Sustainable architecture

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Energy-plus-houses at Freiburg-Vauban in Germany
Sustainable architecture is architecture that seeks to minimize the negative environmental impact
of buildings by efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, and development space.
Sustainable architecture uses a conscious approach to energy and ecological conservation in the
design of the built environment.
[1]

The idea of sustainability, or ecological design, is to ensure that our actions and decisions today do
not inhibit the opportunities of future generations.
[2]

Contents
[hide]
1 Sustainable energy use
o 1.1 Heating, ventilation and cooling system efficiency
o 1.2 Renewable energy generation
1.2.1 Solar panels
1.2.2 Wind turbines
1.2.3 Solar water heating
1.2.4 Heat pumps
2 Sustainable building materials
o 2.1 Recycled materials
o 2.2 Lower volatile organic compounds
o 2.3 Materials sustainability standards
3 Waste management
4 Building placement
5 Sustainable building consulting
6 Changing pedagogies
7 Sustainable urbanism and architecture
8 Criticism
9 See also
10 References
11 External links
Sustainable energy use[edit]
Main articles: Low-energy house and Zero-energy building


K2 sustainable apartments inWindsor, Victoria, Australia by DesignInc (2006) features passive solar design, recycled
and sustainable materials, photovoltaic cells,wastewater treatment, rainwater collection and solar hot water.


The passivhaus standard combines a variety of techniques and technologies to achieve ultra-low energy use.


Following its destruction by a tornado in 2007, the town ofGreensburg, Kansas (USA) elected to rebuild to highly
stringent LEED Platinum environmental standards. Shown is the town's new art center, which integrates its own solar
panels and wind generators for energy self-sufficiency.
Energy efficiency over the entire life cycle of a building is the single most important goal of
sustainable architecture. Architects use many different techniques to reduce the energy needs of
buildings and increase their ability to capture or generate their own energy.
Heating, ventilation and cooling system efficiency[edit]
The most important and cost-effective element of an efficient heating, ventilating, and air
conditioning (HVAC) system is a well-insulated building. A more efficient building requires less heat
generating or dissipating power, but may require more ventilation capacity to expelpolluted indoor
air.
Significant amounts of energy are flushed out of buildings in the water, air and compost streams. Off
the shelf, on-site energy recycling technologies can effectively recapture energy from waste hot
water and stale air and transfer that energy into incoming fresh cold water or fresh air. Recapture of
energy for uses other than gardening from compost leaving buildings requires centralized anaerobic
digesters.
HVAC systems are powered by motors. Copper, versus other metal conductors, helps to improve
the electrical energy efficiencies of motors, thereby enhancing the sustainability of electrical building
components. (For main article, see: Copper in energy-efficient motors).
Site and building orientation have some major effects on a building's HVAC efficiency.
Passive solar building design allows buildings to harness the energy of the sun efficiently without the
use of any active solar mechanisms such as photovoltaic cells or solar hot water panels.
Typically passive solar building designs incorporate materials with high thermal massthat retain heat
effectively and strong insulation that works to prevent heat escape. Low energy designs also
requires the use of solar shading, by means of awnings, blinds or shutters, to relieve the solar heat
gain in summer and to reduce the need for artificial cooling. In addition, low energy
buildings typically have a very low surface area to volume ratio to minimize heat loss. This means
that sprawling multi-winged building designs (often thought to look more "organic") are often avoided
in favor of more centralized structures. Traditional cold climate buildings such
as American colonial saltbox designs provide a good historical model for centralized heat efficiency
in a small-scale building.
Windows are placed to maximize the input of heat-creating light while minimizing the loss of heat
through glass, a poor insulator. In thenorthern hemisphere this usually involves installing a large
number of south-facing windows to collect direct sun and severely restricting the number of north-
facing windows. Certain window types, such as double or triple glazed insulated windows with gas
filled spaces and low emissivity (low-E) coatings, provide much better insulation than single-pane
glass windows. Preventing excess solar gain by means of solar shading devices in the summer
months is important to reduce cooling needs. Deciduous trees are often planted in front of windows
to block excessive sun in summer with their leaves but allow light through in winter when their leaves
fall off. Louvers or light shelves are installed to allow the sunlight in during the winter (when the sun
is lower in the sky) and keep it out in the summer (when the sun is high in the
sky).Coniferous or evergreen plants are often planted to the north of buildings to shield against cold
north winds.
In colder climates, heating systems are a primary focus for sustainable architecture because they
are typically one of the largest single energy drains in buildings.
In warmer climates where cooling is a primary concern, passive solar designs can also be very
effective. Masonry building materials withhigh thermal mass are very valuable for retaining the cool
temperatures of night throughout the day. In addition builders often opt for sprawling single story
structures in order to maximize surface area and heat loss.
[citation needed]
Buildings are often designed
to capture and channel existing winds, particularly the especially cool winds coming from
nearby bodies of water. Many of these valuable strategies are employed in some way by
the traditional architecture of warm regions, such as south-western mission buildings.
In climates with four seasons, an integrated energy system will increase in efficiency: when the
building is well insulated, when it is sited to work with the forces of nature, when heat is recaptured
(to be used immediately or stored), when the heat plant relying on fossil fuels or electricity is greater
than 100% efficient, and when renewable energy is used.
Renewable energy generation[edit]


BedZED (Beddington Zero Energy Development), the UK's largest and first carbon-neutral eco-community: the
distinctive roofscape with solar panels and passive ventilation chimneys
Solar panels[edit]
Main article: Solar PV
Active solar devices such as photovoltaic solar panels help to provide sustainable electricity for any
use. Electrical output of a solar panel is dependent on orientation, efficiency, latitude, and climate
solar gain varies even at the same latitude. Typical efficiencies for commercially available PV panels
range from 4% to 28%. The low efficiency of certain photovoltaic panels can significantly affect the
payback period of their installation.
[3]
This low efficiency does not mean that solar panels are not a
viable energy alternative. In Germany for example, Solar Panels are commonly installed in
residential home construction.
Roofs are often angled toward the sun to allow photovoltaic panels to collect at maximum efficiency.
In the northern hemisphere, a true-south facing orientation maximizes yield for solar panels. If true-
south is not possible, solar panels can produce adequate energy if aligned within 30 of south.
However, at higher latitudes, winter energy yield will be significantly reduced for non-south
orientation.
To maximize efficiency in winter, the collector can be angled above horizontal Latitude +15. To
maximize efficiency in summer, the angle should be Latitude -15. However, for an annual maximum
production, the angle of the panel above horizontal should be equal to its latitude.
[4]

Wind turbines[edit]
Main article: Wind power
The use of undersized wind turbines in energy production in sustainable structures requires the
consideration of many factors. In considering costs, small wind systems are generally more
expensive than larger wind turbines relative to the amount of energy they produce. For small wind
turbines, maintenance costs can be a deciding factor at sites with marginal wind-harnessing
capabilities. At low-wind sites, maintenance can consume much of a small wind turbine's
revenue.
[5]
Wind turbines begin operating when winds reach 8 mph, achieve energy production
capacity at speeds of 32-37 mph, and shut off to avoid damage at speeds exceeding 55 mph.
[5]
The
energy potential of a wind turbine is proportional to the square of the length of its blades and to the
cube of the speed at which its blades spin. Though wind turbines are available that can supplement
power for a single building, because of these factors, the efficiency of the wind turbine depends
much upon the wind conditions at the building site. For these reasons, for wind turbines to be at all
efficient, they must be installed at locations that are known to receive a constant amount of wind
(with average wind speeds of more than 15 mph), rather than locations that receive wind
sporadically.
[6]
A small wind turbine can be installed on a roof. Installation issues then include the
strength of the roof, vibration, and the turbulence caused by the roof ledge. Small-scale rooftop wind
turbines have been known to be able to generate power from 10% to up to 25% of the electricity
required of a regular domestic household dwelling.
[7]
Turbines for residential scale use are usually
between 7 feet (2 m) to 25 feet (8 m) in diameter and produce electricity at a rate of 900 watts to
10,000 watts at their tested wind speed.
[8]
Building integrated wind turbine performance can be
enhanced with the addition of an aerofoil wing on top of a roof mounted turbine.
[9]

See also: Design feasibilIty of Wind turbine systems
Solar water heating[edit]
Main article: Solar thermal power
Solar water heaters, also called solar domestic hot water systems, can be a cost-effective way to
generate hot water for a home. They can be used in any climate, and the fuel they usesunshine
is free.
[10]

There are two types of solar water systems- active and passive. An active solar collector system can
produce about 80 to 100 gallons of hot water per day. A passive system will have a lower
capacity.
[11]

There are also two types of circulation, direct circulation systems and indirect circulation systems.
Direct circulation systems loop the domestic water through the panels. They should not be used in
climates with temperatures below freezing. Indirect circulation loops glycol or some other fluid
through the solar panels and uses a heat exchanger to heat up the domestic water.
The two most common types of collector panels are Flat-Plate and Evacuated-tube. The two work
similarly except that evacuated tubes do not convectively lose heat, which greatly improves their
efficiency (5%-25% more efficient). With these higher efficiencies, Evacuated-tube solar collectors
can also produce higher-temperature space heating, and even higher temperatures for absorption
cooling systems.
[12]

Electric-resistance water heaters that are common in homes today have an electrical demand
around 4500 kWh/year. With the use of solar collectors, the energy use is cut in half. The up-front
cost of installing solar collectors is high, but with the annual energy savings, payback periods are
relatively short.
[12]

Heat pumps[edit]
Air-source heat pumps (ASHP) can be thought of as reversible air conditioners. Like an air
conditioner, an ASHP can take heat from a relatively cool space (e.g. a house at 70F) and dump it
into a hot place (e.g. outside at 85F). However, unlike an air conditioner, the condenser and
evaporator of an ASHP can switch roles and absorb heat from the cool outside air and dump it into a
warm house.
Air-source heat pumps are inexpensive relative to other heat pump systems. However, the efficiency
of air-source heat pumps decline when the outdoor temperature is very cold or very hot; therefore,
they are only really applicable in temperate climates.
[12]

For areas not located in temperate climates, ground-source (or geothermal) heat pumps provide an
efficient alternative. The difference between the two heat pumps is that the ground-source has one
of its heat exchangers placed undergroundusually in a horizontal or vertical arrangement. Ground-
source takes advantage of the relatively constant, mild temperatures underground, which means
their efficiencies can be much greater than that of an air-source heat pump. The in-ground heat
exchanger generally needs a considerable amount of area. Designers have placed them in an open
area next to the building or underneath a parking lot.
Energy Star ground-source heat pumps can be 40% to 60% more efficient than their air-source
counterparts. They are also quieter and can also be applied to other functions like domestic hot
water heating.
[12]

In terms of initial cost, the ground-source heat pump system costs about twice as much as a
standard air-source heat pump to be installed. However, the up-front costs can be more than offset
by the decrease in energy costs. The reduction in energy costs is especially apparent in areas with
typically hot summers and cold winters.
[12]

Other types of heat pumps are water-source and air-earth. If the building is located near a body of
water, the pond or lake could be used as a heat source or sink. Air-earth heat pumps circulate the
building's air through underground ducts. With higher fan power requirements and inefficient heat
transfer, Air-earth heat pumps are generally not practical for major construction.
Sustainable building materials[edit]
See also: Green building
Some examples of sustainable building materials include recycled denim or blown-in fiber glass
insulation, sustainably harvested wood, Trass, Linoleum,
[13]
sheep wool, concrete(high and ultra high
performance
[14]
roman self-healing concrete
[15]
), panels made from paper flakes, baked earth,
rammed earth, clay, vermiculite, flax linnen, sisal, seegrass, expanded clay grains, coconut, wood
fibre plates, calcium sand stone, locally obtained stone and rock, and bamboo, which is one of the
strongest and fastest growing woody plants, and non-toxic low-VOC glues and paints.
Recycled materials[edit]


Recycling items for building
Sustainable architecture often incorporates the use of recycled or second hand materials, such
as reclaimed lumber and recycled copper. The reduction in use of new materials creates a
corresponding reduction in embodied energy (energy used in the production of materials). Often
sustainable architects attempt to retrofit old structures to serve new needs in order to avoid
unnecessary development. Architectural salvage and reclaimed materials are used when
appropriate. When older buildings are demolished, frequently any good wood is reclaimed, renewed,
and sold as flooring. Any good dimension stone is similarly reclaimed. Many other parts are reused
as well, such as doors, windows, mantels, and hardware, thus reducing the consumption of new
goods. When new materials are employed, green designers look for materials that are rapidly
replenished, such as bamboo, which can be harvested for commercial use after only 6 years of
growth,sorghum or wheat straw, both of which are waste material that can be pressed into panels,
or cork oak, in which only the outer bark is removed for use, thus preserving the tree. When
possible, building materials may be gleaned from the site itself; for example, if a new structure is
being constructed in a wooded area, wood from the trees which were cut to make room for the
building would be re-used as part of the building itself.
Lower volatile organic compounds[edit]
Low-impact building materials are used wherever feasible: for example, insulation may be made
from low VOC (volatile organic compound)-emitting materials such as recycled denim or cellulose
insulation, rather than the building insulation materials that may contain carcinogenic or toxic
materials such as formaldehyde. To discourage insect damage, these alternate insulation materials
may be treated with boric acid. Organic or milk-based paints may be used.
[16]
However, a common
fallacy is that "green" materials are always better for the health of occupants or the environment.
Many harmful substances (including formaldehyde, arsenic, and asbestos) are naturally occurring
and are not without their histories of use with the best of intentions. A study of emissions from
materials by the State of California has shown that there are some green materials that have
substantial emissions whereas some more "traditional" materials actually were lower emitters. Thus,
the subject of emissions must be carefully investigated before concluding that natural materials are
always the healthiest alternatives for occupants and for the Earth.
[17]

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) can be found in any indoor environment coming from a variety of
different sources. VOCs have a high vapor pressure and low water solubility, and are suspected of
causing sick building syndrome type symptoms. This is because many VOCs have been known to
cause sensory irritation and central nervous system symptoms characteristic to sick building
syndrome, indoor concentrations of VOCs are higher than in the outdoor atmosphere, and when
there are many VOCs present, they can cause additive and multiplicative effects.
Green products are usually considered to contain fewer VOCs and be better for human and
environmental health. A case study conducted by the Department of Civil, Architectural, and
Environmental Engineering at the University of Miami that compared three green products and their
non-green counterparts found that even though both the green products and the non-green
counterparts both emitted levels of VOCs, the amount and intensity of the VOCs emitted from the
green products were much safer and comfortable for human exposure.
[18]

Materials sustainability standards[edit]
Despite the importance of materials to overall building sustainability, quantifying and evaluating the
sustainability of building materials has proven difficult. There is little coherence in the measurement
and assessment of materials sustainability attributes, resulting in a landscape today that is littered
with hundreds of competing, inconsistent and often imprecise eco-
labels, standards and certifications. This discord has led both to confusion among consumers and
commercial purchasers and to the incorporation of inconsistent sustainability criteria in larger
building certification programs such as LEED. Various proposals have been made regarding
rationalization of the standardization landscape for sustainable building materials.
[19]

Waste management[edit]
Waste takes the form of spent or useless materials generated from households and businesses,
construction and demolition processes, and manufacturing and agricultural industries. These
materials are loosely categorized as municipal solid waste, construction and demolition (C&D)
debris, and industrial or agricultural by-products.
[20]
Sustainable architecture focuses on the on-site
use of waste management, incorporating things such as grey water systems for use on garden beds,
and composting toilets to reduce sewage. These methods, when combined with on-site food waste
composting and off-site recycling, can reduce a house's waste to a small amount of packaging
waste.This is the new techniques of sustainable architecture .
Building placement[edit]

