[Cob] Building in the Tropics

[Gustavo Cabrera]

Hi, Group:

I don't think I've ever made any contribution to the list as I've not had 
anything to contribute. I do thank those that do and have learned a lot, 
especially those who run this list.

My name is Gus and I am an experienced contractor, mostly in renovations and 
rehabilitation of property.  I own a beachfront lot on the Pacific side of 
Nicaragua near a small town called San Juan del Sur.  There are only 2 
seasons, dry and wet with temperatures averaging 78 deg. F. during the wet 
season and 81 deg. F during the dry season.  Obviously there is no heating 
problem, but cooling cob could be an issue.  I plan on building from 800 to 
1200 sf.  A couple of questions:
     1.  Does anyone have knowledge of building in the tropics or possibly 
Southern Florida?
     2.  Any recommendations as to wall thickness or other structural 
considerations?
     3.  Has anyone lived in a similar climate and could you expound on your 
experience?

I have read and studied both Ianto Evans' and Becky Bee's books.  I've also 
ordered the latest edition of Ianto Evans' book.

I hope to build for myself and maybe teach the locals and others about cob.

Thanks,
Gus Cabrera