Practical Action.org: Micro-concrete Roofing Tile Production
“Much attention has been paid to developing the small-scale production of concrete roofing tiles as an affordable alternative to both traditional roofing materials, such as thatch, and modern, mass-produced, often inappropriate, galvanized iron sheeting or asbestos cement. These tiles are relatively low in cost, durable (with a life span expected to exceed 20 years in most areas), aesthetically acceptable, able to offer adequate security and comfort, and provide protection from both the heavy rain and the hot sun.
Roofs
Sean’s Adobe House
Within the same alternative community as Ted’s ruins (see the previous post) is Sean’s Adobe House, also featured in my Sampler of Alternative Homes video. Sean Sands built this house about 20 years ago for less than $1,000. He used the native soil, which is an almost perfect adobe mix of about 25% clay and 75% sand. All he would do is moist the soil where he wanted to harvest adobe the night before he planned to dig it. Then he placed the damp soil in a hydraulic ram press to make compressed earth blocks. He would let these cure in the sun for a few days before building with them. Part of the walls of the house were made with old tires packed with soil.
Tire Shingles
A reader wants to build entirely with recycled materials such as plastic bottles. She asked me for roofing ideas. There may be better information available. Please leave a comment if you have suggestions for better websites/information.
Vaulted Roof Technique
“The vaulted roofing system using conical tile has been developed and used by Centre of Science for Villages, Wardha, Maharashtra for the last four decades. The roof is easy to construct and uses local materials and skills.”
Eco-friendly Roof Styles to Give a Distinct Look to Your House
“Everyone loves to have a dwelling quite exclusive from others. But constructing a new house or even reconstructing any portion of it is a daunting task. Consider the roof styles – so many modern designs and trends are there now. Why don’t you explore some eco-friendly options for new roof? You can enjoy so many advantages of these roof styles. Eco-friendly roofs are energy-efficient, durable, environment friendly and also a great insulator for your home.
Take a quick look at these ecological roof styles suitable for your residence… Who knows you might find one of your choices!
LiveRoof Living Roofs
“LiveRoof® combines the best features of all green roof systems:
• Natural Function/ Natural Beauty of built-in-place systems
• Speed of installation of modules
• Prevegetation of carpet systems
• Plant diversity of 65mm – 150mm of soil.