This section does not cite any references or sources. Please help improve this
section by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be
challenged and removed. (March 2011)
One central and often ignored aspect of sustainable architecture is building placement. Although the
ideal environmental home or office structure is often envisioned as an isolated place, this kind of
placement is usually detrimental to the environment. First, such structures often serve as the
unknowing frontlines of suburban sprawl. Second, they usually increase the energy
consumption required for transportation and lead to unnecessary auto emissions. Ideally, most
building should avoid suburban sprawl in favor of the kind of light urban development articulated by
the New Urbanist movement. Careful mixed use zoning can make commercial, residential, and light
industrial areas more accessible for those traveling by foot, bicycle, or public transit, as proposed in
the Principles of Intelligent Urbanism. The study of Permaculture, in its holistic application, can also
greatly help in proper building placement that minimizes energy consumption and works with the
surroundings rather than against them, especially in rural and forested zones.
Sustainable building consulting[edit]
A sustainable building consultant may be engaged early in the design process, to forecast the
sustainability implications of building materials, orientation, glazing and other physical factors, so as
to identify a sustainable approach that meets the specific requirements of a project.
Norms and standards have been formalized by performance-based rating systems
e.g. LEED
[21]
and Energy Star for homes.
[22]
They define benchmarks to be met and
providemetrics and testing to meet those benchmarks. It is up to the parties involved in the project to
determine the best approach to meet those standards.
Changing pedagogies[edit]
Critics of the reductionism of modernism often noted the abandonment of the teaching of
architectural history as a causal factor. The fact that a number of the major players in the shift away
from modernism were trained at Princeton University's School of Architecture, where recourse to
history continued to be a part of design training in the 1940s and 1950s, was significant. The
increasing rise of interest in history had a profound impact on architectural education. History
courses became more typical and regularized. With the demand for professors knowledgeable in the
history of architecture, several PhD programs in schools of architecture arose in order to differentiate
themselves from art history PhD programs, where architectural historians had previously trained. In
the US, MIT and Cornell were the first, created in the mid-1970s, followed by Columbia, Berkeley,
andPrinceton. Among the founders of new architectural history programs were Bruno Zevi at the
Institute for the History of Architecture in Venice, Stanford Anderson and Henry Millon at MIT,
Alexander Tzonis at the Architectural Association, Anthony Vidler at Princeton, Manfredo Tafuri at
the University of Venice, Kenneth Frampton at Columbia University, and Werner Oechslin and Kurt
Forster at ETH Zrich.
[23]

The term sustainability in relation to architecture has so far been mostly considered through the
lens of building technology and its transformations. Going beyond the technical sphere of green
design, invention and expertise, some scholars are starting to position architecture within a much
broader cultural framework of the human interrelationship with nature. Adopting this framework
allows tracing a rich history of cultural debates about our relationship to nature and the environment,
from the point of view of different historical and geographical contexts.
[24]

Sustainable urbanism and architecture[edit]
Concurrently, the recent movements of New Urbanism and New Classical Architecture promote a
sustainable approach towards construction, that appreciates and develops smart
growth, architectural tradition and classical design.
[25][26]
This in contrast to modernist and globally
uniform architecture, as well as leaning against solitary housing estates andsuburban sprawl.
[27]
Both
trends started in the 1980s. The Driehaus Architecture Prize is an award that recognizes efforts in
New Urbanism and New Classical Architecture, and is endowed with a prize money twice as high as
that of the modernist Pritzker Prize.
[28]

Criticism[edit]
There are conflicting ethical, engineering, and political orientations depending on the viewpoints.
[29]





WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION?
Sustainable construction aims at reducing the environmental impact of a building over its entire lifetime, while
optimizing its economic viability and the comfort and safety of its occupants.













SUSTAINABLE BUILDING MATERIALS

Dimensional Lumber
DEFINITION:
Dimensional lumber refers to the wood used in constructing the wall, floor and roof framing of a house.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Most U.S. homes are constructed with wood framing. Although wood is a renewable resource, the
amount of wood required for construction purposes is taxing the regenerative capabilities of this
resource, as well as depleting a critical component in ecological balance. Trees affect water quality,
rainfall, and air quality, both in the immediate region and on a global scale.
Although the status of the wood resource is hotly debated, it is clear that expanding demand simply due
to population growth has or will have an impact on its long term viability. The reduction of primary forest
cover has spurred further debate on the management of the forests as balanced ecosystems. Some new
management approaches are based upon holistic sustainable principles. The principles of sustainability
which underpins the Green Builder Program favors forest management practices that retain natural forest
ecosystems.
Some of the options associated with this approach are difficult to implement. There are very few
certified sustainably managed wood sources and certifying groups are still in the process of determining
universal guidelines for certification. The active certifying organizations, listed at the end of this section,
have developed strong ecologically based criteria. Wood certified by the groups mentioned in this section
meets the criteria of the Green Builder Program.
Wood from old growth forests is not identified in final products, making the option of avoiding it very
difficult. Most of the old growth trees are in Redwood and Douglas Fir regions; however, wood of these
species exists that is not from old growth areas.
Southern wood species such as Yellow Pine are harvested in Texas. Using a regional species can provide
an economic benefit to the state and to our area. The growth/removal rate for Yellow Pine looks positive
for the future; although increased demand could cause problems. The increased use of engineered wood
from all species reduces waste and is beneficial. Additionally, using smaller dimensional wood (less than
210) allows smaller trees to be used which can be helpful in tree farming rotations (common to Yellow
Pine).

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Implementation
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Southern Softwood



Large Dimension



Old Growth



Certified



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Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
The ability to identify old growth wood in lumber is not standardized. Certified wood is just beginning to
be available on a national basis. The use of southern softwoods and smaller dimensional wood is
standard.
SUPPLIERS:
Suppliers of Yellow Pine wood species and smaller dimensioned lumber are common. Suppliers of
certified wood are rare on a national basis and not available locally.
COST:
Yellow Pine is competitively priced. Certified wood must be special ordered and shipped from limited out
of state sources. Unless ordered in large volume, the costs will be higher than standard lumber.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available, as long as code requirements are met.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Wood resource issues are not well known by the general public. Certified wood will appeal to a small
number of people.
REGULATORY:
Structural lumber must be graded and applied according to design values established by ASTM standards.

GUIDELINES
The framing materials discussed in this section have standard installation and construction requirements.
Certified wood has become more available over time. Certification organizations should indicate an
association with the Forest Stewardship Council (an international coalition promoting a common set of
principles and guidelines used to evaluate certifying organizations).


Wood Treatment
DEFINITION:
Wood treatment refers to protecting wood from damage caused by insects, moisture, and decay fungi.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Three primary methods of wood treatment currently prevail: creosote pressure-treated wood,
pentachlorophenol pressure-treated wood, and inorganic arsenical pressure-treated wood. The pressure-
treating process is done by commercial facilities and made available to users in the final wood product.
Copper napthenate, zinc napthenate, and tributyltin oxide are other wood treatment options that can be
site applied. All of these treatment processes involve dangerous chemicals .
Chromated copper arsenate (CCA) is the most popular wood treatment product available today. The
chemicals are inert within the material and offer protection from moisture and decay fungi. The chemicals
do not penetrate into the heartwood effectively so a sealer is advisable on cut ends of CCA treated wood.
Although CCA treated wood is sawn on jobsites, hardly anyone seals the cuts. All pressure treated
products require adherence to safety precautions approved by the EPA. The safety precautions are listed
in the Guidelines section.
EPA regulations govern the manufacture of pressure-treated materials and require extensive
environmental safety precautions. Wood treatment does offer a method to extend the usable life of our
wood resources.
The toxicity of the chemicals used in wood treatment has led to research into less toxic methods such as
the use of borates derived from the natural element boron (borax). Borates (from boron) are used in
wood in New Zealand and Australia and offer insect protection and fire retarding benefits to wood. Full-
scale commercial introduction of borates in the U.S. awaits resolution of the leaching problem of borates.
Since borates are water soluble, water dilutes them and leaves the wood unprotected from decay after a
period of time. In a location unexposed to water, they are effective in preserving wood; site applied
borate products are available.
Borate pressure-treated wood is being offered by one company in the U.S. (primarily for the Caribbean
market). They are promoting the concept of using borates for all the wood in a house. This eliminates the
need for termite protection by any other means and prevents decay fungi.
Ammoniacal copper quatenary (ACQ) is a new wood preservative currently being introduced. This
material employs preservative components that are listed in EPAs classification as General Use
pesticides. This is a less toxic material that CCA and it performs similarly.

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Wood Treatment



Legend

Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Borate treatment is not technologically mature in comparison with CCA treated wood. Leaching problems
must be resolved for borate treatment to substitute for CCA pressure-treated wood.
SUPPLIERS:
Suppliers of site-applied borate products are uncommon. Commercial application of borate treatment is
just becoming available.
COST:
Site-applied borate treatments exceed the cost of other chemical treatments due to shipping costs.
Borate pressure-treated material adds about $2,500 to the costs of an average sized frame house.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available if the borate treatment is code compliant.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
There is not widespead awareness of borate treatment. However, reduced health risk should be seen as
a positive characteristic.
REGULATORY:
Any wood within 6 inches of the finish grade must be factory treated or have natural resistance (e. g.
heartwood of cedar, redwood, or black locust). (See also Non-toxic Termite Control )

GUIDELINES
1.0 Precautions
It is required that this information be available to persons using Inorganic Arsenical Pressure-Treated
Wood (CCA), Pentachlorophenol Pressure-Treated Wood, Creosote Pressure-Treated Wood.
1.1 Generic Precautions for all three types
Do not use treated wood under circumstances where the preservative may come in contact with food or
animal feed, like food containers.
Do not use treated wood for cutting-boards or countertops.
Only treated wood that is visibly clean and free of surface residue should be used for patios, decks and
walkways.
Do not use treated wood for construction of those portions of beehives which may come into contact with
the honey.
Treated wood should not be used where it may come into direct or indirect contact with public drinking
water, except for uses involving incidental contact such as docks and bridges.
Dispose of treated wood by ordinary trash collection or burial. Treated wood should not be burned in
open fires or in stoves, fireplaces or residential boilers because toxic chemicals may be produced as part
of the smoke or ashes. Treated wood from commercial or industrial use (e.g., construction sites) may be
burned only in commercial or industrial incinerators or boilers in accordance with state and federal
regulations.
Avoid frequent or prolonged inhalation of sawdust from treated wood. When sawing and machining
treated wood, wear a dust mask. Whenever possible, these operations should be performed outdoors to
avoid indoor accumulations or airborne sawdust from treated wood.
When power-sawing and machining, wear goggles to protect eyes from flying particles.
Wash exposed areas thoroughly after working with the wood and before eating, drinking and use of
tobacco products.
If preservatives or sawdust accumulate on clothes, launder before reuse. Wash work clothes separately
from other household clothing.
1.2 Additional Precautions for Inorganic Arsenical Pressure-Treated Wood (CCA)
Wood pressure-treated with waterborne arsenical preservatives may be used inside residences as long as
all sawdust and construction debris are cleaned up and disposed of after construction.
1.3 Additional Precautions for Pentachlorophenol Pressure-Treated Wood
Logs treated with pentachlorophenol should not be used for log homes.
Wood treated with pentachlorophenol should not be used where it will be in frequent or prolonged
contact with bare skin (for example, chairs and other outdoor furniture), unless an effective sealer has
been applied.
Pentachlorophenol-treated wood should not be used in residential, industrial or commercial interiors
except for laminated beams or for building components which are in ground contact and are subject to
decay or insect infestation, and where two coats of an appropriate sealer are applied. Sealers may be
applied at the installation site.
Wood treated with pentachlorophenol may be used in the interiors of farm buildings which are in ground
contact and are subject to decay or insect infestation and where two coats of an appropriate sealer are
applied except where there may be direct contact with domestic animals or livestock which may crib
(bite) or lick the wood. Sealers may be applied at the installation site.
Do not use pentachlorophenol-treated wood for farrowing or brooding facilities.
Do not use pentachlorophenol-treated wood where it may come into direct or indirect contact with
drinking water for domestic animals or livestock, except for uses involving incidental contact such as
docks and bridges.
Urethane, shellac, latex, epoxy, enamel and varnish are acceptable sealers for pentachlorophenol-treated
wood.
1.4 Additional Precautions for Creosote Pressure-Treated Wood
Wood treated with creosote should not be used where it will be in frequent or prolonged contact with
bare skin (for example, chairs and other outdoor furniture), unless an effective sealer has been applied.
Creosote-treated wood should not be used in residential interiors. Creosote-treated wood may be used in
interiors of industrial building components which are in ground contact and are subject to decay or insect
infestation. For such uses, two coats of an appropriate sealer must be applied. Sealers may be applied at
the installation site.
Creosote-treated wood may be used in interiors of farm buildings for building components which are in
ground contact and are subject to decay or insect infestation, and if two coats of an effective sealer are
applied except where there may be direct contact with domestic animals or livestock which may crib
(bite) or lick the wood. Sealers may be applied at the installation site.
Do not use creosote-treated wood for farrowing or brooding facilities.
Do not use creosote-treated wood where it may come into direct or indirect contact with drinking water
for domestic animals or livestock, except for uses involving incidental contact such as docks and bridges.
Avoid frequent or prolonged skin contact with creosote-treated wood; when handling the treated wood,
wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants and use gloves impervious to the chemicals (for example, gloves
that are vinyl-coated).
Coal tar pitch and coal tar pitch emulsion are effective sealers for creosote-treated wood block flooring.
Urethane, epoxy, and shellac are acceptable sealers for all creosote-treated wood.
2.0 Borate site-applied products
2.1 Impel Rods
Available in various sizes in a glass rod.
Holes are drilled in the wood and the rods are inserted according to manufacturers calculations that
considers the size of the wood and the amount of boric acid needed to protect the wood.
The rods contain boric acid that is absorbed by the wood when the moisture content of the wood
exceeds 25%. The boric acid penetrates heartwood and sapwood stopping decay. When wood is dry the
boric acid is inactive.
Example: In logs, of 8 inch diameter, one rod per linear foot is needed (rod size is 3/4x3)
2.2 Auro Borax Wood Impregnation No. 111
Effective against fungus, preventive against insects, suitable for brush application, spray application, or
dipping.
Must be diluted according to method of application, type of wood, and wood moisture content.
Is corrosive in solution.
2.3 Tim-Bor
Available in a powder form.
Can be applied to wet lumber (over 20% moisture).
Can be dipped or sprayed.
2.4 Bora-Care
Available in a liquid form.
Includes a glycol solution that helps diffusion.
Can be dipped or sprayed.
3.0 ACQ
Used the same as CCA preserved material.
Currently unavailable in Texas and is more costly than CCA.
4.0 CCA
Available as Type A, B, and C. Type C is recommended as superior in resisting leaching.
CCA preserved wood does not properly fix in wood in cold weather. If buying CCA treated wood in the
winter (and the wood was treated in the winter), use extra care in handling and applying since leaching
of the CCA is possible, posing an environmental and health risk. When buying CCA treated wood in warm
weather (above 70 degrees ), the chemicals should be fixed in the wood in 3-4 days.
Protect CCA wood with a sealer from UV degradation.
5.0 Other Chemical Treatments
ACA (ammoniacal copper arsenate); ACZA (ammoniacal copper zinc arsenate); ACC (acid copper
chromate); CZC (chromated zinc chloride). These lesser known water borne preservatives are used in
hard-to-penetrate woods. Safety precautions are needed.
6.0 Decay resistant domestic woods
Along with cedar and redwood, the following woods are considered resistant or very resistant to decay:
bald cypress (old growth), catalpa, black cherry, chestnut, Arizona cypress, junipers, black locust,
mesquite, red mulberry, burr oak, chestnut oak, gambrel oak, Oregon white oak, post oak, white oak,
osage orange, sassafras, black walnut, Pacific yew.
7.0 Borate Pressure-Treated Lumber
One supplier currently in United States. (see Resources).
Any wood engineered, sheathing, dimensional can be treated by this method.
When all wood is treated in house, it will add approximately $2500 to cost.
Eliminates need for termite treatments and maintenance calls.
Penetrates heartwood (CCA does not).
Non-toxic for handling, cutting, and disposal.
Does not need to be site-treated on cut ends (CCA does).
Cannot be used in ground or water contact.


