Most compressed earth blocks (CEBs) are made in a mechanical press with a mixture of sandy soil, clayey soil, and a small amount of cement and water. CEBs typically require no plaster and are popular for walls, privacy walls, planters and much more. We used CEBs on our outdoor kitchen and raised garden beds. Recently I’ve discovered some rather unusual and very interesting CEBs made with unconventional materials. In addition to the compressed blocks shown here, you could use crushed glass, lava rock, brightly colored soil in sediment-like layers, sea shells, crushed limestone and other low cost and sustainable materials. The main idea is to utilize what is affordable and locally available.
compressed earth block
Ecological home of Sanjay and Pratibha Singh
“The artist couple Pratibha and Sanjay Singh have a nice earth based ecological home along with a studio for Sanjay as part of the home. The whole house is of earth excavated from the site. There is no plastering or painting for the building. The house is naturally lit and naturally ventilated with no fan or air conditioning. Sanjay is an avid gardener and we josh about his North Indian garden. Harvested rain supplies the garden water and adds to the house hold use. Grey water from the kitchen is reused for the garden.
Low-cost construction interlocking soil cement blocks & bricks
“Low-Cost Housing – Construction – Materials – Habitech International – Interlocking Bricks and Blocks – Habitech International Building System is faster, easier, strong and durable reducing costs – Sustainable Green Technologies – Creates Jobs Generating Income and Revenues”
Technical CEB Information
I’ve put together a brief list of compressed earth block (CEB) technical documents.
Compressed Earth Block Wall Build
Yet another way to build with CEBs. This looks like one of the most efficient.
Another CEB Wall Method
“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.