Contrary to stereotypes, adobe is perfectly adaptable for use in cold, wet climates as well as hot and dry ones, and with its efficient use of energy, natural resources for construction, and minimal effort for long-term maintenance, it's clear that the humble adobe brick is an ideal option for constructing eco-friendly structures throughout the world. The book is ideal both for first-time do-it-yourselfers and for experienced adobe builders seeking to improve their craft. Drawing on the experience of more than fifty major adobe projects since 1993, Adobe Homes for All Climates describes Adobe Building Systems' patented reinforcement and scaffolding systems, showing readers how to construct adobe homes more easily and safely, and with superior strength, durability, structural integrity, and aesthetic appeal, as compared to earthen homes of the past.

Table of Contents

Preview of the Complete Construction Proces. Getting Started with Your Design. Materials for Adobe Construction. Preparation of Site, Equipment, and Materials. Adobe Madre Brick Types and Molds. Making an Adobe Mix. Adobe Brick Making. Adobe Brick Curing and Storage. Footings, Foundations, and Floors. Preparation for Adobe Wall Construction. The Crew for Adobe Wall Construction. Guidelines for Laying Adobe Bricks. Reinforcing in Detail. Creating the Reinforced Concrete Column. Preventing Cracks. Adobe Madre Scaffolding System. Electrical and Services. Installing Lintels. Installing Adobe Brick Arches. Installing Joinery. Installing a Bond-Beam. Wall Construction Process Overview. Choosing a Finish. Preparing Your Materials for Finishing. Wall Finish Application Methods.

About the Author

Lisa Morey Schroder has a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering and Management as well as a diploma in Architectural Design. She worked alongside Ogletree for five years before founding Adobe Building Systems, LLC. She has been involved in the design and planning stages of dozens of adobe homes and has years of hands-on experience in all aspects of adobe construction. Schroder lives with her husband and two children in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Reviews

"Adobe has always been thought of as a material for the hot, arid parts of the world. Now Lisa and Vince show us how to build with adobe in cold and wet climates, too. This is good news!"--Quentin Wilson, director, Adobe Construction Program, Northern New Mexico College