Engineered Structural Materials
DEFINITION:
Engineered structural products are recycled/reconstituted wood materials that employ laminated wood
chips or strands and fingerjointing (the gluing of larger pieces together).

CONSIDERATIONS:
These materials fall into the general category of engineered wood. This means that the tolerances in
stability, consistency, straightness, and strength are more precise than dimensional lumber, making the
products easier to work with. In joist and rafter applications, the reconstituted products are particularly
useful for long spans without bowing or lateral movement.
These materials drastically minimize the amount of waste created in processing the raw materials. Waste
wood and entire trees, regardless of species, shape, and age, can be used in making these products.
Fingerjointed studs reduce waste in two ways. Short pieces that normally would be unusable are
combined rather than disposed and the engineered quality of fingerjointed materials eliminate warping or
cracking. The strength of the joints in good quality material is such that the solid wood portions will be
more likely to break than the adhered fingerjoint.

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Recycled/Reconstituted Wood




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Well developed.
SUPPLIERS:
Dealers exist in Austin for I-beams and laminated materials and all local suppliers can order these
materials. Fingerjointed structural material is not readily available locally.
COST:
Mostly equal to solid sawn wood. When labor savings and reduced job site waste are considered, the cost
is highly competitive. Engineered wood products should be more stable in price than dimensional lumber.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Environmentally aware and/or quality conscious individuals may prefer these materials. Not objectionable
to the general public, however.
REGULATORY:
None, when used to manufacturers approved specifications.

GUIDELINES
1.0 I-Beams
Reconstituted web material, typically of OSB (oriented-strand board), and solid wood flanges.Flanges
should not be cut or notched.
Should be stored on edge in a vertical position.
Blocking or stiffeners will be needed in ridges, cantilevers, and other specific load bearing locations.
2.0 Laminated Beams
Can be nailed or bolted together to form multiple member beams for heavy load requirements.
3.0 Fingerjointed studs
May replace conventional studs; will not twist.



Engineered Sheet Materials

DEFINITION:
Engineered sheet materials can be made of recycled-content or reconstituted materials.
Recycled content sheet products include any percentage of recycled material. Products that use recycled
newsprint, agricultural byproducts, or wood waste are considered recycled content materials.
Reconstituted materials use chipped or stranded small-diameter trees as their wood source. This material
is then bound together into forms suitable for building.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Products exist that contain recycled post-consumer paper, by-product gypsum and recovered gypsum,
wood waste, wood chips from non-commercial trees, and annually-renewable agricultural fibers. These
materials include: hardboard made from waste wood; wallboard made from perlite, gypsum, and recycled
post-consumer newsprint; 100% recycled newsprint fiberboard; and fiberboard made from straw.
Some of these materials need to be kept dry during the construction process. Binders used in some of
these materials may outgas. It is best to avoid materials that contain urea formaldehyde. Phenol
formaldehyde is predominantly used in materials for exterior applications. where its lower outgassing
qualities are not considered health threatening.. Most of these materials are installed/applied in the same
manner as the traditional products (plywood), therefore labor estimates are comparable. Oriented-strand
board (OSB) is a reconstituted material that is now commonly used.

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Subflooring



Sheathing



Wallboard



Agricultural By-Product



Decking




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Many of these technologies are relatively simple; gypsum has been recycled and reused for many years
and newsprint recycling is also a mature technology. Most of these products, such as oriented strand
board, are derived from manufacturing processes which are more material-efficient than past processes.
Much of the newer recycled-content and reconstituted materials are fabricated in modern facilities that
are efficient and compliant with strict environmental regulations.
SUPPLIERS:
Few of these products, other than OSB and laminated wastepaper sheathing, are currently available
locally.
COST:
Many of these sheet materials currently cost more then traditional sheet materials, although the oriented
strand board and laminated wastepaper sheathing are price competitive. Shipping costs for small
quantities can be prohibitively expensive.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Acceptance of these products is good. When oriented-strand board products first appeared on the
market, many people confused them with particle board ( an indoor use only product) because of its
similar appearance. The negative reaction stemming from this confusion has been overcome. These
products are comparable in appearance with the ones they replace, and since they are covered in places
where they are used, their appearance ceases to be an issue. There is a high appreciation and an
increasing demand for least-toxic products. The recycled-content of these materials enhances their
appeal.
REGULATORY:
Meets code requirements.

GUIDELINES
Most of these materials come in standard dimensions, are applied with standard fasteners, and can be
worked with regular carpentry tools.
Some products might require specific structural spacing and support. This information is supplied by the
manufacturer.
Some of the interior finish sheet product alternatives to gypsum sheetrock do not require taping and
floating.
Look for the recycling symbol on theses products.
100% recycled content is available in some foil-backed materials.
Comments regarding specific products are found in the Resources section where they are listed.


Engineered Siding
DEFINITION:
Engineered materials refer to the more efficient (less wasteful) process of using wood or other cellulose
fibers bonded together to make a material shape. Reconstituted materials are more dense and offer
increased longevity. Some products have wood fibers mixed with cement to form extremely durable
exterior (fiber-cement) materials.
Fingerjointed material consists of using shorter pieces of wood glued together to make a longer piece.
This technology makes use of wood that could previously be considered waste.
Recycled-content materials include substances that are salvaged from the waste stream such as sawdust
and paper.
Tropical hardwood refers to wood harvested from the tropical forests that are being harvested in a
destructive manner.
Recycled trim refers to the reuse of trim salvaged from building demolition.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Reconstituted and recycled-content (engineered) siding materials offer superior longevity over wood
siding. The increased density of the materials resists cracking and other deterioration. Fiber-cement
materials, for example, offer very long warranties and have zero flamespread.
Steel and aluminum siding materials are predominantly fabricated from recycled material. Although the
embodied energy is high when the materials are originally made, they require much less energy in a
recycled form. They can also be recycled again after use in a building.
The use of domestic hardwoods for moldings and trim is noted since domestic hardwood trees are
maturing at a faster rate than they are being removed (positive growth-removal rate).
Using recycled trim reuses trim in its same form, achieving the most resourceful recycling. Since trim is
not structural, it is acceptable to use it in new construction. It will require going to different sources for
material such as salvage businesses, and finding a large enough quantity of the same style can be
challenging.
A very small percentage of tropical wood is sustainably managed and most of that is being used in
furniture. The Resources section will note tropical species that are being sustainably managed.
There is not a problem with weak points in quality fingerjointed materials. For aesthetic reasons,
fingerjointed material would go best where it will be painted.

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Trim



No Tropical Hardwood



Fingerjointed Trim



Domestic Hardwood



Recycled Trim



Reconstituted Trim




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
The technology involved with these items is well-developed. There will be more reconstituted/recycled
content materials entering the market.
SUPPLIERS:
Recycled-content materials are available primarily in aluminum. Reconstituted materials are available
primarily in hardboards. All trim options are available including recycled trim. Fiber-cement siding is
available.
COST:
Competitive.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
There is not a financing issue.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Highly durable engineered siding products are desirable.
REGULATORY:
Exterior wall coverings code regulations are presented in the 1992 CABO code Section R-503. Products
purchased for siding must be installed according to the manufacturers instructions.

GUIDELINES
Fiber-cement materials can be worked with woodworking tools.
Fiber-cement materials need an alkali resistant paint when painted. Some fiber-cement materials can be
used unpainted if handled carefully to avoid scratching.
Fiber-cement materials are not brittle like earlier asbestos products.
Comments on products are included in the Resources Section.


Flyash Concrete

DEFINITION:
Flyash is defined in Cement and Concrete Terminology (ACI Committee 116) as the finely divided
residue resulting from the combustion of ground or powdered coal, which is transported from the firebox
through the boiler by flue gases. Flyash is a by-product of coal-fired electric generating plants.
Two classifications of flyash are produced, according to the type of coal used. Anthracite and bituminous
coal produces flyash classified as Class F. Class C flyash is produced by burning lignite or subbituminous
coal. Class C flyash is preferable for the applications presented in the Green Building Guide and is the
main type offered for residential applications from ready-mix suppliers.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Flyash is one of three general types of coal combustion byproducts (CCBPs). The use of these
byproducts offers environmental advantages by diverting the material from the wastestream, reducing
the energy investment in processing virgin materials, conserving virgin materials, and allaying pollution.
Thirteen million tons of coal ash are produced in Texas each year. Eleven percent of this ash is used
which is below the national average of 30 %. About 60 70% of central Texas suppliers offer flyash in
ready-mix products. They will substitute flyash for 20 35% of the portland cement used to make their
products.
Although flyash offers environmental advantages, it also improves the performance and quality of
concrete. Flyash affects the plastic properties of concrete by improving workability, reducing water
demand, reducing segregation and bleeding, and lowering heat of hydration. Flyash increases strength,
reduces permeability, reduces corrosion of reinforcing steel, increases sulphate resistance, and reduces
alkali-aggregate reaction. Flyash reaches its maximum strength more slowly than concrete made with
only portland cement. The techniques for working with this type of concrete are standard for the industry
and will not impact the budget of a job.
This section also addresses wall-form products. Most of these products have hollow interiors and are
stacked or set in place and then filled with steel-reinforced concrete creating a concrete structure for a
house.
Some wall-form materials are made from EPS (expanded polystyrene) which is a lightweight non-CFC
foam material. There are also fiber-cement wall-form products that can contain wood waste. The
EPS/concrete systems offer high insulating qualities and easy installation. The fiber-cement blocks offer
insulating qualities as well. Some EPS products also have recycled content.

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Cementitous Structure



Flyash Concrete



Recycled Content Block



Concrete Finish Floor



Concrete Interior Wall




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Flyash used in concrete is a mature technology. Thirty percent of the flyash in the US is recycled into
making concrete. The use of flyash concrete in structural applications such as wall-forms is standard
technology. The use of recycled-content block, in particular fiber-cement, as part of a structural
foundation system using flyash concrete is still early in development.
SUPPLIERS:
Approximately 60-70% of central Texas ready-mix suppliers offer flyash concrete. Some suppliers provide
it automatically, others give a choice. Recycled-content fiber-cement block should become more available
as a regional distributor has been established. EPS wall-form materials are locally and regionally available.
COST:
Flyash concrete is the same price as ordinary concrete without flyash. EPS wall-form products provide a
cost-effective wall. Fiber-cement wall-form cost approximately $3.50 per square foot of wall surface.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
There is a small segment of the population that is fearful of flyash being inferior or unhealthful. U.S. EPA
information indicates there is not a health threat, especially in the portions found in ready-mix products
and with western coal (which is the primary source of local flyash).
A concrete finish floor may sound less desirable aesthetically to some persons. However, coloring,
scoring, and texturing techniques can be very attractive.
Wall-form products should be well-received.
REGULATORY:
Flyash concrete meets applicable codes. Products making use of flyash concrete must indicate having met
applicable ASTM test requirements. This information will be provided by the supplier.

GUIDELINES
1.0 Specification for flyash
Flyash for use in portland cement concrete shall conform to the requirements of ASTM C 618, Standard
Specification for Flyash and Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan Class C Flyash for use as a Mineral
Admixture in Portland Cement. Specifically, it shall conform to all requirements of Table 1 and Table 2 as
outlined therein.
The concrete supplier shall furnish a notarized certificate from the flyash marketer at the time of
submittal of concrete mix designs for approval indicating conformance with these requirements. Also, a
copy of the most recent chemical analysis shall be provided.
At no time during the course of the project will a change of flyash source (plant) be permitted without
the prior written consent of the Engineer or Architect. For sulfate environments, only Class F flyash will
be permitted and under no circumstances will Class C flyash be used.
2.0 Flyash use.
Class F flyash will typically require an air entraining agent to be added. Class C flyash will not.
Standard concrete procedures can be employed.
3.0 Flyash concrete in poured concrete permanent wall-forms
The use of these systems eliminates the need for conventional framing on exterior walls.
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) wall-formsSome feature interlocking features and stack like blocks. Some are
in rigid panels on interior and exterior connected by metal or steel ties.
EPS blocks are typically stacked as exterior walls. Rebar is placed in the cores vertically and horizontally.
The cores are poured full of concrete from the top.
Manufacturers claim R-values of R-30 or greater.
Specify that the foam is protected from insects. Insects will not eat the foam but will nest in it. Borate
treatment is preferable.
Urethane block wall-form products are also available. These contain CFCs/HCFCs.
Fiber-cement wall forms.Can use waste wood; will not burn; insect resistant; will not support
condensation.
Approximately R-12 ratings in 9 inch block.
Hollow cores are filled with steel reinforced concrete.


Non Toxic Termite Control

DEFINITION:
Non-toxic termite control is the use of termite prevention and control without chemical use. Instead,
physical controls are installed during construction such as sand barriers or metal termite shields. If
termite infestation does occur, least toxic methods of treatment are used.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Most areas of Texas have termites. These include subterranean termites that live in the soil and drywood
termites that attack dry wood. According to the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, there is a greater
than 70 percent probability that wooden structures in Texas will be attacked by termites within 10 to 20
years. Termite problems within one year after construction have been reported.
When wood is used as a building material, termite prevention in the form of treated wood or naturally
resistant wood will be required by building codes. Typically, chromated copper arsenate (CCA) pressure-
treated wood is used. Two alternative chemical substances have gained popularity as more toxic
substances such as chlordane have been banned for soil treatment. These include organophosphates and
pyrethroids. However, these chemicals are toxic to people as well as termites, and can offgas and leach
out into the soil and water table. They can be absorbed through the skin, lungs and through ingestion.
Exposure to small children, workers, chemically-sensitive individuals and animals can lead to serious
health problems.
Less toxic wood treatments are available. (See Wood Treatment Section.) However, alternatives to
wood treatment and chemical treatment can be quite effective. Least-toxic strategies must be used in
combination to achieve maximum effectiveness. Few pest control managers expect non-toxic methods to
completely replace chemical use. However, they offer considerable potential for the reduction of chemical
use, and may prevent such use in all but extreme situations.

