The Basics of Constructing using Earthbag Construction

Earthbag construction is a technique where bags, usually filled with soil, sand, gravel, and other natural materials, are used to construct walls and foundations or to create earth-sheltered homes. This type of construction is incredibly versatile and can be used to create a variety of structures, from simple homes to large, multi-story buildings. It can also be used to create eco-friendly and sustainable buildings that are well-insulated and low-cost.

How does earthbag construction work?

To build a structure with earthbag construction, begin by laying out the foundation. If you are building a dome or other curved structure, use stakes and strings to outline the foundation. The bags can then be filled with soil, gravel, and/or other materials, depending on the desired strength and insulation. The bags are then placed in rows and can be tied together with string, mesh, or even metal rods.

Once the walls are in place, a base coat of cement stucco is usually applied to waterproof the walls. After the base coat is applied, you can then apply a finishing coat. Finally, the structure can be covered with a roof, either with traditional materials such as shingles or with a more sustainable option such as a living roof.

Earthbag construction is a great option for a variety of building projects. It is an affordable, low-tech option that is easy to learn and can be tailored to suit various needs. Plus, it is incredibly eco-friendly, since it uses minimal resources and produces very little waste.

What materials are used in earthbag construction?

Earthbag construction uses a variety of materials to create walls, foundations, and other structures. Typical materials for earthbag construction include woven polypropylene bags filled with moist, compacted earth or other soil mixtures; barbed wire; gravel; and a variety of adhesives and sealants. The bags are typically arranged in a double row and connected using barbed wire to create a structure.?

The earth used in an earthbag structure must be free of organic matter and have a clay content of at least 25%. The soil should also be moist, but not too wet or dry. Gravel may be used in the foundation to create a more even base, while adhesives and sealants are used to ensure the structure is sound and waterproof. Rebar can also be used to reinforce the walls of the building. It is inserted into the bags before they are filled.

What are the steps of earthbag construction?

1. Site selection: choose an area that is free from flooding, is level, and is protected from strong wind and sunlight.

2. Polypropylene bags: fill these bags with a mixture of soil and cement, or other locally available materials like sand, gravel, rock, and soil.

3. Foundation: Create a foundation for your earthbag structure. This can be made from gravel, concrete, or other materials.

4. Lay the bags: Start by laying the polypropylene bags in a staggered pattern, and then fill each bag with the soil/cement mixture.

5. Tamping: Once the bags are laid and filled, they need to be tamped. This helps to stabilize the structure.

6. Bond beams: Bond beams are horizontal layers of bags that are filled with soil and cement. This adds strength and stability to the structure.

7. Barbed wire: Add barbed wire between the bag layers. This helps hold them in place and increases the overall stability of the structure.

8. Finish: Once the structure is complete, you can then finish it with a plaster or other material.

What tools are needed for earthbag construction?

To build with earthbags, the tools needed include:

? A shovel: This is the most important tool for earthbag construction. It's used to dig a foundation and prepare the soil for packing into the bags.

? Fabric bags: The bags used for earthbag construction should be made of a strong, permeable material such as burlap or jute.

? Gravel and sand: These materials are needed to fill the bags and provide a stable base for construction.

? Stakes: Stakes are used to secure the bags during construction and provide additional stability.

? A tamping tool: This tool is used to compress the soil within the bags, ensuring a strong and durable structure.

? A level: A level is an essential tool for checking that the walls are plumb and the foundation is level.

? A masonry trowel: A masonry trowel is needed to seal the joints between the bags, helping to make the structure watertight.

? A wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow is useful for transporting tools, materials, and soil to the construction site.

? A safety helmet: A safety helmet should always be worn when building with earthbags. It will protect you from falling debris and other hazards.

What are the challenges of earthbag construction?

One of the biggest challenges of earthbag construction is finding the right types of soil and other materials. Depending on the design of the structure, you may need to use a specific type of soil or mix of soils, and it can be difficult to find the right kind. In addition, you need to find the right type of organic material to fill the bags, such as straw, wood chips, or even chicken wire.

Another challenge is stabilizing the earthbags. After the bags are filled and stacked, you need to apply some type of stabilizing material, such as concrete, plaster, or stucco. This additional material adds to the cost of the build and requires additional time and expertise.

Finally, there are waterproofing and durability concerns. While earthbag structures are generally quite durable and can last for many years, they are not waterproof. You will need to take extra steps to protect the structure from water damage, such as installing waterproof barriers or sealants.

Earthbag construction is a great way to build structures cheaply and with natural materials, but it is important to consider the challenges before beginning a project. Finding the right materials, stabilizing the bags, and ensuring the structure is waterproof are all critical considerations. With the right planning and preparation, though, earthbag construction can be successfully done.

What safety considerations should be taken when constructing with earthbags?

For starters, the bags should be filled with dirt that is free from debris, rocks, and organic material. This prevents any sharp objects from puncturing the bag as they are filled, avoiding potential accidents or injuries.

The soil should also be free of large particles, as this can cause the bags to clump together when wet, making them more difficult to work with. Additionally, the soil should be damp, not dry, when filling the bags. This allows the soil to settle and form a strong structure.

It is also important to be mindful of the environment when constructing with earthbags. In some places, there may be restrictions on the construction of such buildings and it is important to research and comply with local regulations.

Finally, protective clothing and equipment should be worn when working with earthbags. This includes gloves, masks, and goggles, to protect against the dust created when filling the bags.

How long does it take to build with earthbags?

Building with earthbags is a great way to construct a durable and sustainable structure. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, the time it takes to build with earthbags can vary. Generally, it can take between 1-8 weeks to complete an earthbag building project, with most projects taking around two weeks. However, factors such as the size of the project and the experience of the builders can have a significant impact on the timeline. Additionally, preparation and planning are essential before starting an earthbag construction project. When done correctly and with care, earthbag building can be an effective and efficient method of construction.

What types of structures can be built with earthbag construction?

Depending on the structure's purpose and design, earthbag construction can be used to build small and large structures, including homes, shelters, retaining walls, cisterns, storage sheds, root cellars, patio/deck structures and even tall structures like windbreaks and fences. Earthbag construction can also be used in combination with other natural building materials, such as adobe or rammed earth, to create strong and durable structures.

Kenya's Earthbag Construction Sector Players

Currently, there seems to be no entity specializing in earthbag construction. However, buildings such as one in Kericho have been constructed using this methodology, saving up to Ksh. 2,000,000 at the time of construction.

If you're looking for a sustainable and affordable way of building construction, then consider incorporating earthbag construction.