Cob, a handy technique for a new self-builder

Abstract

Despite the ease of implementation, which qualified this technique as appropriate for self-construction, there were three other priorities that cob also allowed and were part of the starting requirements of the owners. First of all, earth was a safe material with a high degree of breathabilitythe ability to regulate humidity and capture pollutants in the indoor environment. Secondly, cob also generated high comfort passive spaces, with high thermal inertia, very suitable for the Mediterranean bioclimatic architecture (Serra, R. & Coch, H. 1995). Finally, it exhibited optimum acoustic and insulation properties, as an absorbent. Finally, cob maximizes the use of local materials as the earth comes mostly from the same excavation and the straw is readily available in the rural area.