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sand barrier, termite shields




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Research and monitoring is underway to test the effectiveness of non-toxic termite prevention
techniques. The USDA Southern Forest Experiment Station in Gulfport, Mississippi, and the University of
Hawaii are doing research. Successful laboratory results have been obtained with the use of properly
designed sand barriers. Pest control professionals in California have adapted and tested sand barriers
with good results. Some studies in California have found some physical barriers to be 15% more effective
than chemical treatments.
SUPPLIERS:
There are architects and pest management companies in Austin that can provide expertise and services
in non-toxic termite prevention and control. However, not all professionals currently have knowledge or
experience with non-toxic termite control.
COST:
Initial costs of non-toxic termite prevention may be 25% higher than chemical controls. However, these
costs may be offset due to the long term nature of structural solutions. In addition, cost offsets can occur
if traditional fill material is replaced with sand or cinder barriers, preventing the need for termiticides.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Lenders will typically look for traditional methods for the prevention of termites, such as the use of
treated wood. Educating lenders about the effectiveness of non-toxic prevention measures and
encouraging financing incentives for their use is a goal of the Green Builder Program.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
For successful termite prevention using non-toxic methods, education and cooperation between the
professional and the resident/owner will be necessary. Increased monitoring after construction will be
necessary.
REGULATORY:
Building codes (such as Section R-310 of the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code) call for
protection by chemical soil treatment, pressure-treated wood, naturally termite-resistant wood (such as
heartwood of redwood and eastern red cedar), or physical barriers approved by the building official in
areas with subterranean termites. Approved combinations of methods may be used.
For decay prevention, any wood (siding, trim, framing) within 6 inches of the finished grade must be
protected. Additionally, wood girders within 12 inches, wood structural floor within 18 inches, and wood
sills on masonry slabs within 8 inches must also be protected. Decay prevention and termite protection
are addressed jointly with wood treatment and naturally resistant wood. Structural controls for termites
such as sand barriers and termite shields will not eliminate the need for decay prevention in wood within
the distances from the ground mentioned above.
The Honolulu building code was rewritten in 1991 to include the use of sand barriers instead of chemical
controls. The City of Austin will examine precedents accepted by other jurisdictions on a case-by-case
basis.

GUIDELINES
Any pest management program that uses the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), or least
toxic methods, will have the following components:
Integration of least-toxic treatment methods and materials;
Monitoring;
Detection and identification.
No method of termite treatment can be assumed to be 100% effective. In homes with wood as a
construction material, regular inspections should be performed, regardless of treatment and prevention
methods. The best method is non-toxic prevention, however there are also non-toxic treatment methods
if termites are found.
1.0 Prevention
The only sure prevention of termite problems is the use of building materials other than wood. However,
if wood is used, there are preventative measures available to the builder other than chemical treatments
and treated wood products. A common tree in Austin known to resist termites is the familiar mountain
cedar (actually a member of the juniper family). Although not commercially lumbered, natural cedar posts
have traditionally been used as foundation piers on old structures, and extensively for fences and
furniture. The use of juniper wood has some potential for application as a termite and insect resistant
wood.Eliminating sources of chronic moisture in the home is one of the most important factors in
managing subterranean termites, carpenter ants, and some wood boring beetles. Moist soil is necessary
for termites to survive. Termites travel back and forth between soil and food sources because they must
obtain moisture from the soil. In addition, capillary action and water vapor buildup can result in excessive
dampness which can actually wick through a concrete slab or masonry foundation to the wood framing
above it, thus attracting termites.
In above-ground foundations, moisture barrier films such as 6 mil polyethylene can be used to cover the
area under the structure. This will help decrease moisture buildup in sub-flooring. Foundation wall vents
should be placed to provide cross ventilation for homes with crawl spaces. If re-grading or remodeling
covers vents, additional vents may be needed. Some experts recommend the use of moisture barriers
under slab foundations as well.
Soil should always be from 6 to 18 inches below any wood member, the greater the distance, the better.
Good siting and drainage design will help to prevent moisture buildup in and around the structure. All
exterior grades should slope away from the structure to provide drainage. Porches and features such as
planter boxes should be constructed and sealed to prevent moisture and soil contact with the structure.
Exterior landscaping should not cause moisture build-up around the foundation. A small air space should
be retained between plant leaves and walls to prevent moisture and mold build-up. Automatic irrigation
heads should be properly aligned or shielded to prevent direct spray onto the building.
Areas subject to moisture build-up, such as bathrooms, should be given special attention since they are
likely to be attack areas. Areas under tubs and drains leading to the exterior (such as air conditioner
drains) should be considered vulnerable spots.
All wood-to-soil and wood-to-concrete contacts should be eliminated for fence and deck posts, rail
supports, and trellises etc. Posts should be placed in metal holders (commercially available). Even treated
deck piers may not deter termites since they may bypass the treated piers to reach untreated decking
above.
All wood subject to moisture, especially exterior wood, should be properly sealed. Exterior windows, even
if under an overhang such as a porch, should be completely moisture sealed. Exterior siding, especially
along the bottom wall edges, should be completely moisture sealed on all exposed surfaces.
All lumber scraps, wood debris and stumps should be removed from the site after construction is
complete. Backfill under a foundation should never contain wood scraps, and scrap should never be left
in crawlspaces or under foundations. Such scraps are invitations to termites to eat first the scrap and
then move on to the main structure.
2.0 Sand Barriers
Sand barriers for subterranean termites are a physical deterrent because the termites cannot tunnel
through it. Sand barriers can be applied in crawl spaces under pier and beam foundations, under slab
foundations, and between the foundation and concrete porches, terraces, patios and steps. Other
possible locations include under fence posts, underground electrical cables, water and gas lines,
telephone and electrical poles, inside hollow tile cells and against retaining walls.
Sixteen grit sand or cinder is placed in a 20-inch band on the soil surface or in trenches next to
foundation walls. The sand layer should be 4 inches thick at the foundation, and feathered out to meet
grade at the outer edge of the 20-inch band. For trench installations, trenches should be 4 deep and 6
wide.
Some integrated pest management experts have developed a machine, called a sand pump, that blows
sand under the house. For sand barriers around the outside perimeter of a foundation, they recommend
a sand trench in order to avoid disturbance of the sand. In addition, a cap made of masonry or other
materials may be recommended to protect the barrier from gardening, animals, etc. Tamping of sand can
be done to increase impermeability to termite attack.
2.1 Slab Barriers
Termites can easily pass through small cracks, as small as 1/32, which may occur in slab foundations.
For sand barriers in conjunction with slab foundations, the sand or cinder must be applied before the
foundation is poured. Installing the sand layer of the appropriate mesh size followed by a layer of coarser
gravel for grading to the desired level has worked well. To cut costs, sand treatments may be installed in
particularly vulnerable areas of the slab, such as around pipe penetrations, as opposed to under the
entire slab.
Costs for cinder fill under a slab can often be competitive with the costs of standard fill and the initial
chemical termite treatment.
2.2 Sand Selection
The size of sand particles is critical to the success of sand barriers. Sand or grit size should be no larger
or smaller than that able to sift through a 16-mesh screen. Sand smaller than 16-grit can be carried away
by termite workers; larger sand can support tunnel construction by termites. If the sand to be used has
some particles smaller than 16-mesh size, sand can be screened with mesh of the appropriate size.
Certain grades of sandblasting sand which come in bags may be suitable for barriers. Crushed volcanic
cinder of the appropriate size is recommended by some experts.
2.3 Performance
Sand barriers can also be used to repair seals that have become broken between foundations and other
building elements such as porches. Such settling and breaking of cold joint seals can occur due to
subsidence and temperature extremes. In laboratory tests, sand was shown to retain its seal against
structural members after movement similar to earthquakes. Although earthquakes are not a problem in
our area, soil movement and settling due to expansive soils is often a problem.
Use of sand barriers is still experimental, and must be followed with post-installation as well as regular
inspections. Sand barriers may cost 25 % more than conventional chemical treatments, however the
physical barrier will provide long term protection. Chemical prevention is normally guaranteed for only
one year, and introduces toxins into the home environment.
3.0 Metal Termite Shields
Metal termite shields are physical barriers to termites which prevent them from building invisible tunnels.
In reality, metal shields function as a helpful termite detection device, forcing them to build tunnels on
the outside of the shields which are easily seen. Metal termite shields also help prevent dampness from
wicking to adjoining wood members which can result in rot, thus making the material more attractive to
termites and other pests.
Metal shields are used in conjunction with concrete or solid masonry walls, and are fabricated of sheet
metal which is unrolled and attached over the foundation walls. The edges are then bent at a 45 degree
angle. Metal shields must be very tightly constructed, and all joints must be completely sealed. Any gaps
in the seals will allow an entry point for termites. Joints may be sealed by soldering, or with a tar-like
bituminous compound.
Metal flashing and metal plates can also be used as a barrier between piers and beams of structures such
as decks, which are particularly vulnerable to termite attack.
4.0 Monitoring, Detection and Identification
The Bio-Integral Resource Center (see Resources, General Assistance) recommends the following steps:
1. Monitor the building at least once per year.
2. Identify the species of termite.
3. Correct structural conditions that led to the infestation.
4. Apply physical or biological controls.
5. Spot treat with chemicals if necessary.
6. Check for effectiveness and repeat if required.
Regular termite monitoring should be done with a plan of the structure in hand. This will help to identify
inaccessible areas that may be hard to spot with a visual inspection. Annual or bi-annual inspections are
recommended.
Subterranean termites build characteristic mud tubes for movement between nests. The appearance of
these tubes are often the first sign of infestation. Detection can become difficult if such tubes are hidden
inside walls, or termites are entering in cracks occurring in concrete slabs or foundations.
Dogs are being used by some individuals to aid in termite inspection. These dogs are trained to detect
termites and other wood damaging insects, and can provide information about inaccessible areas of the
structure. Their keen sense of smell coupled with their ability to wriggle into areas too small for human
access can make the dog-assisted inspection a valuable tool.
5.0 Termite treatment
The first step in any termite treatment is accurate identification of the species. Next, location of nests
must be found. Next, selection of a combination of least toxic strategies and tactics is necessary.
When selecting a pest management company, be sure to choose a reliable firm. Texas law requires
commercial pesticide applicators to be certified. Check for certification documentation, references, and
work experience, or check with the Structural Pest Control Board of Texas. Ask if the company practices
integrated pest management techniques, or has an experimental license which may be necessary for
some alternative techniques.
Non-toxic treatments include use of nematodes (microscopic worms), especially for chemically-sensitive
individuals or environmentally-sensitive areas. Nematodes are pumped into the infested area, where they
will kill the insects. Boric acid bait blocks can be placed around the structure, where they will attract the
pests to consume termiticides without broad application of chemicals. Drywood termites can be treated
with thermal, freezing, or electrical eradication techniques. Desiccating dusts, non-toxic substances
resulting in pest dehydration and death, have also been used successfully on drywood termites.
These treatments can be combined with others, such as installing metal shields (if they have not been
used previously), sealing of broken seals or open areas, and re-grading of soil outside the foundation to
improve drainage or create a gap between soil and wood areas such as siding. In addition, termites can
be physically removed by trapping or nest excavation.

Earth Materials

DEFINITIONS:
The type of materials available locally will of course vary depending upon the conditions in the area of
the building site.
In many areas, indigenous stone is available from the local region, such as limestone, marble, granite,
and sandstone. It mat be cut in quarries or removed from the surface of the ground (flag and fieldstone).
Ideally, stone from the building site can be utilized. Depending on the stone type, it can be used for
structural block, facing block, pavers, and crushed stone.
Most brick plants are located near the clay source they use to make brick. Bricks are molded and baked
blocks of clay. Brick products come in many forms, including structural brick, face brick, roof tile,
structural tile, paving brick, and floor tile.
Caliche is a soft limestone material which is mined from areas with calcium-carbonate soils and limestone
bedrock. It is best known as a road bed material, but it can be processed into an unfired building block,
stabilized with an additive such as cement. Other earth materials include soil blocks typically stabilized
with a cement additive and produced with forms or compression.
Rammed Earth consists of walls made from moist, sandy soil, or stabilized soil, which is tamped into form
work. Walls are a minimum of 12 thick. Soils should contain about 30% clay and 70% sand.

CONSIDERATIONS:
The use of locally available and indigenous earth materials has several advantages in terms of
sustainability. They are:
Reduction of energy costs related to transportation.
Reduction of material costs due to reduced transportation costs, especially for well-established
industries.
Support of local businesses and resource bases.
Care must be taken to ensure that non-renewable earth materials are not over-extracted. Ecological
balance within the region needs to be maintained while efficiently utilizing its resources. Many local
suppliers carry materials that have been shipped in from out of the area, so it is important to ask for
locally produced/quarried materials.
Both brick and stone materials are aesthetically pleasing, durable, and low maintenance. Exterior walls
weather well, eliminating the need for constant refinishing and sealing. Interior use of brick and stone
can also provide excellent thermal mass, or be used to provide radiant heat. Some stone and brick makes
an ideal flooring or exterior paving material, cool in summer and possessing good thermal properties for
passive solar heating. Caliche block has been produced for applications similar to stone and brick
mentioned above. Caliche or earth material block has special structural and finishing characteristics.
Rammed earth is more often considered for use in walls, although it can also be used for floors. Rammed
earth and caliche block can be used for structural walls, and offer great potential as low-cost material
alternatives with low embodied energy. In addition, such materials are fireproof.
Caliche block and rammed earth can be produced on-site. It is very important to have soils tested for
construction material use. Some soils, such as highly expansive or bentonite soils, are not suitable for
structural use. Testing labs are available in most areas to determine material suitability for structural use
and meeting codes.
Soils for traditional adobe construction are not found in some areas, but other soils for earth building
options are available. Many areas have a high percentage of soils suitable for ramming (approximately
19,610 acres in the Austin, TX area, according to the US. Department of Agriculture). Caliche is also
abundant in many areas (covering 14 % of the Austin geographic area, for instance) and is readily
available locally.

Commercial
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Satisfactory

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Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Stone cutting, brick production and masonry techniques are mature technologies. Rammed earth and
caliche block construction are not well known by most builders and architects today, although there are
some architects and builders who are experienced with these materials.
SUPPLIERS:
There are numerous suppliers of indigenous stone and local brick in many regions. Caliche block and
rammed earth are not available commercially, but can be created on site. There are contractors who can
provide machinery for manufacturing compressed soil block, and in some places such block is
commercially available.
COST:
Brick: approximately $2.00 per square foot (4 inch material) and up depending on thickness. Stone:
$4.00 to $15.00 per square foot (material) depending on type. Compressed soil block: approximately
$1.80 per square foot (9 inches thick). Earth block made from labor intensive methods cost significantly
less.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Stone and brick materials do not pose a problem for lending institutions, and are often valued positively
for increased property value and fire rating. Rammed earth, compressed soil block, and caliche block may
pose problems for traditional financing. Proper testing and building code compliance will assist lenders in
accepting their products.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Stone and brick construction are considered desirable, although their use for interior thermal mass is not
common in many areas. Rammed earth and caliche block are little known, and may not currently receive
wide public acceptance.
REGULATORY:
In structural applications, materials must be rated for appropriate load requirements. Unfired caliche
blocks can easily pass Unified Building Code standards for compression with an average of 960 p.s.i.
Rammed earth and caliche block construction will require a building code review if used structurally.
Regulatory acceptance will be based on precedents for the material as accepted in other jurisdictions
and/or upon independent tests that demonstrate methods and performance required by code for
masonry materials are satisfied.

GUIDELINES

1.0 Stone
Stone construction practices are fairly standard. We do not recommend any stone applications that would
require non-traditional methods. Attention needs to be paid to the load capacity of foundations and
footings due to the excessive weight of the material. Veneers need non-combustible support such as
concrete grade beams or footings. Pay particular attention to grade beams when designing interior stone
wall applications. Anchoring of veneers must follow Uniform Building Code (UBC) guidelines.
1.2 Indigenous Stone Description
Limestone: A rock that is formed chiefly by the accumulation of organic remains (shells or coral),
consist mainly of calcium carbonate.
Marble: Crystallized limestone, ranges from granular to compact in texture.
Granite: A very hard igneous rock formation of visibly crystalline texture formed essentially of
quartz and orthoclase or microcline.
Sandstone: A sedimentary rock consisting usually of quartz sand combined with some binding
elements such as silica or calcium carbonate.
Flagstone: A hard, evenly stratified stone that splits into flat pieces suitable for paving.
Fieldstone: Stone in unaltered form as taken from the field.

