Reviewing the Issue of “Acceptability” of Earthen Structures in Housing

Abstract

Three projects using earthen structures were presented as case studies during the ISES 2007, to reinforce the issue of “acceptability” as critical to the success of promotion of earthen structures in housing. This paper, presented in the ISES 2018, revisits the three projects after 11 years to examine the performance of the construction technologies. This paper takes a close look at how the users of the structures perceive the technologies they have been using. The perception is supported by evidence of how the structures have performed overall including whether and how repairs, additions and alterations have been made. Field visits by the author to two of the case studies and photographic evidence from one indicate that the technology used in the construction of the structures has performed satisfactorily and the building systems are appreciated by the users. Roofing solutions have not performed as expected; however, the use of earth in construction has been very successful and the earthen systems have performed to potential. The performance of the structures and the construction systems, make the case for promotion of earthen constructions in housing projects. Constructing in earth outweighs the social and environmental benefits when compared with the aspirational brick and RCC house.