Cob: Natural Building in Thailand

[Darel Henman]

Janell,
   tell us about the materials and mixtures you've been using.  Also we
would like to have data on how your finished buildings are performing.  
For example building size, man hours to supply, mix, apply material, 
the humidity outside the structure and inside, as well as inside and
outside temperature.  What are  you doing for cooling or de-humidifying
the air?  This is information that would be very helpful to many of
us.    You are most welcome to supply it to us.  You've have had at
least a years worth of time to gather this information.   

   If rains a lot in Thailand, how are the earthen walls holding up?  
Did you do anything to make it more resistant to water damage?   What
material did you use for the roof structure and topping?

   How did you handle sewage?  
   How do you go about getting drinking water?
   What did you use the paint for?   And from what materials is it made?

Your kindly supplying of this information would be extremely appreciated
by all.   
Many of us are waiting patiently for your data and actual information. 
Thanks again.


janell kapoor wrote:
> NATURAL BUILDING IN THAILAND
> November 2002 - February 2003
> 
> ........................ snipped
>
> 
> REGISTRATION:
> ............. a non-refundable deposit of $150 per project, in the form of a POSTAL money order
> only, signed to 'Janell Kapoor.'

Why non-refundable and why made out to a private individual?


> The "Mun yuen" community is a unique group of villagers who are creating a self-reliant sustainable
> community in Northeastern Thailand. 

I would venture a guess, that they were already self-reliant and had a
mostly sustainable community and had been for generations.   Why do they
now have to import people who have to pay to work at prices that could
buy houses in Thailand's country side?  This is non sustainable.   You
said that a religious organization/corporation is benefiting from this
incoming flow of volunteer funds and free labor, right?

> In total we will build 1 main meeting hall, 21 houses,
> 2 saunas

>You will need to bring your own tent. 
But, the workers will stay in the tents right?
Would you recommend that one bring mosquitoe and bug nets also to keep
the insects away?  Or is that not a problem in the mountain region at
high altitudes?

Also please tell us about the sauna design and materials.  Thanks.


> and 1 storage building for rice.
For this to, we would appreciate the information about the materials,
mix, blend, and design.  
We look forward to your sharing of this valuable information and
historical data on actually built structures you must have complete last
year and even from before.   
Regards,
  Darel