2.0 Brick
The same guidelines in Section 1.0 above also apply to brick masonry.
Brick has value as a recyclable material. Used brick, available through local salvage companies, is often
desired for its weathered, antique appearance. In addition, brick seconds or brick that is damaged can be
crushed and recycled and either returned to the manufacturing process to make more brick, or used as a
landscaping material in its crushed form.
Some American brick manufacturers are making brick with sewage sludge. Sludge material is mixed with
clay normally used in the manufacturing process. The resulting brick is equally attractive and strong.
Another alternative material for brick production is petroleum contaminated soils. Such soils, when
combined with clay and fired at very high temperatures, yield brick which is free from hydrocarbon
contamination.

3.0 Soils for Rammed Earth, Caliche Block, and Soil Material
Construction
Soils that qualify for both Compressed Earth Block and Rammed Earth are common in many areas.
Consider that most of the continents are granitic and decomposed granite is normally perfect having the
ratios of feldspars to quartz that are appropriate for compaction. Basaltic soils are a little more difficult
and many times require additional clay added. The basic formula is 30% clay and the balance loam and
small aggregate. Caliche (which is usually a misnomer for decomposed limestone soils) is the common
subsoil of the alluvial plain which dominates the south Texas landscape, much of the Midwest and most
of the deep south as well as most of the Caribbean . In The Dominican Republic it is named for the coral
reefs that underly the island and is somewhat compactable depending on the area. The use of
decomposed limestone can be problematic unless modified with either the addition of clay, portland
cement or lime if necessary.
Soils that are bentonitic or highly expansive are normally unsuitable for earth construction without
modification. The shrink and swell capacity of these soils, related to their clay content can cause the
block to be highly susceptible to moisture, even high humidity, however the acid test is how the clays
actually perform under compaction and even poor performance can be offset by stabilization. Soil
cracking after rainfall may indicate expansive soil. Soil must be tested to determine its suitability. The
ideal is a block or wall that looks pretty and has a lot of strength but even ugly block and marginal soils
can be used to build a structure that will last for centuries.
Desirable qualities for soil construction materials include:
Strength
Low Moisture Absorption
Limited Shrink/Swell Reaction
High Resistance to Erosion and Chemical Attack
Availability
3.1 Soil Testing
Soil testing techniques vary, and include laboratory as well as field testing. Testing is done in three
phases: laboratory testing, construction mix testing, and quality control testing. Laboratory testing should
always be done early in the design process, using representative samples of soil intended for use. (See
Resources section for laboratories.) Engineering properties for which soils are tested include permeability,
stability, plasticity and cohesion, compactibility, durability, and abrasiveness. Shrinkage, swelling and
compressive strength are important aspects of soil suitability.
Again, it is possible to alter soils to make them suitable for construction by stabilizing them. Stabilizing
soil helps to inhibit the shrink and swell potential, and aids in the binding of soil components. Soil can be
stabilized through chemical or mechanical means or both. For information on mechanical methods, see
Section 5.0 on rammed earth.
3.2 Chemical Soil Stabilization
Lime, portland cement, and other pozzolans (high silica volcanic ash, rice hull ash, etc) can be used as
chemical additives. Lime is most effective on clay soils, and can be used in combination with portland
cement and pozzolan. Hydrated lime, as opposed to quick lime, should be used. Lime is inexpensive, but
care must be taken to protect workers from breathing in lime dust. Cement is relatively inexpensive, but
requires large energy inputs in its production process and puts approximately an equal weight of carbon
dioxide into the atmosphere. However, cement produces the strongest block and will substitute for clay
poor soils where lime will not and the normal usage of between 5 and 10% minimizes the embodied
energy especially when compared to concrete and lumber products * . Pozzolan exists in plentiful supply
in many areas, and is sometimes readily available commercially in the form of coal fly ash .
The Center for Maximum Potential Building Systems (CMPBS) in Austin, Tx is experimenting with
the use of pozzolan as an additive and offers considerable expertise in earth materials use. See the
Resources section.
3.3 Strength of tested earth and caliche block
Unfired Compressed Earth Block with addition of 5-10% cement can easily pass the Uniform Building
Code standards for compression with an average of 960 psi.
Rammed earth walls have been tested with a compressive strength of 30 to 90 psi immediately after
forming. Ultimate compressive strength should reach 450-800 psi. If cement is added, compressive
strength will increase.
The Uniform Building Code for single and two story buildings requires block bearing capacity of 300 psi
bearing strength. Blocks manufactured with a hydraulic press have been tested with a bearing capacity
immediately after production of 700 psi. Such soil block continues to cure, until blocks reach a typical
bearing capacity of 1000 psi., far exceeding requirements of the Uniform Building Code and HUD
standards. Cement can be added to the soil block mixture to reach a bearing capacity of 2500-3900 psi.
3.4 Soil Handling
The use of earth as building materials is inexpensive for materials costs, but emphasizes labor in
construction methods. The right equipment and coordinated labor are important in the soil material
construction process. Even a small structure may require at least 15 tons of earth. This material must be
moved and handled at least twice. A front end loader, skidsteer or tractor equipped with a shovel or back
hoe will be necessary for on-site extraction of soil materials as well as processing the soil and loading the
machinery. A large flat area with good drainage is necessary for handling and processing the materials as
well as making the blocks. The building footprint should also be accessible by truck for rammed earth
construction.

4.0 Caliche and Soil Block Construction
4.1 Materials
Caliche is used in many areas as a road base material and in the production of cement and lime.
Although not commonly used as a building material, there are historical as well as current examples of
caliche for construction. For an in-depth treatment of the subject, see The Caliche Report (see
Resources). Caliche occurs in abundance in the Austin area and may be possible to get from the
construction site. However, if this is not possible, caliche may be purchased from area suppliers. Be sure
to test the source. The use of soil as the basic block material is also possible, but will have slightly
different stabilization demands.
Subsoils are the basics of Earth Block Construction. With a clay content of plus or minus 30% and a
water content of 6% (equivalent to soil that has received an inch of rain a week previous. No straw,
roots, twigs, leaves, etc.
4.2 Block Production Methods
A backhoe and/or a front end loader will be needed to dig the soil on-site or handle soils imported. Soils
obtained from the site may need to be dried and screened prior to mixing. Soils should be tested to prove
their compactability and to determine any needed additions such as sand or clay. The next step of
hydrating and mixing has traditionally been the largest labor and time investment being done either by
hand or with a front end loader. The use of concrete and stucco mixers have proven ineffectual for large
projects such as a home, however there are earth mixing or blending machinery available that are
especially cost effective for adding portland cement or lime and for adding water in dry areas.
Sun Dried Adobe
Molding techniques may be in the form of monolithic walls (See Rammed Earth ) or molded
into blocks or bricks. For the latter, the mix is poured into molds, or pressure molded using
special machinery. These methods provide for a variety of standard and custom size and shapes
of block. With the hand mold technique, the prepared mix is poured into damp or oiled molds,
spread evenly, and the molds are shaken slightly to ensure even filling of the forms. The blocks
are then removed and allowed to cure before stacking.
Air curing must occur for 10-14 days before the block can be used in construction. Protection
from direct sunlight for 5 days and protection from rain throughout the curing process are
important. Drying bricks may be temporarily covered with tarps or plastic sheeting, but these
must be removed for curing to continue. Once bricks are sufficiently cured, they can be set on
end to continue drying.
With a wheelbarrow and gang forms, a crew of two can produce 300 to 400 bricks per day. With
the addition of a plaster mixer and gang forms for 500 bricks, this production can be doubled.
The addition of a front end loader with a driver will additionally increase production.
Compressed Earth Block
Compressed earth or soil block can be manufactured on site with a variety of block-making
machines, including hydraulic presses, mechanical presses, and various combinations. Some
mechanical presses are small enough to be operated by hand (Cinva-Ram, for instance). With a
mobile industrial block machine powered by a diesel engine as many as 800 blocks can be
produced per hour. Compressed soil blocks can be used immmediately. They continue to cure
and gain strength after they are installed. When green (before they are cured), they can be
readily shaped or nailed into with hand tools.
Compressed Earth Block come in two basic types, The vertical press where the block are normally
10 x 14 (there are many variations) that are fixed with the height of the block nominally 3
which is variable due to the variability of the soil. These block are treated like Adobe in that they
need to be mortared and cut to fit. The Horizontal Press are of a fixed dimension normally 4 x
14(again there are variations) with a length of the block variable from 2 to 12 depending on
the machine. These blocks do not require mortar and can be dry stacked with ease by basic
skilled workers, the block can also be custom sized to minimize cutting for electrical, plumbing
and wall changes.
4.3 Mortaring
Mortar for blocks must be applied to the entire surface of the block, as opposed to ribbon mortar beds
often used with conventional brick. Full surface mortaring allows for maximum compressive strength. The
same soil used in block making, mixed with water to form a slurry, is usually used as a mortar for binding
blocks together into floors and walls. Cement can be added to the mortar mix, but this increases the cost.
The main advantage of cement mortar is stabilization.
4.4 Design Methods
Block size can be varied easily to accommodate a variety of designs. Walls can be sculptured, rounded, or
formed into keystone arches to create custom effects. Relatively unskilled labor can be utilized in
construction with compressed earth block.
Design of structural walls using any soil material block must take into account wall height and thickness,
size of block, mass value * , and the desired style and finish. Wall height-to-thickness ratio must be
adequate for stability * .
Because thermal mass equates to insulation in soil block a minimum of 12 inches is needed for a
comfortable abode.
Earth block structures need not have the pueblo style if this is not desired. In fact a gable or hip roof
can protect the home better while offering solar protection from western exposures. A bond or collar
beam is necessary if the roof is supported by the walls. This will serve to spread the loads over the entire
wall, and stabilize the tops of the walls from horizontal movement. (See code)
Plasters
Soil blocks are typically stuccoed or plastered to prevent them from getting wet, however, any
veneer or siding can be used on Pressed Earth Block as they can hold a nail or staple. Interior
finishes are normally plaster (structolite) or earth plasters that are simple to apply and maintain.
Petroleum based finishes do not work well with unstabilized earth block and cement plasters do
not stick to asphalt stabilized adobe. A common mix for a stabilized interior mud plaster is 5%
portland cement to 30% minimum clay fine screened with window screen. Exterior mud plaster
will need 6 to 10% portland cement with 30% minimum clay and 1/8 screen.
Fully stabilized structures do not require any exterior finish unless desired for aesthetics.

5.0 Rammed Earth Construction
Rammed earth, an ancient building technique, may have originally been developed in climates where
humidity and rainfall did not permit the production of soil block. For soil block to cure uncovered, there
must be at least 10 rain-free days. Soil mixtures for rammed earth are similar to those for soil block. Soils
with high clay content may be more suitable for ramming, as they tend to crack in blocks when curing.
5.1 Preparation and Transport of Soil
Rammed earth soil mixes must be carefully prepared by screening, pulverizing, and mixing. Pulverizing is
important to ensure a uniform mix and to break up any clumps.
Transporting the soil mix to the forms is a demanding tasks. Large quantities of soil must be moved and
transported vertically for placement in the forms. This process is not the same as pouring concrete,
because the material is not liquid. Traditionally, workers passed baskets or buckets of earth up to where
it was needed. Hoists can also be used effectively for this task.
5.2 Form work
Form work for rammed earth must be stable and well-built in order to resist pressure and vibration
resulting from ramming. Small, simply designed forms that are easy to manage are most effective. Ease
of assembly and dismantling should be considered when designing forms. A variety of materials can be
used for forms, including wood, aluminum, steel, or glass fiber.
Systems for keeping form work in position vary. Small clamps adapted from concrete form work
techniques work well, although small holes are left when the clamps are removed. Other methods include
locking hydraulic jacks, or form work built on posts. For more discussion of form work design,
organization and moving, see the Earth Construction Primer, and Adobe and Rammed Earth Buildings
listed in Resources.
5.3 The Ramming Process
Once a soil lift of 6 to 8 inches in thickness is in place, the soil is rammed. Ramming can be
accomplished manually or mechanically. Manual ramming is an ancient technique using a large, specially
shaped tool with a long handle called a rammer. Rammers weigh around 18 pounds, and have heads of
wood or metal. Differently shaped heads are designed to perform ramming for various form shapes,
especially for corners.
Mechanical impact ramming uses pneumatic ramming machines. Only rammers specifically designed for
soil are effective (rammers which are too powerful or too heavy will not work). Such equipment is quite
expensive, but impact ramming is highly effective, and if the soil mixture is good, creates high quality
rammed earth. Rammed earth will begin to cure immediately, and can take from several months to
several years, depending on weather and humidity to complete the process.
5.4 Design Methods
Rammed earth walls have low tensile strength, and should be reinforced by providing a bond or collar
beam. Beams can be constructed of concrete, wood or steel. Vertical reinforcing may also be done, and
may be required by some building officials.
All openings in rammed earth walls, such as windows and doors, must have lintels to span the opening
width. Water flow and moisture control is critical to protect structural walls. Special detailing to
accommodate manufactured windows may be necessary to accommodate wall thickness. All openings for
doors and windows will require a frame. Wood, as opposed to metal, is recommended due to the
corrosive action of moisture from the soil material. Lintels can be concrete, stone or wood. Careful
attention to both roof and opening details is necessary to protect the structure from water damage.
Foundations required by most codes are concrete reinforced with steel. Soil block material may be used
as a filler material between piers of a reinforced concrete pier and beam foundation. Historically, many
structures built with earth materials had no foundation, or used sand and gravel foundations. The latter
are excavated trenches filled with two parts sand to three parts gravel. Trench bottoms should be graded
to provide positive drainage. Soil material block should not be used in below grade walls unless supported
on both sides. Natural moisture from the ground may infiltrate the block, resulting in reduced
compressive strength.

6.0 Soil Materials Flooring
Earth floors are most often used in outbuildings and sheds, but if properly installed, can also be used in
interior spaces. For interior use, earth floors must be properly insulated and moisture sealed. Earth floors
must be protected from capillary action of water by sealing with a water tight membrane underlayment.
Construction preparation includes removal of any vegetation under the floor area followed by ramming of
the area. The ground must be dry before installation of the floor. After the surface is moisture-proofed, a
foundation of stone, gravel or sand is installed, 20 to 25 cm. deep. Then, an insulating layer is installed,
such as a straw clay mixture.
An appropriate soil stabilized mixture for the load-bearing layer of the floor is then installed. The load
bearing layer should be 4 cm. thick. The floor can be finished with a thin layer of cement grout mixed
with sand. Sawdust can also be .i.concrete: rammed earth and, added as a filler, in proportion of one
part sawdust, one part sand, and one part cement. Sawdust should be treated first with lime and dried.
The final stage of floor finishing is waxing and/or coloring.
Other construction options include monolithic earth floors which are poured in layers within guide forms.
Each layer must have curing cracks filled, be treated with a mixture of linseed oil and turpentine, and
allowed to dry for a week before the next layer is applied. The final floor surface can be waxed and
polished.
Soil material flooring can also be installed using stabilized bricks or tiles. Such materials should be from 6
to 9 cm thick, and can be set on a 2 cm layer of mortar. If soil is not used for flooring, concrete or
masonry are other options. Tile and wood floors are possible.

