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Natural Techniques for a Natural Building

Natural Techniques for a Natural Building

By Matthew Thompson on 31st August, 2010

There has been a growing resurgence in the popularity of natural buildings, as more people are looking to more natural methods when constructing new housing or buildings. Natural buildings are just that, natural, using earth's resources to construct durable, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing constructions. There are different styles of buildings, which have evolved for the different environments that they need to withstand.

Adobe buildings, popular in West Asia, West Africa, North Africa and other dry and hot areas are made from sand, clay, water and organic mixture of straw, sticks or manure. This natural brick technique has been recognised for around 4000 years, a well built and cleverly designed adobe building of the right thickness can accommodate to the fluctuating hot days and cool night's climate of desert and hot environments. However, a good thermal mass is not backed up with sufficient insulation, which is usually added inside, after construction.

Cordwood building is a method involving laying pieces of wood which protrude from a mixture of mortar by a small amount. Evidence of Cordwood buildings have been found in areas of Greece and Siberia which date back as far as 1000 years. Cordwood construction is an economical use for log ends from fallen trees in heavily timbered areas. The use of less dense, airy woods is desired, due to its ability to shrink and expand in lower proportions, working very effectively with the mortar. A Cordwood building is relatively cheap to produce, and if done properly, heating costs will be low. Cordwood buildings are popular in areas of Canada, where they have stood well against the seasons there.

Straw construction is a technique that has been used for centuries and is an environmentally friendly, cost effective and traditional building method. With the first recorded use of straw bales to make a building, in the 1800's, it has certainly stood the test of time. Straw buildings have also recently been used in contemporary designed buildings and an evolvement to densely packed bales means a straw bale construction can bear a much heavier load.

Timber Frame buildings was the most commonly used building method until the 19th Century. It is the basis for modern building methods where by a building is made around a frame. They are quick to erect, and produce a high quality sustainable building. Timber frame is the basis for all Decorated Shed buildings, and the simple use of natural materials, but with a contemporary spin can be seen in the construction of the garden studio. Taking only 4 days to build the lifelong structure can be implemented to suit your specific needs and requirements. High performance energy efficient insulation keeps the internal temperature constant through all seasons. Triple glazed windows and doors also act as year round insulators. Natural techniques, of using sustainable materials are becoming more popular in the construction of modern buildings, with constructor, designers and consumers seeing the potential in long-standing methods


Category:  Architecture and Design

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