Open Weave Fabric: Ideal Working Properties

I was able to find some fruit and vegetable bags that seem to match what is being used in Brazil by Fernando Pacheco, the developer of the Hiperadobe earthbag system. What I’ve located is an open weave synthetic fabric, 5 x 10mm weave with 2 x 8mm openings. It has vertical threads and horizontal strips … Read more

Tipping Point for Earthbag Construction

I think it’s abundantly clear we have hit some sort of tipping point or turning point for earthbag building. The list I put together Some Incredible Facts about Earthbag Building summarizes many positive aspects of earthbag. And every day brings news of additional ways to further reduce costs and save labor. Earthbag building is already … Read more

Hiperadobe

Our previous post about Earthbag Locations caught the attention of readers, who are sending us information on additional countries. This is a good example of how it’s impossible to keep up with everything, especially when information is in foreign languages. Paula, one of our readers, said: “In Brazil there are various institutions that teach building … Read more

Some Incredible Facts about Earthbag Building

Every day we hear good news about earthbag building and other types of sustainable building – new projects, new companies getting involved, and on and on. If you’re new to this site (both this site and my Earthbag House Plans site are experiencing record traffic), please browse through the information we’ve compiled. I think you’ll … Read more

Earthbag Survival Shelter

This 20’ DIA (314 sq. ft. interior plus pantry)round earthbag shelter for up to 4-5 individuals is designed for survival through disasters, plague, etc. It is low cost, durable and practical. This shelter is designed for DIYers on a tight budget who will do most everything by hand. Instructions include numerous key details not evident … Read more

Bullet Resistance of Compressed Earth

Earthco Building Systems, Inc. performed some interesting bullet resistance tests on their compressed earth Megablocks. Their website says they used 50 caliber BMG armor piercing military ammunition. Densely compacted earthbag walls made with subsoil would likely have comparable results. Maybe someone with a rifle and spare time could conduct a similar test on earthbags. Please … Read more