7.0 Soil Material Durability and Finishes
Soil materials in construction are often believed to be vulnerable to weather. This is true only of the
outer, or finished surfaces. If proper roof and structural design is done, rainfall or severe weather will not
affect the structural properties of the wall or the interior wall. Only the cosmetic surface of the earth
material will be affected. Normally, the clay content of the material resists extensive wetting.
Structures constructed of soil materials are durable, and are said to last more than fifty years. The US.
government has documented over 350,000 currently existing houses and commercial structures of
earthen construction in the US. Many of these have been in existence with minimal maintenance for the
past 100 years. Some were built as long ago as the 1600s.
Several options are available for finishing soil based construction materials. Two basic approaches exist:
waterproof or breathable finishes. Waterproof finishes such as cement stucco are more permanent and
more expensive initially. Such finishes will contain and trap moisture, which may be problematic;
permeable finishes such as mud plaster are less expensive, less durable and will allow the wall to absorb
and give off airborne moisture.
Investigate qualities and claims of products before purchasing. If possible, test wall finishes before
purchasing large quantities of materials.
7.1 Plaster
Mud plaster is usually applied in two coats for both exterior and interior surfaces. The addition of straw is
recommended in the mud plaster mix. This will help to reinforce the plaster, allowing for thicker coats
and surface leveling. In addition, this will decrease the tendency for cracking of the plaster as it dries.
High clay content soils in mud plaster may tend to result in a poor bond of the plaster to the wall.
The finish coat is made of screened, fine materials. This layer is applied as thinly as possible while
achieving full coverage. Plaster can be troweled or floated to achieve a variety of textures, and reapplied
as many times as necessary to achieve the desired affect or to make repairs. When dry, the mud plaster
surface will take a hard, firm set similar in hardness and texture to conventional plaster.
The same stabilizers used in the preparation of the structural soil mix may be used to stabilize the
plaster. Thorough mixing of the plaster mix is necessary to avoid an uneven finish.
7.2 Stucco
Traditional cement stucco may be used on walls for a low-maintenance finish. While this may seem
desirable, cement stucco also has disadvantages in that it has a different expansion coefficient than the
wall material. This may eventually lead to separation from the wall, and may conceal structural erosion
problems which may result from leaky pipes or roofs. Stucco netting is recommended to accommodate
any settling and cracking of the stucco. Exterior stucco walls should not be painted with traditional
exterior paints, which will increase moisture impermeability. A final colored coat of stucco or texture
finishes may be used decoratively. For more information on both interior and exterior cement stucco
preparation and application, see Adobe and Rammed Earth Buildings (Resources section).
7.3 Interior Walls
Interior earth walls may be painted more successfully, and may also be treated with sealing compounds
to reduce the tendency for dust to develop and rub off on furniture and clothing. Oil-based varnishes and
resinous liquids can be diluted for such use. If paint is to be used, a sealing or sizing coat should be
applied first. Whitewash can be prepared with equal parts of lime and white cement mixed with water.
Natural earth pigments may be added to this.
In addition to stucco or plaster, interior walls may also be treated with a variety of veneers including
gypsum wall board or other interior veneers.

8.0 Soil Material and Energy
8.1 Thermal Characteristics
Earth material walls are not especially good insulators. ASHRAE laboratory tests give a 10 inch thick
adobe wall with 3/4 inch of stucco on the exterior and 1/2 inch of gypsum plaster on the interior an R-
value of 3.8. A 14 inch wall with similar construction is assigned an R value of 4.9. In spite of these fairly
low values in laboratory conditions, earth materials do have good thermal mass characteristics. Wall
thickness of from 12 to 14 inches are generally considered optimum for thermal mass performance.
Double wall construction can greatly enhance insulation value. Applied insulation can be in the form of
rigid material or spray on insulation. Spray on insulation must be covered with stucco to protect it.
Although the addition of insulation will increase construction costs, the resulting energy savings will offset
initial costs. Some dynamic testing of high mass walls have indicated better thermal performances than
the calculated thermal values would indicate.
8.2 Embodied Energy
The following figures, adapted from Adobe and Rammed Earth Buildings , reflect the embodied energy in
BTUs required for the production and use of various materials. Soil block has a much lower embodied
energy than many traditional materials.
Portland Cement 94 lb sack 381,624 BTU
Lime, hydrated 100 lb sack 440,619 BTU
Common brick 1 block 13,570 BTU
Concrete block 1 block 29,018 BTU
Earth (Adobe) block (mechanized production) 1 block (10X4X14) 2,500 BTU


Floor Coverings
DEFINITION:
The floor coverings addressed in this section pertain to non-wood flooring: carpeting and its padding, tile
products, and linoleum (as opposed to vinyl). These are coverings that would be used in all the primary
areas of a home. (Wood flooring is addressed separately.)
Recycled-content carpet padding comes in two primary types from old padding and from reclaimed
carpet fibers.
Recycled-content carpeting is made from recycled PET derived primarily from post-consumer plastic soft
drink containers.
Natural linoleum is made from softwood powder, linseed oil, pine tree resins, cork, chalk, and jute
backing.
Recycled-content tile that is currently available is made from waste glass such as lightbulbs and auto
windshields. An additional recycled-content tile is made from a byproduct of feldspar mining.
Natural carpets are those made from grasses, cotton, and wool with minimal treatment.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Common floor coverings are most often cited as primary contributors to indoor air contamination. This is
due to the VOC constituents (volatile organic compounds) present in the binders used in the fabrication
of the materials such as carpet padding and carpeting and in the adhesives used to apply carpet padding
and tile.
Since homes are now constructed tightly in order to conserve energy, chemicals outgassing from building
materials are more potent and harmful. Formaldehyde outgassing is a primary threat from commonly-
used floor coverings.
Airing a home before it is occupied will dilute the chemicals during their most potent initial stage.
However, high levels of VOCs will outgas for months and, in many cases, will continue to outgas for
years. Reducing the application of VOCs in the home can be achieved through alternatives mainly
associated with the use of carpeting.
This section identifies recycled-content materials which are durable, high quality, and attractive floor
coverings. The use of these materials strengthens the viability of our recycling efforts and greatly benefits
our resource and energy impacts.
Linoleum and natural carpets use renewable resources and offer durability without compromising
aesthetics. The cork used in linoleum is harvested from the cork tree on an ongoing basis without
harming the tree. Along with cotton and wool, carpet-type floor coverings are available from grasses and
reeds.
Ceramic tile offers outstanding durability and maintainability. It also has high aesthetic value.

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Recycled Carpet



Ceramic Tile



Linoleum



Recycled Tile



Natural Carpets




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Adequately developed.
SUPPLIERS:
Available locally, except recycled-content tile.
COST:
Recycled-content padding and carpeting are priced competitively. Recycled-content tile is higher priced
than average tile products. The least toxic adhesives used with ceramic and recycled tile are locally
available at competitive costs. Linoleum will cost more than low cost vinyl flooring. Natural carpet
materials are more costly than common carpet materials, but competitively priced with standard high
quality carpeting.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Healthy home issues are among the highest environmental appeals to homebuyers. Buyers may be wary
of recycled-content floor coverings, but they will find that they are indistinguishable from non recycled-
content products.
REGULATORY:
None.

GUIDELINES
1.0 Recycled content padding and carpeting.
Standard installation.
Types of recycled padding.Rubber-based recycled padding is quite common. It can outgas.
Environmentally sensitive individuals should check a sample of the padding material for any adverse
reactions.
Recycled padding from carpet fibers is also available and may be more suitable for environmentally
sensitive persons.
2.0 Water-based adhesives.
A least toxic alternative. Now common in the flooring industry.
Standard application.
3.0 Linoleum.
Installed similarly to vinyl flooring.
If the backing material is jute, the cuts for seams need to be beveled away from the seam. The jute
backing relaxes with use and will spread out.
Select installers that have received factory installation training.
4.0 Recycled-content tile.
Handled like ceramic tile.
Products listed in the Resources section are suitable for high traffic commercial applications.


Wood Flooring
DEFINITION:
Wood flooring in this section refers to finish floors that can be in strips or parquet and nailed or glued to
a subfloor.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Wood flooring is considered an aesthetic plus to homes. It also offers long life and fairly easy
maintenance.
Most wood flooring is derived from hardwood trees. From an overall view, the growth/removal rate for
hardwood trees in the U. S. is positive with growth easily exceeding removals.
The use of regional hardwoods such as mesquite stimulates the regional economy and uses a tree
considered a nuisance by many. Mesquite trees are often subject to chemical eradication programs rather
than used constructively. Mesquite hardwood is highly valued as a floor material. However, the tree does
not produce large consistent-size logs, increasing the costs of processing it.
Reused wood flooring is often derived from remilled salvage timbers. It can also be salvaged from old
flooring. From an environmental standpoint, this approach saves materials from the wastestream and
does not impact living trees. Very often the reused wood flooring comes from trees that are no longer
present to harvest, or in grain patterns only found in rare old large trees. This adds to the aesthetic
quality of this type of flooring.
The finishes selected for wood flooring and any adhesives used should contain low VOC content.

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Regional



Reused




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Well-developed.
SUPPLIERS:
Suppliers of regular domestic hardwood flooring are common. Mesquite suppliers are available but less
mainstream. Reused flooring availability is limited locally. Least toxic adhesives for wood flooring are
readily available.
COST:
Mesquite and reused wood flooring (such as remilled old wood) exceeds the cost of standard domestic
hardwood flooring by up to 100%. Reused wood flooring (such as salvaged flooring) is seldom
commercially viable, due to the time required to prepare it. Remilled old wood into flooring is available.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Wood flooring is highly valued.
REGULATORY:
None.

GUIDELINES
Standard installation techniques apply to wood flooring of all types.
Select least-toxic adhesives, such as low-VOC, for adhesive applied flooring (see Finishes and Adhesives
section).




Roofing
DEFINITION
This section deals with roof covering materials such as shingles, tile, and roof panels.

CONSIDERATIONS:
In selecting material for roof covering one should take into account its weight (heavier material requires
larger support members), its durability (e.g. how well can it tolerate high and low temperatures and for
how long), its effect on water falling on the roof if the water is being captured (for example, will gravel
from shingles build up sediment in a cistern or do roof materials leach into the water?), the heat-holding
qualities of the roof material (does it heat up and stay hot into the night?), as well as cost, fire rating,
maintainability, and installation characteristics.
Slate, clay, and cementitious roof materials offer excellent durability but are heavy. Fiber-cement
composite roof materials are somewhat lighter and use fiber materials resourcefully. Some use waste
paper as well as wood fiber. Many have 60 year warranties.
Metal roof materials, steel and aluminum contain high percentages of recycled content, up to 100% in
many aluminum products. An additional advantage is that these materials are easily recycled in their
post-use as well as lightweight and durable.
Asphalt shingles use recycled, mixed paper in their base and some use reclaimed minerals in the surface
aggregate. This type of material does not last as long as the others mentioned above. Recycled plastic
roof materials are starting to be introduced as a lightweight option.

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Recycled Content




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Well-developed; more recycled-content roofing materials can be anticipated.
SUPPLIERS:
Adequate; fiber-cement roof materials are not readily available.
Clay roof materials are costly; metal roof materials are competitive with the more common asphalt
shingles.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Most people prefer shingle, tile, or slate roof materials; metal shingles are available as an option to metal
sheet materials.
REGULATORY:
Roofing materials will meet standards established by the appropriate testing groups and must be installed
according to the manufacturers instructions.

GUIDELINES
1.0 Fiber-cement composite slates and shakes
Weigh between 325 and 500 pounds per square.
Use standard roof structures.
Long-lasting (up to 60-year warrantees, fireproof).
Typically have Class A fire rating.
2.0 Organic asphalt shingles
Up to 25% recycled content by some companies.
Life of 20-30 years.
Not easily recycled at end of useful life.
Weigh approximately 230 pounds per square.
3.0 Metal roofing products
Can be made to give shingle appearance
Most metal roofing, including standing-seam, contains recycled metal.
Metal roofing used primarily for agricultural buildings is lower in cost, but requires premium metal
coatings, factory-finished panels, or watertight construction detailing when used for housing.
3.1 Metal coatings
Zinc (galvanized) coatings oxidize to protect the steel. Protection is lost when the oxidation process uses
up the zinc, and the steel underneath can rust. On low-sloped roofs in wet climates, coating loss and rust
can show up in five years.
Aluminum coatings are superior to zinc, carrying warranties up to twenty years. They are inert, and do
not degrade over time.
Aluminum-zinc alloys, or Galvalume, will outperform aluminized coatings and exceed twenty-year
warrantees.
3.2 Painted metal
Only use factory applied paint.
Polyester resin finishes offer least durability. Fading will occur in 5 to 7 years.
Silicone modified polyester finishes are superior (the more silicone, the better the performance). Twenty
year warranties are available.
Fluorpolymer resins provide a state of the art finish. Five paint companies produce this paint under the
brand names of Duranar, Nubelar, Fluropon, Trinar, and Visulure.
Bare aluminized or Galvalume panel can last 40 years without maintenance and is a better choice than
polyester resin finishes.
3.3 Panel thermal movement
Metal panels respond to temperature change by expanding and contracting. This causes the fastener hole
size to increase, resulting in leaks.
Dark colors will experience the largest thermal movement.
Panels installed over purlins will not harm the roof system with thermal movement.
If installing over a solid deck, use Z-shaped metal sleepers over the decking. The sleepers will move with
the panels and eliminate fatigue where the screws penetrate the panels (the screw hole will become
elongated causing leaks) or the screws will lose grip on the decking. If possible, do not use solid decking
with metal roof panels.
Solid aluminum panels have a higher coefficient of expansion than steel and will strain fasteners with the
increased movement from temperature change.
3.4 Galvanic reactions
Protect metal panels on the anodic end of the galvanic scale from fasteners and flashings on the cathodic
end to prevent corrosion.



Structural Insulating Wall Panels (SIPs)

DEFINITION
Structural panels are typically two outer layers of structural sheathing material separated by an insulated
core. They are made in different sizes according to the jobs requirements.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Structural panels replace the standard stud/insulation/sheathing wall system. Some panels have
sheetrock mounted on the inside portion, and/or siding on the exterior. Most have sheathing such as OSB
for facings.
Panels can be fabricated with three types of foam cores: molded expanded polystyrene (MEPS), extruded
polystyrene (XEPS), and urethane (polyurethane and polyisocyanurate are types of urethane). There are
several options for facings: plywood, waferboard, oriented strand board (OSB), sheetrock, and metal.
Exterior surface materials such as T-1-11 siding are offered by some suppliers. XEPS and urethane foam
use CFCs or HCFCs as blowing agents. MEPS does not use any ozone-depleting chemicals. For credit
from the Green Builder Program for this option, MEPS insulation or an alternative that has no ozone-
depleting chemicals must be used. Additionally, waferboard, OSB, sheetrock and/or siding need to be
used as facings.
Foam insulation can attract insects. Some companies use borates as an insect barrier in the foam
insulation. This is a preferred strategy for protecting the panels. Borates are also topically applied to the
facings by some companies.
Structural grade adhesives should be used to bind the facings to the foam core. Use the manufacturer
warranty as a gauge of the quality of the product. Poor adhesive qualities can cause panel failure. Select
panels that are certified to meet building codes.
Structural panels offer very effective insulating qualities, rapid installation, and consistent quality
(minimizing waste). The use of OSB or waferboard for facings is considered a positive use of wood
resources.

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Structural Wall




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
Technology:
Many manufacturers make structural panels. Quality control is inconsistent in the industry and product
development is continuing.
SUPPLIERS:
Available locally and regionally.
COST:
$1.75 to $2.75 per square foot or higher (material only). This can be slightly higher than conventional
framing costs.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available if panels are code compliant.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Good
REGULATORY:
Not all panels have been tested for code compliance. Make certain that the panel as a whole is code
compliant, not just the components of the panel. This information is provided by the manufacturer.

