Adobe Homes for All Climates: Simple, Affordable, and Earthquake-Resistant Natural Building Techniques by Lisa Schroder, Vince Ogletree

The lay-up of adobe bricks is an easy, forgiving way to achieve a solid masonry-wall system. Contrary to stereotypes, adobe is perfectly adaptable for use in cold, wet climates as well as hot and dry ones, and for areas prone to earthquakes. With its efficient use of energy, natural resources for construction, and minimal effort for long-term maintenance, it’s clear that the humble adobe brick is an ideal option for constructing eco-friendly structures throughout the world.

The book is ideal both for first-time do-it-yourselfers and for experienced adobe builders seeking to improve their craft. Drawing on the experience of more than fifty major adobe projects since 1993, Adobe Homes for All Climates describes Adobe Building Systems’ patented reinforcement and scaffolding systems, showing readers how to construct adobe homes more easily and safely, and with superior strength, durability, structural integrity, and aesthetic appeal, as compared to earthen homes of the past.

All aspects of adobe construction are covered, including making and laying adobe bricks, installing lintels and arches, conduits and pipes, doors and windows, top plates and bond beams, ideal wall dimensions, adobe finishes, and other adobe construction components, such as the inexpensive use of scaffolding. These methods will produce a premium product that will meet and often exceed inspection standards.

Equipped with this manual, you will be able to obtain a building permit, make adobe bricks swiftly, and confidently lay them up. You will be able to beautifully finish your adobe walls with earth plasters creating stunning colors and outstanding light effects and create a beautiful, energy-efficient home that will last for generations to come.

Lisa Morey Schroder is a Professional Engineer with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering and Management as well as a diploma in Architectural Design. She has been involved in the design and planning stages of dozens of adobe homes and has years of hands-on experience in all aspects of adobe construction. Schroder lives with her husband and two children near Denver, Colorado, and offers services under Colorado Earth LLC.

Vince Ogletree founded Earth Building Consultants & Contractors, Ltd., in Auckland, New Zealand. Before his untimely death in 2005, he had twenty-three years of building experience including twelve years working with earthen and adobe methods. Vince dedicated himself to working on this manual in the last year of his life so that others could benefit from his knowledge and expertise in adobe building and share in his passion for earthen building and in his vision for environmentally conscious construction.