Prefab Earth Sheltered Homes: A Look at What They Are

Are you looking for an eco-friendly and sustainable housing option? Consider prefab earth sheltered homes. These unique homes offer energy-efficient living and are gaining popularity among those seeking a greener lifestyle.

Earth-sheltered homes are divided into two main types: underground and bermed. Underground homes are built entirely below ground level, while bermed homes have earth covering one or more walls. Both types provide numerous advantages, such as increased insulation, reduced maintenance, and protection against natural disasters.

However, prefab earth sheltered homes also come with their own set of challenges, including higher construction costs and the need for careful moisture management. Resale considerations can also be a factor. When designing one of these homes, factors such as climate, topography, soil type, and groundwater level should be taken into account.

Key Takeaways:

• Prefab earth sheltered homes offer eco-friendly and sustainable housing options.
• There are two main types: underground and bermed homes.
• Advantages include increased insulation, reduced maintenance, and protection against natural disasters.
• Challenges include higher construction costs and careful moisture management.
• Consider site-specific factors when designing an earth sheltered home.

Types of Earth-Sheltered Homes

When it comes to earth-sheltered homes, there are two main types that offer unique benefits: underground homes and bermed homes.

Underground Homes

Underground homes, as the name suggests, are built entirely below ground level. These homes often feature an atrium or courtyard design, which not only provides an open and spacious feeling but also allows for natural light and scenic views. The atrium or courtyard acts as a central focal point, providing access to sunlight and creating a connection with the outdoors.

Bermed Homes

Bermed homes have earth covering one or more walls, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding landscape. There are two types of bermed homes: elevational and penetrational. Elevational bermed homes have one exposed face while penetrational bermed homes have earth covering all walls except for windows and doors. As these homes are designed to take advantage of the southern exposure, they offer natural lighting and heating benefits. The earth covering acts as insulation, protecting the home from heat loss and reducing energy consumption.

Both underground and bermed homes provide excellent energy efficiency and sustainability through passive solar gain and cross-ventilation. The earth’s thermal mass helps regulate the temperature inside the homes, reducing the need for additional heating or cooling. The unique designs of these homes not only enhance their energy efficiency but also create a connection with nature, making them an attractive option for environmentally conscious individuals.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Earth-Sheltered Homes

Earth-sheltered homes offer several advantages over conventional homes. One of the key benefits is their energy efficiency. These homes provide increased insulation, which helps to reduce the impact of extreme outdoor temperatures. By using the ground as a natural barrier, earth-sheltered homes can maintain a more stable internal temperature, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs.

Another advantage of earth-sheltered homes is reduced maintenance. The earth covering helps to protect the home from weathering and UV damage, reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance tasks. Additionally, these homes blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless integration with nature.

Earth-sheltered homes also offer protection against natural disasters. The earth covering provides a layer of insulation and structural support, making these homes more resilient to high winds, hailstorms, and other extreme weather conditions. They can provide a safe haven in areas prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires.

However, there are some disadvantages associated with earth-sheltered homes. One consideration is the higher construction costs. Building an earth-sheltered home requires additional excavation and earth-moving work, which can increase the overall construction costs compared to traditional above-ground homes.

Moisture management is another important factor to consider. Proper waterproofing and drainage systems are essential to prevent water infiltration and potential moisture-related issues. This is crucial both during the construction phase and throughout the life of the house, as moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage if not properly managed.

Resale of earth-sheltered homes may also pose challenges. While these homes offer unique benefits, they are still considered a niche market. As a result, finding potential buyers and securing financing for these types of homes can be more complicated, requiring additional efforts and specialized knowledge in the real estate market.

Site-Specific Considerations for Earth-Sheltered Home Design

Designing an earth-sheltered home requires careful consideration of various site-specific factors. The climate of the area plays a significant role in determining the feasibility and efficiency of earth-sheltered homes. These homes are more cost-effective in regions with significant temperature extremes and low humidity.

The topography and microclimate of the site also need to be taken into account. The ease of surrounding the building with earth depends on the site’s topography. South-facing slopes are particularly advantageous for passive solar heat gain, which helps regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy consumption.

Another important consideration is the type of soil on the site. Granular soils, such as sand and gravel, are ideal for earth-sheltered homes as they provide good bearing capacity and drainage. These properties help ensure the stability and durability of the structure.

The groundwater level is a critical factor that must not be overlooked. Understanding the groundwater level is essential to prevent water pressure against underground walls, which could lead to moisture issues and compromise the structural integrity of the home.

All these site-specific factors contribute to the energy efficiency and overall performance of an earth-sheltered home. By carefully considering these elements during the design and planning phase, homeowners can create a living space that maximizes heat gain, minimizes heat loss, and optimizes energy efficiency.