GUIDELINES
1.0 Ordering panels
Specify MEPS with borate treatment for insulation or other non ozone-depleting insulation.
Use waferboard or OSB facings. These materials do not contain urea formaldehyde or outgas toxic
materials.
Window and door openings can be provided by some manufacturers.
Drywall can be provided already mounted by some manufacturers. Some panel manufacturers also offer
exterior wall surfaces, typically T-1-11.
Sandwich panels (two facings) and unfaced panels are available. Unfaced panels typically have structural
members (i.e. studs) in the insulation. Facings are added on-site.
Use panels that have structural grade adhesive linking the cores with the facings.
Panels can be used as infill in a post and beam structure.
2.0 Panel details
To groove or notch panels to fit together; a hot knife, hot wire, or router can be used.
Caulk guns are a necessity.
An oversized saw is useful for cutting panels.
If openings are not factory supplied, a chainsaw can be used.
Expect to use a large assortment of straps and reinforcing brackets.
While storing panels, protect them from rain and keep them ventilated (particularly in hot, sunny
locations) by using sleepers, or spacers, between panels.
Stack panels so that the sequence of removal accommodates the order they need to be erected.
Examine panel details from the manufacturer in regards to installation; many variations exist. In
connecting panels, choose systems that do not compromise the thermal qualities of the panel by creating
a thermal bridge or short circuit.
There should be a gap between panel sections so facings have room to expand.
When creating openings (i.e. windows), the foam must be cut back from the edge of the facings in order
to infill with 2X material. With MEPS this is most quickly done with a router and a hot knife in the corners.
This is a slow process with only a hot knife.
Wiring and plumbing chases are typically provided by the panel manufacturer at specified distances along
the panel.

Insulation
DEFINITION:
There are several types of insulation addressed in this section that can be used in walls, floors, and
ceilings.
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled newspaper and treated with fire retardants and insect
protection. Borates, derived from the mineral Boron, are natural materials that can be used as fire
retardants and insect repellents in cellulose insulation.
CFC and HCFC insulation refers to the blowing agents that contain chlorofluorocarbons used in making
many rigid insulating sheathing products. Extruded polystyrene and polyisocyanurate foam insulation
boards are currently made with CFC or HCFC blowing agents.
Agricultural fiber insulation is available in the form of cotton insulation made with mill waste, low grade,
and recycled cotton. It is treated with a non-toxic fire retardant and comes in batts comparable to
fiberglass insulation batts.
Cementitious foam insulation is made from magnesium from sea water and blown in place with air.
Perlite insulation is made from a natural occurring volcanic mineral and is often used as loose fill
insulation in concrete block cavities.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Insulation materials play a primary role in achieving high energy efficiencies in buildings. There has been
concern over the health impacts of the material constituents of insulation ever since the problems
associated with asbestos became apparent, followed by the banning of urea formaldehyde based
insulation. Some health concerns have spread to potential inhalation of fiberglass and cellulose insulation
fibers and dust. Always wear a proper dust mask when working with these materials.
Cellulose insulation uses recycled newsprint that contains printers inks which can possibly outgas
formaldehyde into a home. If there is any outgassing from inks, it should fall well below levels irritating
most persons. However, an environmentally-sensitive person should be careful in selecting cellulose and
install a vapor retarder between the insulation and the living space. (Note that the vapor retarder can
exacerbate mildew problems if humidity levels in the house are high.)
There are also chemical additives often added to treat cellulose that are not thoroughly understood from
an indoor air quality standpoint. Cellulose insulation that is treated with borates is preferred. Cellulose
insulation can be bound together as a wet spray and installed in open wall cavities where it effectively
seals the entire wall.
Rigid board insulations employed as sheathing on homes have played an important role in achieving high
R-values. The use of CFCs in many of these materials has caused increased release of chlorine molecules
into the atmosphere contributing to ozone depletion. HCFCs outgas a lesser amount of chlorine
molecules. However, the severity of the ozone depletion situation has led to the recommendation to
avoid both types of insulation blowing agent. Alternatives in rigid board insulation are available that do
not use CFCs. (See Engineered Sheet Products section.) Any rigid expanded polystyrene insulation
does not have CFCs.
Cementitious foam insulation is available commercially. There are no installers of this type of insulation in
some regions. It is also more costly where available. This type of insulation is considered the most benign
from an indoor air quality standpoint. Use installers who have a track record and can provide references.
Perlite insulation is in a loose form suitable to fill the cavities in building block. Perlite can be bound into
other materials and used in sheet form. It is commonly used in commercial roofing material and can be
used as an aggregate in concrete. It is non-flammable, lightweight and chemically inert.
Not listed is the use of rockwool insulation. Rockwool is recycled steel slag (a landfill material). It is
available as blow-on wall insulation (a starch binder is used) and as loose blow-in attic insulation. It
offers very good energy performance, will not burn, and is chemically inert.
Spray-in-place foam insulations are a fairly new addition. They offer the advantage of acting as a vapor
barrier, effectively disallowing the cracks and gaps which can occur with rigid board or batt insulation
methods. Some are made in part with soy oil instead of the more common petroleum oil, but its
important to note that even the products with the highest percentage of soy oil still contain a majority of
petroleum, and that the soy oil likely comes from genetically engineered plants which may be a negative
in the view of some people.
Commercial wool insulation is available in limited areas. Being made from a naturally produced fiber,
sheep wool insulation typically requires less than 15% of the energy required to produce than glass fiber
insulation. Wool is a sustainable and renewable resource, that has zero ozone depletion potential and at
the end of its useful life can be remanufactured or biodegraded. Sheep wool insulation is safe and easy
to handle and no protective clothing or special breathing apparatus is required to install it.

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Agri. Fiber



Cementitious



Perlite




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Well-developed and changing. More recycled-content types are being developed. Cotton insulation is
new.
SUPPLIERS:
Adequate for cellulose insulation; new suppliers for cotton insulation are currently being established.
Cementitious foam requires trained installers. Perlite and rockwool are available. Spray foams are
becoming more common.
COST: (varies by region)
Prices can vary according to installer.
Cellulose/cotton/fiberglass insulation: less than $.20 per square foot for R-19 uninstalled.
Wet blown cellulose insulation: 50% more installed.
Air Krete: $2.00 per square foot for 26 walls installed.
Perlite (as loose fill): $5.00 to $8.00 per 4 cubic feet.
Rockwool: $0.50 per square foot installed in 2 x 4 wall, comparable to cellulose in attic

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
The general public is mostly unaware that CFCs can exist in insulation. Cellulose insulation and spray
foam is commonly accepted. Cotton insulation is attractive to environmentally-aware individuals and
those doing their own insulating work as it will not cause skin irritation. Perlite insulation is relatively
unknown to the general public. Cotton and perlite are not likely to be negatively perceived. Rockwool and
sheep wool are relatively unknown as a modern insulation option.
REGULATORY:
Must meet flame spread and smoke density requirements, listed in Section R-217 of the CABO One and
Two Family Dwelling Code.

GUIDELINES
1.0 Cellulose insulation
As a loose fill material applied in attics, install baffles to keep the material away from soffit vents. The
baffles will also prevent wind from the soffit vents through blowing the insulation. Dont cover recessed
light fixtures unless the fixtures are certified to accept insulation.
Cellulose insulation can be effectively used in wall cavities in new construction. As a dry loose-fill wall
insulation, it could settle.
Wet-blown insulation offers superior insulating qualities and can be trimmed by hand on walls before
installing drywall. Moisture control is critical with wet-blown insulation as overly moist insulation requires
a longer drying period before a wall can be closed up. Wet blown insulation offers excellent performance.

2.0 CFCs
CFCs or HCFCs are found in extruded polystyrene foam boards, isocyanurate foam boards, phenolic foam
boards, and polyurethane blow-in insulation.
Expanded polystyrene rigid insulation at a higher density of 2 lb./ft3 (normal density is 1.0 lb./ft3)
performs similarly to extruded polystyrene. Expanded polystyrene does not contain CFCs or HCFCs. It
typically uses pentane as a blowing agent and has some recycled content.
(See the Engineered Sheet Materials section for alternative insulating sheathing materials.)

3.0 Agricultural fiber
Cotton insulation comes in batts and is installed in the same manner as fiberglass batts. The material
should not be compressed when installed in order to retain its full insulating qualities.
It is treated with borates as fire retardant.

4.0 Cementitious foam
This insulation is fire proof, insect proof, and non-toxic.
Trained installers must be used. The material expands as it sets and can crack walls if installed
incorrectly.
The material contains a lot of water and will need a drying period before a wall can be closed up.
The material is friable (easily crumbled) when dry.

5.0 Perlite
Can be used in concrete to make an insulating lighter weight concrete.
Predominantly used as a pour-in loose-fill in cores of concrete block.
5.1 Loose fill installation location and method
Must be installed in sealed spaces:
Cores of exterior (and interior) hollow core block;
Cavity between exterior (and interior) masonry walls;
Between exterior masonry walls and interior furring.
Perlite will pour easily and quickly directly into cavities or into hoppers slid along the wall. It will fill all
voids and will not settle.

6.0 Rockwool
Rockwool is manufactured in Texas, Washington,North Carolina and Indiana.
It is made comprised of steel slag ( over 75%) with some basalt rock ( 25% or less). In some plants the
recycled steel slag makes up almost 100% of the content.
Blow-on application will seal wall cavities similarly to wet-blown cellulose offering superior insulating
service compared to batts.
It is installed in attics in a loose fill blown form that goes in at a rate of 1.4-1.8 pcf , while the side wall
spray is installed at a rate of 4-5pcf. With theses densities the slag wool has better STC ratings and R
ratings when compared in exact designs with the otther cellulose and fiber insulation products.
Weighs more than fiberglass (rockwool is 1.2 pounds per square foot for R-30 versus 0.5 pounds for
fiberglass). It is less likely to become airborne.
Rockwool is the only insulation that will stop fire.


Windows and Doors
DEFINITION:
Composite materials use stable, durable materials, some of which are byproducts. Fingerjointed windows
use small pieces of wood reducing the impact on large clear grained wood sources. Recycled windows
can mean reuse of salvaged windows or windows of recycled content.
Recycled/reconstituted doors are typically molded hardboard materials. Domestic hardwood veneers use
a stable resource and assist our national economy. Some hardwood veneers such as luaun are from
tropical mahogany trees. Domestic hardwood panel doors use wood types which are a stable resource in
our economy. The panel style reduces the need for potentially harmful adhesives. Recycled doors are
reused doors salvaged from earlier projects.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Windows and doors are currently highly engineered in order to optimize energy performances. Windows
and doors have significant roles in the energy profile of a home. Frame material issues, although
important as part of an overall environmentally responsible approach, play only a small role due to their
small size/area. Performance of these products is important in durability and maintenance, as well as
energy.
Modern composite products are easy to care for, and their thermal performance is superior to wood. One
door manufacturer has introduced recycled-content jambs using recycled plastic and cedar byproducts.
Molded hardboard doors have become the preferred interior door and are a good use of lumber mill
waste shavings.
The reuse of existing materials is the most resourceful building material option. Make certain that quality
and durability are not compromised.
Make certain seals and gaskets are in good condition when selecting recycled windows.
Any windows using fingerjointed materials will need to be painted for aesthetic reasons. It is best to have
the windows factory primed where the painting is done in controlled conditions.

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Composite



Fingerjointed



Recycled



Recycled/
Reconstituted



Domestic Hardwood Veneer



Domestic Hardwood Panel




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
More composite window products can be expected soon. Important strides have been made in UV
resistance. Other door and window products listed here use mature technologies.
SUPPLIERS:
Suppliers of recycled windows and doors can not guarantee that they have appropriate products for a
specific project.
The range of composite window products is limited locally.
Hardwood veneer doors are less common than recycled/reconstituted-content doors and hardwood panel
doors may have to be ordered.
COST:
Panel doors are costly. Recycled windows and doors may entail considerable labor expense to prepare for
use.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Recycled materials (reused) may be questioned unless they are shown to be of high quality.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Awareness of composite products is not high. Once convinced of maintenance-free qualities and
durability, buyers should find them attractive. Recycled (reused) materials must be high quality and/or of
architectural significance to gain acceptance.
REGULATORY:
Windows must be tested and certified and have air infiltration qualities of less than 0.50 CFM per lineal
foot of crack. New window suppliers will offer certified test data to satisfy these requirements. This
information can not be provided for reused windows, thereby limiting the applicability of reused windows.

GUIDELINES
Standard practices pertain to installing the listed window and door options.

Windows
We all love lots of windows. We love the natural light, the views, and the fresh air we get from them. But
nowadays there are so many kinds of windows available, its hard to make a choice. We want windows to
be attractive, let in plenty of light, and be energy-efficient. We dont want them to feel drafty or have
condensation problems. And we want all this for an affordable price. Here are some questions commonly
asked about windows which may help you make a smart choice.
Perhaps you live in an older house and often feel uncomfortable near the windows. Should you replace
them or add storm windows? Replacing windows or adding storm windows is costly. Try these measures
to improve comfort and reduce energy bills before you decide whether to purchase new windows. Caulk
around all trim and stationary parts and weather-strip the moveable parts, to cut down on air leaks.
Install insulated drapes or shades to reduce heat loss in winter, and install solar screens or awnings to
reduce solar heat gain in summer. If you are having a problem with condensation on the inside of the
glass in cold weather, try to reduce indoor sources of moisture. Install exhaust fans which vent to the
outside in bathrooms, the laundry and kitchen.
Lets say youre building a new house and the price your builder quoted for double pane insulated
windows is a lot higher than single pane. Are double pane windows worth the price?
A typical window is almost like a hole in the wall. Modern window technology combines many features
that go a long way to overcome the hole effect, but at a price. If you know what a given feature can do
for you, what it will cost you, and whether there is a cheaper measure to achieve the same result, then
you can make an informed decision.
Most people get double pane windows because they think they will save them money on their heating
and cooling bills. Yes, they will reduce heat loss, and therefore save on winter bills, but since we usually
have mild winters in Central Texas, this potential for savings is small.
A standard double pane helps even less in summer. However, a double pane window with a special
coating applied to it will greatly reduce heat gain from the hot summer sun. This coating is called low-
e (short for emissivity). To work well in the south, it must be applied to the outside surface of the inside
pane of glass. In the north the low-e coat is applied to the inside surface of the outside glass to keep
heat inside. Be sure an uninformed salesperson doesnt order the wrong kind! Double pane windows also
reduce noise and the incidence of condensation. The seals on double pane windows have improved over
the past few years, so failure of the seals is less likely. However, it does make sense to compare
warranties carefully.
Besides checking the warranty, is there any other way you can compare one window brand with another?
Yes. Look for the NFRC label. That stands for the National Fenestration Rating Council. (Fenestration is
the architectural term for windows.) First, look at the U-Factor, which serves as a good measure of heat
loss in winter. The lower the U-factor, the better. The NFRC rating considers the whole window as a unit,
including glazing, the sealing method and the frame material. Next, look at the Solar Heat Gain
Coefficient . In a hot climate, the lower the better. Finally, look at the Visible Transmittance. This number
should be as high as possible. In summary, look for the best possible combination of numbersthe most
light for the least solar gain and the least heat loss.
Dont skimp on your window budget. A high quality window has so many benefitslower energy bills, less
maintenance, reduced fading of furniture and carpets, improved security, beauty and comfortit pays to
make a good window investment.
1.0 Windows
Windows are distinguished in two areas glazing system and window style.
1.1 Glazing System
Single pane, double glazed, triple glazed, low-E, gas filled, etc. determine the R-value and light
transmission characteristics of the window.
Glazing systems can be selected according to their placement and orientation of the house. For example,
a west facing window that would experience heat gain in the summer could use a heat-rejecting glazing
such as southern Low-E. The embodied energy in this glazing could be paid back quickly in cooling cost
savings.
To decide whether a high R-value window is worth the added expense, conduct and compare heat and
cooling load calculations of the building for the windows under consideration. The Energy Star Program
can provide this analysis to enrolled building professionals of the Green Builder/Energy Star Programs.
1.2 Window style
Refers to double hung, casement, awning, etc. indicating the operating characteristics of the window.
Some window styles are more energy-efficient than others. For example, a casement window will close
more tightly than a double hung or slider window. Check manufacturers data for infiltration ratings as
well as R-value.

