Who here knows anything about Cob homes? From what I understand its a mixture of sand, earth and straw mixed together into lumps and molded into a dwelling.

From what I understand you can practically create anything from cob but you cannot build too high? Why not?

I have property in Belize and have been seriously thinking of using cob to build not only a home but some cottages (If its too complex then maybe only the cottages)

What is the best climate for a cob dwelling? Is cob convenient in humid climates? I understand that it must be kept very dry during the building process but once it has hardened will it mold in humidity over time? Does it regulate temperature so it remains cool in the summer and warm in cooler climates?

How practical is this really? I have heard that building from cob is really labor intensive as it takes an entire team because the molds must be built by hand. Are there actual cob builders left? I was thinking of taking a cob workshop but to tell you the truth I am not interested in building an entire structure myself though I have an interest in the process. I have heard that it is much cheaper to build with cob. As far as planning is it really necessary to know where every outlet will be in a plan? Which means finding an architect who knows a lot about this process. I have heard that you have to think in advance were all electrical lines will run as it has to be built in before its hardened otherwise you cannot be accommodated.

http://cobincornwall.com/index2.htm

dont know much about cob houses,
but for the lowest cost and efficiency these houses made of old tires filled with dirt would be my choice
http://www.earthship.net/buildings.html
www.earthship.com

Hello,

I have a web site (refer to my profile for link)

If you go to my Internet Links then to Architectural, on this page you will find links to Green Building type of structures etc. and more.

Hope it helps and if you find anything that I don't list send me the link and I'd be happy to add,
Sven

Thanks Sven. Where is the link?

Do they have any capability for rammed earth over there?

I've always wanted to build that way. As far as I know it's an Australian thing though,not as common overseas. And... it can be expensive to build (but the long run savings will offset that).

It can be found all over the world but Cob is english. There are some cob homes in the States but very few. The cost is because of the need of lots of labor isn't it? Because the soil is already provided by the property given that its the right type and the straw etc doesn't cost so much. In Belize the labor is cheap so it shouldn't be so expensive. Sven sent me his resources site:

http://cad-design.design.officelive.com/Other.aspx

Lucy, the structural integrity of a cob home is extremely poor during an earthquake. Unless you live in an area where the chance of an earthquake is virtually nil, I would never consider this type of dwelling. Unfortunately Belize is prone to earthquakes, as you must know. The Swan Island Transform fault is just offshore, and caused a 7.1 magnitude quake back in May 2009.

You will find that the proponents of cob homes say they are "more earthquake resistant" than adobe, but what they DON'T mention is that either adobe or cob is 10X (or more) more prone to earthquake damage than a properly designed structure of wood, steel or reinforced concrete.

There is no way I would live in a cob home in that area, no matter how well-designed, it is far too weak and subject to instant collapse in even a minor earthquake.

http://www.popsci.com/environment/ar...slip-youre-out

I just saw a TV show on this the other day. It really is quite amazing the community they've developed. Completely self-reliant and self-sufficient. I've honestly considered joining them.