Construction Materials and Considerations for Earth-Sheltered Homes

When it comes to constructing earth-sheltered homes, specific materials and considerations are necessary to ensure durability, energy efficiency, and protection against environmental factors. Let’s explore some of the key elements involved in building these unique homes.

Concrete: Strength, Durability, and Fire Resistance

Concrete is a popular choice for earth-sheltered homes due to its strength, durability, and fire resistance. It provides a solid foundation and structural integrity, ensuring the longevity of the home. Additionally, concrete masonry units can be used as a cost-effective alternative to solid concrete walls.

Wood: Versatile for Interior and Light Structural Work

Wood is another commonly used material in earth-sheltered homes, particularly for interior finishes and light structural work. It adds warmth and aesthetic appeal to the living spaces while providing flexibility in design. However, it’s important to protect wood from moisture damage to maintain its integrity.

Steel: Beams, Columns, and Reinforcement

Steel plays a crucial role in providing structural support for earth-sheltered homes. It is commonly used for beams, columns, and reinforcement in concrete construction. Exposed steel elements should be properly protected against corrosion to maintain their strength and structural integrity over time.

Waterproofing: Essential for Preventing Water Damage

Waterproofing is a critical consideration in the construction of earth-sheltered homes. It prevents water damage and moisture infiltration, which can lead to structural issues and mold growth. Various waterproofing systems, such as rubberized asphalt and plastic/vulcanized sheets, can be applied to ensure a watertight envelope.

Insulation: Maintaining Comfort and Energy Efficiency

Insulation is essential for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and achieving energy efficiency in earth-sheltered homes. It helps regulate heat transfer, reducing heat gain in warmer months and heat loss in colder months. Insulation is typically placed on the exterior walls, ensuring optimal thermal performance.

Ventilation: Ensuring Good Indoor Air Quality

Adequate ventilation is crucial in earth-sheltered homes to ensure good indoor air quality. Proper ventilation helps remove stale air, control humidity levels, and prevent indoor pollutants from accumulating. Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems can be incorporated to enhance energy efficiency by recovering heat from outgoing air.

In conclusion, constructing earth-sheltered homes requires careful consideration of construction materials and various factors. Concrete, wood, and steel are commonly used for structural integrity and flexibility. Waterproofing is crucial to prevent water damage, and insulation plays a key role in maintaining comfort and energy efficiency. Adequate ventilation ensures good indoor air quality. By selecting the right materials and addressing these considerations, earth-sheltered homes can be built to provide a sustainable, energy-efficient, and comfortable living environment.

Earth-Sheltered Homes: From Earthships to Modern Construction

Earth-sheltered homes have a fascinating history that dates back to the 1980s when the concept of Earthships emerged. Earthships were pioneering homes that utilized reclaimed materials and passive solar design principles to create sustainable living spaces. These innovative homes embraced the idea of incorporating the earth into their construction, providing a unique blend of eco-building and energy performance.

Further advancements in earth-sheltered homes came to fruition with projects like the Hockerton Housing Project in the UK. This initiative pushed the boundaries of sustainable housing by integrating thick insulation and modern ventilation systems into their designs. By doing so, they elevated the Earthship concept to a new level of efficiency and comfort.

Today, earth-sheltered homes offer an incredible opportunity for sustainable living. They provide both environmental and economic benefits, promoting sustainability while reducing energy consumption. These homes are designed to minimize heat loss during the winter months and maintain coolness in the summer, resulting in reduced reliance on heating and cooling systems.

With advancements in construction techniques, earth-sheltered homes have become more accessible and efficient. They exemplify the marriage between modern technology and sustainable architecture, showcasing the potential for a greener future in residential building.

Conclusion

Earth-sheltered homes provide a unique and sustainable solution for energy-efficient living. These homes harness the natural thermal properties of the earth, offering increased insulation and reducing the reliance on external climate conditions. However, constructing an earth-sheltered home requires careful consideration of various site-specific factors.

Factors such as climate, topography, soil type, and groundwater level all play a crucial role in the design and construction of earth-sheltered homes. By customizing the home to these specific factors, homeowners can optimize energy efficiency and overall performance.

In addition to site-specific considerations, the choice of construction materials, waterproofing, insulation, and ventilation systems greatly impact the comfort and longevity of an earth-sheltered home. The right selection and implementation of these elements ensure a greener and more sustainable future for housing, contributing to a healthier environment and reduced energy consumption.

Earth-sheltered homes offer a compelling alternative to traditional housing, merging sustainable living with energy efficiency. By taking into account construction considerations and site-specific factors, these homes provide an eco-friendly solution that harmoniously integrates with the natural landscape while reducing the carbon footprint.

Source Links

• https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/efficient-earth-sheltered-homes
• https://www.treehugger.com/green-magic-homes-are-probably-neither-4858683
• https://www.granddesignsmagazine.com/self-build/earth-sheltered-homes/