07-23-2006, 05:17 AM
Having visited one of these structures in New Mexico, I can agree that they are marvels of ingenious recycling of materials and energy efficiency. They provide a remarkably low-cost option for materials and have a very low long-term environmental impact compared to a standard home. These are more labor intensive to build, but the one I saw was mostly put together by the owners and their friends, with contractors only called in for some specialty work.
Just two concerns, though. First, the differential of sunny days between New Mexico and Mountain View could make the solar components dicey. Of course, the inhabitants of such a home could well be of a mindset to get by on far less electricity than average. Second, the heavy rainfall could cause dampness issues if the embanked portion is not very tightly sealed. That said, I applaud whoever had the courage to try something that is new to Hawaii and has so much potential.
Aloha,
Jerry
Just two concerns, though. First, the differential of sunny days between New Mexico and Mountain View could make the solar components dicey. Of course, the inhabitants of such a home could well be of a mindset to get by on far less electricity than average. Second, the heavy rainfall could cause dampness issues if the embanked portion is not very tightly sealed. That said, I applaud whoever had the courage to try something that is new to Hawaii and has so much potential.
Aloha,
Jerry