When designed with the artisan as your guide, these wall projects may become works of art. The earthen walls are an artisans dream. If their not in your planning from the start, then start over. Without them all you have is earthen walls. With the artisan you have a work of art. It is the details that make the difference.
http://www.earthwall.net/page%20design/benefits/beauty/beauty.htm
http://www.semmesco.com/methods/finishes.shtml
http://www.rammedearthworks.com/
One sided forms with mud shot 2′ to 3′ high and allowed to dry. A faster interior wall using the same rammed earth mud mix.
Shot on with a gunite spray gun, the open face makes it easier to install both electrical and plumbing.
http://www.motherearthnews.com/Green-Homes/1996-04-01/Clay-Wall-Home.aspx
http://www.dwell.com/articles/pise-does-it.html
There is a learning curve to earthen walls. Start with a very small project working with someone who is training you or you are helping. Don’t expect yourself to pick this up in a day or week. Think in terms of a storage shed or very small workshop first. Work with someone who has experience with both rammed earth and P.I.S.E.
A general contractor who knows the area and the process is the only way to get started. Remember to think small first. One or two windows, one door, keep your project small so you can learn both methods. If you have helpers go with the rammed earth on your exterior walls. You will need help building the forms and learning how to mix your mud. You will also need help with tools until you learn how to use them. The right tools will make or break you on any job so learn what you must rent and always rent first until you learn how to maintain and use the equipment. The advantage of the general contractor is they will have all of the tools needed and this will save you a great deal of money while your learning.
Rent different brands until you find the one you like.
Remember you may go years between projects. Rent your tools. This doesn’t mean you don’t want to own nailers and a first rate compressor. You will also need a very good portable table saw.
If the first small project goes as planned and you stay on budget, think in terms of something just a little bit bigger. Do not jump into a big project until you are ready. Think no larger than 800 sq.ft. for the first 3 or 4 projects. Don’t get ahead of yourself. It’s the accents that make the difference. Arches, window & door designs. Etchings and engravings carved into the wall. This is where you add value to the project. Keep the little details in mind in all your planning and bring art into the design. It is the artisan that will make your project unique. Bring them into your planning from the very start. You will be surprised with the ideas they will have that will make your planning and design that much better. Think of your project as a canvass for the artisan and allow them to see each exterior wall and interior wall with their own vision.