2.0 Doors
Interior doors should have adequate undercut to maintain balance in the HVAC system. Be sure the
airspace from the undercut is still sufficient after carpeting has been laid since the carpenter will have
hung the doors earlier and may not know the thickness of the pad and carpet.
Exterior doors with magnetic seals will offer superior air infiltration benefits.



Cabinets
DEFINITION:
This section pertains to interior storage cabinets.

CONSIDERATIONS:
Most conventional cabinets are made of plywood with interior grade glue, particle board, or medium
density fiberboard all of which outgas urea formaldehyde. The use of solid wood, metal, or formaldehyde-
free materials will mitigate a potential indoor air quality problem. A low pressure laminate such as
melamine can seal in urea formaldehyde.
The costs of employing these alternative materials are higher than conventional materials. An additional
option is to seal the particleboard, interior plywood, or medium density fiberboard (MDF) components
with a finish that prevents outgassing. This should be done prior to installation since it is necessary to
access all the edges and backs.
Solid domestic hardwood cabinets use a wood resource (domestic hardwood trees)which has a positive
growth/removal rate on a national basis (trees are growing at a faster rate than they are being removed).
Any solid wood components of cabinets using MDF or plywood can also be specified to be a domestic
hardwood.

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Solid Domestic Hardwood



Least Toxic Material




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Well-developed for solid wood cabinetry. Least toxic alternatives are early in development.
SUPPLIERS:
Kitchen cabinet suppliers and architectural mill shops supply solid cabinetry. Formaldehyde free cabinet
material must be ordered from out of the area and put into custom built cabinets.
COST:
Costs for solid cabinetry exceed conventional cabinet costs in varying amounts according to wood type.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Solid wood cabinets can be considered a healthy home issue and would have broad-based appeal. Solid
wood cabinets are highly valued as an aesthetic and quality enhancement.
REGULATORY:
None.

GUIDELINES
Standard practices apply to installing solid cabinetry.
Plywood without urea formaldehyde or medium density fiberboard can be used as part of the cabinets to
help offset high costs.
If sealing particleboard or other urea formaldehyde containing components, be certain to cover all
surfaces. This is best done before the cabinets are installed.


Paints, Finishes and Adhesives
DEFINITIONS:
This section addresses finishes such as paint, stain, and varnishes and adhesives that can be applied on-
site.


CONSIDERATIONS:
Most finishes and adhesives contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which outgas and adversely
affect indoor air quality. Lower VOC and non-VOC products are now readily available from many
companies, however.
The Environmental Choice(TM) Program in Canada has established minimal VOC standards for finishes to
receive their Eco Logo(TM). The Environmental Choice(TM) program recognizes negative impacts on the
environment and people from VOCs. California and a number of other states have now adopted and
sometimes improved upon those Canadian standards.
Low biocide paints avoid the fungicides and mildewcides typically added to latex paint to extend shelf life.
These additives are considered harmful to indoor air quality and are specifically avoided by
environmentally sensitive persons.
Natural plant/mineral-based finishes and adhesives are available from a number of sources, though
theyre still hard to find in many big-box stores. They cost 1 to 1 1/2 times more than standard products.
Low biocide and VOC paints also cost more. Low biocide paints can spoil if not used quickly.
Choose a low or no-VOC paint
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are the fumes that you smell while you paint, and sometimes several
days after. A VOC is an organic chemical that becomes a breathable gas at room temperature. Some
examples are benzene, ethylene glycol, vinyl chloride and mercury.
VOCs in paint usually come from additives to the paint, such as fungicides, biocides, color, and
spreadability agents. High levels of VOCs in paints can cause headaches, allergic reactions, and health
problems in the very old, very young and in those with chronic illnesses.
Concerns about air pollution and hazardous waste have greatly reduced the use of oil-based paints which
can release high amounts of VOCs and contain toxic solvents. Alkyd-based paints and latex paints are
much safer, but some still have high levels of VOCs.
Because of health and safety concerns, paint manufacturers around the country have made great strides
in formulating paints that have no or low-VOCs and that provide excellent results.
Ask question, read labels
When buying paint, work with a knowledgeable paint representative at your local paint or hardware
store. Seek out someone that can answer questions about environmental concerns as well as offer
application advice. Let your paint representative know that you want to use no VOC paint, or the lowest
VOC paint available. If you plan to hire a painting contractor, specify that no or low-VOC paints be used.
You can determine the VOC content of paint by reading the label. It is usually expressed in terms of
grams per liter. The most environmentally-friendly choice is to buy a paint with no VOCs. But if the paint
you need for the job contains VOCs, try to choose a paint no higher than 250 grams per liter for latex,
and if you must use oil-based paint, no higher than 380 grams per liter. These numbers are usually on
the label or on the official product literature. If these numbers are not available, consider choosing
another brand.
Painting tips
If the paint you choose does contain some VOCs, there are ways to lessen their impact on the air quality
in your home. Below are some helpful hints:
Make sure your work area is well ventilated with outside air. Use a fan to make sure that fresh,
outside air is continually moving into and out of your work area.
If possible, leave the house for a while after you paint. Keep the area vented to the outside while
you are gone.
If you cannot leave, try to stay out the painted rooms for along as possible. Shut the doors and
the air ducts, and open the windows to that area.
Proper clean-up and disposal of paint
Proper disposal of paint protects you, garbage collection workers, and the environment.
If youve used latex paint, wash brushes and rollers in the sink with soap and warm water. Dont rinse
your brushes on the grass or in the gutter-it could end up in a nearby creek where it could harm fish and
wildlife. Take the lids off of any empty latex paint cans and let them dry, then throw these into the trash
with the lids off. If you have paint left, check with neighbors to see if they need any. Any unused portions
may also be taken to your areas Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center.
If youve used oil-based paint, take unused portions to the Hazardous Waste facility. Solvents used to
clean equipment should also be taken to the Hazardous Waste collection facility for disposal. Do not rinse
brushes or equipment on the ground or in the gutter.



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Water-Based Adhesives



Minimal VOCs



Low-Biocide



Natural Paints




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
The finishes and adhesives discussed in this section perform satisfactorily.
SUPPLIERS:
Low VOC paints are becoming available from major paint manufacturers and can be obtained locally.
Water based adhesives are also locally available. Low biocide and natural paints must be ordered. There
are some local sources for natural paints.
COST:
Water-based and solvent-free adhesives and low VOC paints are competitively priced. Low biocide paints
and natural finishes are significantly more expensive.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Materials that are considered more healthful have a broad-based appeal. Some people may feel that
mildew problems could occur in paints that do not have a mildewcide such as a low-biocide paint.
REGULATORY:
None.

GUIDELINES
1.0 Low VOC paints characteristics
1.1 Water-based paints
Not formulated or manufactured with formaldehyde.
Not formulated or manufactured with halogenated solvents.
Not formulated or manufactured with mercury or mercury compounds or tinted with pigments of lead,
cadmium, chromium VI and their oxides.
VOC content does not exceed 250 g/l.
Not formulated or manufactured with aromatic hydrocarbons.
1.2 Solvent-based paints
Not formulated or manufactured with formaldehyde.
Not formulated or manufactured with mercury or mercury compounds or tinted with pigments of lead,
cadmium, chromium VI and their oxides.
Not formulated or manufactured with aromatic hydrocarbons in excess of 10% by weight.
VOC content does not exceed 380 g/l.
Not contain any halogenated solvent.
2.0 Low biocide finishes
Pesticides and preservatives are added to water based paints and should be in very low levels. Levels as
low as 0.01 to 0.025% can be effective in preventing spoilage and not be adverse to health.
Avoid formulations with formaldehyde.
3.0 Natural Finishes
Typically require thinning.
May require that colors be added by applicator.
4.0 Adhesives
Select water-based adhesives.
Companies supplying natural finishes often offer natural adhesives.


Straw Bale Construction
DEFINITION:
Straw bale construction uses baled straw from wheat, oats, barley, rye, rice and others in walls covered
by earthen or lime stucco (some use cement stucco, but we typically dont suggest it). Straw bale are
traditionally a waste product which farmers do not till under the soil, but do sell as animal bedding or
landscape supply due to their durable nature. In many areas of the country, it is also burned, causing
severe air quality problems. It is important to recognize that straw is the dry plant material or stalk left in
the field after a plant has matured, been harvested for seed, and is no longer alive. Hay bales are made
from short species of livestock feed grass that is green/alive and are not suitable for this application. Hay
is also typically twice the price of straw.

CONSIDERATIONS:
This technique for constructing walls has been recently revived as a low cost alternative for building
highly insulating walls. The technique was practiced in the plains states in the latter 1800s and early
1900s. Many of the early structures are still standing and being used. The technique has been applied to
homes, farm buildings, schools, commercial buildings, churches, community centers, government
buildings, airplane hangars, well houses, and more.
Straw is also being used as a building material currently in sheet materials such as sheathing and wall
panels. However, the approach of using bales directly, despite its history, is a new technique from a
regulatory standpoint. In the 1990s a number of cities passed a straw bale construction building code,
followed by the state of California. We expect to see straw bale codes adopted in coming years.
Building walls with straw bales can be accomplished with unskilled labor, and the low costs of the bales
make this technique economically attractive. However, it is important to realize that the cost of straw
bales will differ depending on what time of year they are harvested and how far they need to be
transported. They are cheaper at the time of harvest rather than after they have been stored from the
previous season and, of course, cheaper if they are transported shorter distances. Bales must also be
protected from getting wet. Costs also begin to rise when one considers the type of stucco and its
application. An earthen plaster taken from site soil, applied by the owner/builder, and maintained by the
owner is quite inexpensive, but may take a long time to apply. A cement stucco applied by a contractor is
accomplished quickly and lasts a very long time without any maintenance, but also costs money. As with
any style of construction, the more labor input by the owner and the less by the contractor, the less
costly it will be.
Two basic styles of straw bale construction have been used: post and beam construction with straw bale
infill, and structural straw bale construction or Nebraska style (the weight of the roof is supported by
the bales). There are a number of straw bale buildings now located in the Austin area and local expert
consultation and construction is readily available. (See Resources)

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Strawbale




Satisfactory

Satisfactory in most conditions

Satisfactory in Limited Conditions

Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
Experimentation with straw bale construction continues. A good deal of standardization and refinement in
regard to techniques, tools, and associated materials is now appearing.
SUPPLIERS:
Straw is plentiful in many locations. However, distribution systems are not developed for straw to be used
construction.
COST:
This can be one of the most economical wall systems. Houses have been constructed for as low cost per
square foot (floor area) for very basic accomodations to high end homes at well over $100.00 per square
foot.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Building code acceptance will be key to obtaining conventional financing.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
The appearance of a completed straw bale structure is similar to a southwestern adobe style building.
This look is generally positively viewed . There will be hesitation among mainstream buyers to this
technique at first since it is new and unusual. Significant interest in this type of construction exists in our
region, although the adobe style is not typical for this area.
REGULATORY:
Any unusual building technology must be evaluated by the code enforcement authorities before approval
can be granted. This is typically done by review of another code agencys approval or position on the
technology or by review of test data supplied by a reputable independent laboratory.
In the case of straw bale construction, there are precedents of approval in other jurisdictions. Anyone
wishing to receive approval in Austin should follow the local straw bale construction code. The inspections
department in other areas can refer to the Green Building Program for locations of precedents from our
as well as other building inspection departments.
There are numerous examples of this construction in the Austin regulatory jurisdiction and in the greater
Austin area at this time. If test data is needed, the building inspection officials will indicate what is
needed. Testing is currently being done in Arizona, California and New Mexico.
At this time, there are also a number of insurance companies and lending institutions in the Austin area
that have given their approval to straw bale construction.

GUIDELINES
1.0 Summary Recommendations and Brief Overview
Straw bale construction exhibits R values from R-30 and up to R-45. The bales are typically covered with
concrete mortar/stucco or earthen/lime plaster, achieving a high degree of fire resistance.
Two hundred million tons of straw are burned annually in the US. The stability and lack of weathering in
straw is not desirable in agriculture but quite desirable in construction.
Straw in straw bale structures has not shown evidence of termite infestations.
Dry bales should be used. Moisture levels in use and in storage should be below 14%. The bales should
be kept dry after construction.
Bales may be anchored to each other for stability while under construction using stakes of wood
(1236), rebar (#3 or #4) or bamboo that penetrate at least two bales. Another less popular method
uses mortar or clay between bales. A new method uses bamboo (or similar) stakes on both sides of the
bales, tied with wire or twine, corsetting the bales. Such anchoring is generally accepted to be primarily
necessary to keep walls from toppling during construction; well applied plaster will usually provide
sufficient stability once complete though by that time, whatever pinning method was used is embedded
in the walls.
Bales can be used flat or on edge. They are best used flat for structural purposes. Plaster will also key
into the ends of the straw when bales are laid flat, whereas bales on edge will have the long length of
the straw on the wall surface, providing a weaker bond between the plaster and bale.
Bales come with two-wires or three-wires (or strings) holding them together. Two-wire bales weigh about
50 pounds and three-wire bales, 75-100 pounds. Two-wire bales are usually 14 inches high, 18 inches
wide, and 32-40 inches long (typical in Texas). Three-wire bales are 16-17 inches high, 23-24 inches
wide, and 42-47 inches long (typical in western states).
Bales should be firm and strung tightly with either baling wire or twine. Half bales and whole bales are
needed so the bales are staggered when stacked.
A timber frame construction (or steel or concrete) can use bales as infill. The frame adds to the expense
in materials and in labor for constructing it and then working around the frame with the bales. However,
this approach will be more readily received by building officials.
Window and door frames and headers can be made from wood. Windows and doors are typically
accentuated towards the interior or (less preferable) exterior of the opening creating a deep well. Care is
needed to if creating a deep well on the exterior to avoid water entering or collecting in these areas.
Windows tend to be a point of failure due to water invasion, so they must be detailed carefully.
A wood plate or concrete beam (or bond beam) is placed on top of the wall. Trusses or roof framing can
be set on this. A threaded bar can penetrate through the top bales and be fastened to the plate or beam
for added roof stability
Poultry netting can be mounted on both sides of the walls for plastering, though it is no longer
considered mandatory by many bale builders. Stucco lath is used around windows, doors, and corners for
added strength. The wire netting and lath are typically held against the bales by wire ties through the
bales or U shaped pins into the bales.
Utilities can be laid in the walls as they are built, laid against the bales after the walls are built or run in
moldings, interior walls, under floors, or in the attic.
Structural/Load Bearing, or Nebraska Style, straw bale construction requires that the bales sit for a
short period of time to complete any settling before stucco is added, or that the walls be mechanically
pre-compressed. If the bales are firm, there will be very little settling (typically less than 1 inch). A wire
tie-down system which is connected to the foundation and the top plate, application of downward
pressure using a front end loader bucket or similar, or any of a number of other techniques have the
ability to firm up the wall and compress it to compensate for any settling concerns.
Approximately 10,000 acres of wheat and oats are harvested in the Travis County region each year. Eight
to ten acres can supply sufficient straw to build a small house.
The best time to obtain straw is at harvest time, May through June in central Texas.
More details are becoming available for working with straw bales. See the General Assistance listings in
the Resources in the right column. Thorough research is recommended prior to using straw bales for
construction.