As green building and conservation are becoming vastly more importance, the need has emerged for an authoritative and technical guide to the use of earth in building. Earth presents an excellent material for new low-energy building, and it often needs to be used in the repair and conservaiton of existing buildings, yet the building industry has little knowledge of the physical and behavioural characteristics of earth as a construction material.This clear and lucid guide outlines the effective use of earth in free-standing buildings and in load-bearing walls. It explains how to use it and also shows how to comply to building regulations. It sets out both traditional and modern building techniques. It shows how to conserve and repair, and details the most common faults and defects such as dampness, and indicates how to make a sound and accurate diagnosis.Professionals such as architects, builders, surveyors and conservation officers should find this a good reference. It is also a methodically presented text for students and an authoritative guide for self-builders.Key features:* Uniquely practical guide to the use of earth in UK building* Covers both new building and conservation* Authoritative and detailed. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.