I would also investigate Radiant Barrier by Innovative Insulation in Texas, and Geobond in Kansas City. ----- Original Message ----- From: [email protected] To: [email protected] Sent: Monday, November 14, 2005 12:30 AM Subject: Re: CS>Ode? Anyone? Ecologically sustainable housing??
I had the same vision, and looked into alternative building materials--Rastra block (cement that is poured into foam molds, with rebar inside--great to cut heating and cooling costs), hay bale house (cheap, with the feel of adobe, but beware of rats and mold if not done right), underground house (do this right or you'll have problems similar to those in a basement). I ended up doing standard but beefed up construction--4 X 6 wood, with plywood covering inside and out, roof tiles nailed down, roof bolted to walls, walls bolted to foundation--the same requirements as for hospitals and schools. We have our own well, our own solar power (partial only, as it is still expensive, even with a government-supported rebate). The hay bale idea sounded great, but I live in earthquake country. Rastra was too expensive, and too difficult to make changes in electrical wiring once it is up. With R-19 insulation in the 4 X 6 walls, though, we rarely use air conditioning or heating (except for wood burning and pellet stoves). Also, dual pane window glass, with gas inside, cuts down on heating and air conditioning costs, as do appropriate window coverings. Don't underestimate the difficulty of getting anything unusual OK'd by the planning department, unless you are planning to build without a permit. Also, if you do anything out of the ordinary, you may have to do it yourself, as it is hard to find someone to do anything but the usual standard stuff. Jill P.S. It turned out WONDERFULLY, but what an undertaking! I would only have energy for this sort of effort once in a lifetime, though.
