Essential Cob Construction: A Guide to Design, Engineering, and Building

Cob is a popular natural building method, but due to a lack of engineering and design information, it can be difficult to permit and use in inappropriate ways. Recent research and a newly developed building code promise to make cob building more accessible. Essential Cob Construction sets the new standard for cob construction, covering appropriate use, thermal performance, moisture management, structural and architectural design considerations, hands-on cob construction, building code development, and quality control.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 16 January 2024
Publisher: New Society Publishers

Cob, a blend of clay, sand, and straw, is a highly renowned and widely adopted natural building technique. However, its widespread utilization often faces challenges due to inadequate engineering and design knowledge, leading to improper permitting and misuse. Fortunately, recent research and the development of a new building code have the potential to revolutionize cob building, making it more accessible and practical than ever before.

Setting the Standard for Modern Cob Construction:

From Design to Engineering and Building Code Compliance:

Essential Cob Construction provides a comprehensive guide to cob construction, encompassing every aspect from design to engineering and building code compliance. It delves into the appropriate use of cob in diverse climates and contexts, ensuring its thermal performance and moisture management are optimized. The book also covers structural and architectural design considerations, including fire and earthquake resistance data derived from extensive laboratory testing.

Hands-On Cob Construction:

The book offers practical insights into hands-on cob construction, covering a range of techniques such as mix design, testing, manual and mechanical mixing, wall building, strong connections with foundations, roofs, and other structural elements, and finishing options. It provides step-by-step instructions to guide builders through the entire construction process, ensuring the highest quality and durability of cob structures.

Building Code Development and the Permitting Process:

Understanding the complexities of building code development and the permitting process is crucial for successful cob construction. Essential Cob Construction provides comprehensive coverage of these topics, including the International Residential Code's Appendix on Cob Construction. It equips builders with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the permitting process and ensure compliance with local building regulations.

Planning, Budgeting, and Quality Control:

Successful cob construction requires meticulous planning, budgeting, and quality control. Essential Cob Construction offers valuable guidance on these aspects, helping builders develop effective project plans, allocate resources efficiently, and maintain the highest standards of craftsmanship throughout the construction process.

Who Should Read Essential Cob Construction?

Engineers, architects, designers, contractors, and owner-builders involved in working with cob as a building material will find this book invaluable. It serves as a comprehensive reference guide, providing essential insights and practical knowledge to enhance their understanding and expertise in cob construction.

Conclusion:

Essential Cob Construction sets a new standard for cob construction, offering a comprehensive and up-to-date guide to this ancient and aesthetically pleasing building material. By incorporating rigorous engineering and building science, hands-on construction techniques, and comprehensive building code knowledge, this book empowers builders to create sustainable, low-carbon structures that meet modern standards of quality and durability. Whether you are an experienced builder or a newcomer to cob construction, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock the full potential of this versatile and sustainable building method.

Weight: 718g
Dimension: 216 x 280 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780865719682