This course provides a survey of non-standard building materials, from quasi-mainstream options like insulated concrete forms and structural insulated panels, to alternatives like ferrocement, slipform concrete, steel/wood hybridization, and stone, to edgy options including hemp crete, bottle walls, used tires, and other recycled materials. We'll consider the pros and cons of each material in different climates and contexts, as well as the practical techniques required for their effective use, their implication on other aspects of the building process, and the philosophy of non-standard code compliance.
Course start time: Saturday, 9am
Course end time: Sunday, 5pm
- Competency Level: Beginner to Intermediate
INTRO TO ALTERNATIVE BUILDING MATERIALS
DAY #1
09:00 Introductions
09:30 Definitions - “The What”
10:00 Philosophy - “The Why”
10:15 Building System – “The How”
10:30 BREAK
10:45 Materials – “The Where”
11:00 Use – “The When”
11:15 Philosophy of Code Compliance
11:30 5 p’s
11:40 Morning Wrap up Discussion
12:10 LUNCH
13:00 Systems Presentation
- Standard Materials -- ICF, SIP, Precast Wall, Fabrics, FPSF, Autoclave, Concrete, Steel/Wood Hybrid, Foam Glass
- Rare Materials – Ferro Cement, Slip Form, 100% Healthy, Stone
- Eclectic Materials – Hemp Crete, Bottle Walls, Tires, 100% Recycled, Earthen Plasters, Earth/Cement Floor/Walls, Strawbale, Cob, Locust, Earth Block
- High Tech / New Materials – Aerogel, VIP, Phase Change Materials, Chromatic Change Glass
15:00 Discussion
15:30 BREAK
15:45 Afternoon Exercise – Hands on Project - TBD
DINNER
DAY #2
09:00 Discussion
09:30 Morning Exercise – Hands on Project - TBD
10:30 BREAK
10:45 Design Exercise – Small Structure
12:15 LUNCH
13:15 Presentations and Critique of Small Structure Designs
14:45 BREAK
15:00 Afternoon Exercise – Hands on Project - TBD
16:00 Wrap up
Photo Gallery
Video
Events