On the other hand, homes that are built into the earth don’t have to be made from entirely organic materials. Other styles and thoughtsĮarth homes can also be houses built using entirely organic materials, including soil, and don’t have to be built directly into the earth. However, completely underground homes can be more challenging in terms of ventilation and emergency egress, and they require extensive waterproofing and drainage to prevent moisture issues. Most people choose to install light wells to bring natural light into the home. This type of design provides the most insulation, which can result in significant energy savings for heating and cooling. These homes are built completely underground, with only the entrance and possibly some windows exposed at ground level. The exposed wall allows for the use of larger windows and doors, which can be designed to maximize passive solar heating and natural ventilation. The slope can help with natural drainage, but waterproofing is still essential. This allows for more natural light and easier access compared to completely underground homes, while still offering substantial insulation benefits from the earth on the other three sides. These homes are constructed into the side of a hill or slope, with one side (usually the front) exposed. Bermed design can be particularly effective in colder climates, where the earth can provide substantial insulation, and the exposed walls and roof can be designed for maximum solar gain. This design allows for easier access and more natural light compared to completely underground homes, but it provides less insulation from the earth than the other types. The roof may be exposed or covered in earth as well. Bermed earth homesīermed earth homes are the most flexible type of home and are usually built at or slightly below ground level, with earth piled up against the exterior walls on one to three sides. Let’s break these down, so you can decide which is best for you. There are three standard types of earthen homes: Underground, in-hill, and bermed. They may sound intimidating, but earth shelters minimize your impact on the landscape while offering tons of practical advantages. Today, homes are usually either built into the side of a hill or buried completely underground and have concrete walls. They have an incredibly long history and were the primary housing style for most peoples around the world for thousands of years, including Native Americans. While they were once considered a niche home style, they have become increasingly popular, primarily starting in the 1970s during the environmental movement.īut what are earth homes? Where can you build them and how do you do it? Are they right for you? Whether you live in a house in Albuquerque, NM, or are looking to build a home in Reno, NV, read on for everything you need to know about earth homes.Īn earth home, also called an earthen home or earth shelter, is a structure that is either built from natural soil and other organic materials or built into the earth (above or below ground). They’re also remarkably efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly. Earth homes are the oldest type of house in the world, dating back to at least 15,000 BCE, and still house upwards of 700 million people around the world.
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