Performance evaluation of three wall types used in earth sheltered housing
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Date
1995
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Publisher
University of New Brunswick
Abstract
The main purpose of this report is to investigate some of the problems experienced by earth sheltered houses. The first section of the report discusses in detail these problems. The problems include structural damage; leaks and moisture diffusivity; excessive humidity; and passive solar energy compatibility. A layout is chosen and three proposals are used to examine some of these problems in detail. The proposals represent cross sections of structural walls. They show the components of the building envelope. The three proposals considered are cast-in-place reinforced concrete, concrete block masonry, and permanent wood foundations. Each one is evaluated in terms of its resistance to air and moisture flow; its insulating efficiency and passive solar compatibility; and its level of resource usage during construction. The report shows that there is significant opportunity for further study.