This fascinating article was sent to me from Jeff Bousquet. Please send us any good articles you come across so we can share with others. Text below is from the Earthbag Bio Latrine website. What is Earth Bag Bio Latrine MINALI Model? This is the new toilet system which works as a biogas plant, which … Read more
If you have access to small diameter trees and wood pallets, and live in an area not restricted by building codes, then this truss design is one good low cost roof option. Small trees are rapidly renewable, and pallets are plentiful and often available for free. Pallet trusses are especially appealing where other sources of … Read more
From time to time we answer reader’s questions. Susan: I live in a part of Texas with a lot of people who live at poverty level. This sort of building around here would provide much comfort for those who live in uncomfortable old trailers and cannot afford expensive conventional housing. The only concern I have … Read more
From time to time we answer reader’s questions. James: I wanted to build with straw bales, but a builder friend advised me not to go with this type of construction here in Texas because of the problem of fire ants building nests in the straw. Owen: No one building system is perfect for every situation. … Read more
I emailed New Mexico Barbed Wire Collectors Association about the durability of barbed wire outdoors in the elements. If barbed wire lasts a long time in the rain and snow, then it should be even more durable when protected from the elements. Owen: Our readers would love to hear about the durability of barbed wire. … Read more
Earthbag building and rammed earth construction are very similar. Both methods utilize earth that has been tamped solid. In the case of earthbag building, polypropylene bags or tubes contain the soil and eliminate the need for expensive forms. Since they are very similar in composition, we can reasonably speculate that earthbag houses will last for … Read more