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WHAT IS IT?
WHAT IS IT?
Earth (a mixture of gravel, sand, silt and clay) is extracted from the ground and poured into plywood formwork layer by layer. Each layer is compressed by a backfill tamper, and the formwork can be removed after curing to reveal a Rammed Earth Wall.
Earth can be dug locally, reducing transport requirements and embodied carbon. Rammed Earth can be reinforced with rebar, bamboo or plant fibres, and can be compacted into curved forms with wide spans, the only limitation being the formwork.
MATERIAL LIFE CYCLE
KEY INFORMATION:
300mm wall thickness at a minimum¹
Provides excellent thermal mass but limited insulation²
Its high compressive strength can withstand multi-storey construction
More complex usage of Rammed Earth might require reinforcements and frames
It requires some protection from rain and long-term exposure to moisture
It is a breathable material
Colour and Texture depends on the aggregates used in its formation
Highly fire resistant due to high density
Low maintenance and long lifespan (1000+ years)
Built Examples using Rammed Earth
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