood. This cabin, at 12′ by 12′, stands as a great little hunting, guest, or weekending cabin or cottage, or could potentially be used/ converted into a tiny house for full time living. Kevin, based in Georgia, (and a tiny house fan) has many other projects in the works, so be sure to check out his Facebook page, and subscribe!”
Green Acres Organic Durian Eco-Retreat
“Last summer, my friend Ryan and I visited Green Acres, an eco-retreat center built on an organic durian farm. I’ve visited more than my share of pretty awesome durian farms, but right away I knew this solar-powered, off-the-grid farm was in another league of coolness.