Earth Sheltered Homes
Earth-sheltered homes are one of those creations by man, which
brings him closer to nature. Unlike the normal traditional houses
that are built on the ground, these earth-sheltered homes are
built using the shelter of the ground.
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Earth Sheltered Home |
The aim of building this sort of home is to cut down on the humidity
and heat (plus security) and for this reason, the homes are built
"into the air". This makes them cut away from the normal
movements of the sun and the ground.
This is what prevents the excess heat and humidity in the house
and keeps the house cool in the heat. In this concept, the ground
is used like an insulating layer and this protects the house from
harsh weather conditions like rain, wind, heat and humidity.
Windows to the Soul ...
The construction of these earth sheltered homes can be done according
to the shape of the area to be used and then the required modifications
can be made according to the needs and choices of the owner. The
designs of these homes are very organic and there is a lot of
engineering expertise required for the construction of the same.
The early earth houses which were initially built lacked windows.
Modern day earth-sheltered homes though have windows as well as
any other facility that the people living there might require.
Earth Sheltered House
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The basic idea behind the construction
of such a house is that they are built with the idea of
being environmentally friendly and each of these homes are
built entirely different from each other, according to the
possible layouts.
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Some of the major benefits of these earth sheltered homes are
that they are naturally insulating. This makes it easier for the
residents to enjoy a cool atmosphere. The structure of the house
is such that it keeps the earth sheltered homes cool in summers
but keeps the house cozy and warm in the winters.
Other major benefits are that they can even safeguard the homes
from earthquakes as well as windstorms. Damage is averted to a
substantial level with these homes. The construction is such that
it protects the inside of the homes by maintaining oxygen-nitrogen
balance. These homes can be easily made in hilly areas. There
is more green space available due to this type of construction
of the house.
These homes are also safe from fire and are well protected in
terms of natural calamities. Many earth-sheltered homes are also
defended against intruders since there are usually only one or
two entry and exit points to guard.
Image courtesy Lyle Ratzlaff who spent 18 years
building his underground home. See
more info here.
Old Pros and Convicts ...
As everything has its pros and cons, earth sheltered homes also
do. The interior decoration of these homes can be a slight issue
due to the construction. There are issues one might have to face
while placing the furniture as well as huge paintings.
Earth sheltered homes are bound to have dark spaces inside and
for this reason, lots of lighting is essential. Some of this can
be addressed by building the earth-sheltered home facing south
which means the windows receive sunlight all year long.
Some homebuilders put reflective mirrors on top to bring light
(and perhaps a beautiful view) into the house. Solar panels, wind
turbines and geothermal energy can provide electricity to the
earth-sheltered home for inside lighting and electrical usage.
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Earth Berm Home Design
Earth Sheltered Homes
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Conclusive Conclusion
Earth-sheltered homes are one of the greenest housing designs
that combines Mother Nature with an eco-friendly building materials
and lifestyle.
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