Green building or natural building is a hot topic these days as cities are mandating green rooftops and the use of less toxic building materials in response to the cry for a more balanced harmony with Mother Earth. The prevelance of disease and allergies running amuck in modern civilization points to an overload of environmental toxins and so when new families begin exploring options on the housing market, they often consider a green builder or design with low impact for their children to grow up in.
While green building may give a first impression of being too expensive and out of reach, you should know that 80% of the world's dwellings are made from natural materials. Primarily, earth. Clay, bamboo, strawbale, earth bag, cob, waddle and daub, and recycled natural wood- untreated by pressure and chemicals, are some of the other materials commonly used in natural building.
Using natural materials when building your home or office, results in a feel good environment because you know that you are surrounded by non-toxic materials coming directly from the earth, not to mention the energetic radiance of such buildings. Building green also means that you are using natural resources local to your area which will costs a lot less than importing stone or hardwood, roofing materials, and new windows and fixtures for a commercially built structure.
Making good use of discarded window frames, sinks, tubs, and glass bottles are wonderful additions to a natural building. Colored wine or liquor bottles can be inserted in cob (clay mortar) walls for extra light and an added artistic touch. Marbles, seashells, tiles and other ornaments make unique additions to inner or outer walls. Creativity is key when building naturally.
Building a green roof by layering weatherproofing and carpet and then added soil and seeds, you will soon have a living roof that will act as a coolant in the summer. It is also very pretty! In the winter, you will enjoy extra insulation and stay toasty warm.
Including a French drain around the perimeter of your green roof ensures that extra rain water has a place to go without water logging your home in the event of a downpour. Begin by digging a small ditch just below the roof's lip about 5 inches deep and fill with small gravel or stones. Direct the edges of your drain towards a planter or garden. The use of water and the plants around your building will take a little forethought to maximize your use of space and ability to enjoy fresh fruit, vegetables, and flowers throughout the seasons. Plan ahead and reap the benefits later!
Building naturally can be done on your own, with a group of friends, or with the guidance of an experienced green builder. While it may seem intimidating, it is actually quite easy, although it is a more careful and time intensive process. The joy of natural building comes from using your own two hands and minimal tools to create structure. Working in community with friends and family will make the process more enjoyable for everyone. Reconnecting to what's real in life is as easy as inviting your neighbors, family, friends, and co-workers over to help put in an earthen floor. It doesn't get more real than that. Its amazing how much fun it is though!
Building naturally has been around as long as human civilization and only 20% of the world's population have deviated from the practice. Rediscover natural building for yourself and rediscover the roots to your humanity and your connection with the earth. Community, harmony, love of nature and of life will be some of the positive by products of your new construction and the final result will be a home or workspace that you can feel good about for so many reasons.
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