NewsA Beginner’s Guide to Rammed Earth
Looking to integrate rammed earth into your home, but unsure where to start?
Never fear! We’ve got all the insider knowledge you need to start your rammed earth building project and ensure smooth operations – and we’re happy to share our know-how with you.
Rammed earth is something of a unicorn building material: it is abundant, cost-effective, conducive to energy efficient homes and, added bonus, it can be used to create stunning visual effects. However, incorporating rammed earth walls does require careful planning and preparation, so it is important to choose the right team to get your project done without unnecessary complications.
1. Choose a designer who understands the product
If you want to work with rammed earth, it needs to be part of the building process from the concept stage.
Rammed earth walls are typically around 300mm wide (although there are 500mm options) and openings for doors and windows need to be set out to suit the formwork.
The Thirdson Construction team is happy to recommend one of our trusted designers to get your project off to the best start.
2. Engineering experience matters!
Rammed earth may not be rocket-science…but it is a science / artform in its own right regardless.
The material is tampered onsite, so it’s important to ensure the right conditions. The contractors need to have adequate space to be able to perform the job and still have the correct amount of reinforcement for tiedown and bracing. It’s imperative that your designer builder and engineer communicate clearly in the early stages of the project to get you the ideal result.
3. No uncertain Certifiers!
Rammed earth is not a product within the National Construction Code – and that means you need to take some additional steps to make sure your overall project is compliant with the relevant authorities.
Choosing a building certifier, who already has a sound understanding of rammed earth in relation to termite control, insulation, weather proofing and performance solutions, is going to set your building project up for success.
4. Get the Expert Installers/Contractors on Board!
Big heads up: There are only two businesses in Queensland that will work with rammed earth – so it is important to get your chosen team involved from the concept stage.
This will ensure that they are willing and ready to work with you when building time rolls around; and it also means they can ensure your designs are within the realm of their possibilities.
Thirdson Construction has collaborated with 4thPig and we can’t recommend these passionate artisans enough.
If you would like more information about rammed earth and the process of creating your dream building project using this fantastic material, check out the Australian Government’s Rammed Earth page or contact the Thirdson Construction team for a chat.
We’re always happy to talk shop.
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Thirdson Construction Pty Ltd
Brisbane QLD 4068
License number: 1266399