FAQ Center
Welcome to our FAQ Center. Here you can find the answers to your most asked questions. Jim and his team have done the research it takes and have the experience needed to answer your questions with detail. With dozens of questions and answers, and more to come, we are here to help.
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All FAQ's
What is a Compressed Earth Block?
A CEB is a machine made adobe. It is comprised of clay, sand, silt and gravel. The CEB can be stabilized with portland cement or lime. CEB sometimes don’t need gravel, other times gravel is needed to increase the strength of the block. There are many factors that are involved in the making of an Earth Block.
What Type of Foundation is Required?
Either traditional footing and stem wall or rubble trench. The depth and the amount of reinforcement will be dependent on local building codes.
How tall can a CEB building be?
How much soil is required?
How do I finish the Surface of a Compressed Earth Block wall?
The blocks can be left raw on the inside. You can be left unfinished on the outside as long as the blocks are highly stabilized, (10% or more portland cement.) Exterior finishes can range from a clear sealer to a limed plaster to cement stucco. For interior finishes we recommend clay to preserve the breathability of the wall. DO NOT PAINT.
Can a CEB wall stand up to seismic activity?
How much does a CEB wall cost?
Are compressed earth blocks water resistant?
Can I use any type of soil?
No. The soil must have ideally between 10% - 30% clay. The soil must me screenable and nor can it be organic matter. The soil should be relatively dry but adding 10% moisture helps hold the block together.
Why do I need clay in the soil?
Why cement, lime, or another type of binder?
What is the density of a compressed Earth Block?
How Much Moisture is Required for CEB’s?
How Long does an Earthen Building Last?
Why do I need Clay in the Soil?
Clay is the binder that holds the CEB together. There are 4 ingredients to soil anywhere in the world. Clay is unique in that it has a negative electrical charge. The clay combines with the other ingredients in the block under pressure to produce the finished CEB.
What is the Mechanical Resistance of an Earth Block?
Can Earth Blocks be used for Good Sound Insulation?
Are Earthen Structures Strong?
How do CEB’s Perform in the Rain?
The block perform extremely well if properly stabilized. Earth Blocks can be heavily stabilized with 10% or more portland cement, or they can be moderately stabilized with 4-5% portland cement. They can also be unstabilized, which deteriorate if exposed to water. Unstabilized blocks can be protected by plaster, roof overhangs, or a stem wall.
How do Earth Blocks Perform in Temperature Swings?
How do Earth Blocks Perform in Tropical Climates?