03-08-2008, 07:20 AM
Stillhope, there are many non-wood constructions, including SIP systems like Castleblock.... Your question would really depend upon which system you chose....
Simple things like using steel studs on non-support walls are fairly comparable in price with treated lumber.. but you still need to figure you support walls.... An aluminum framed SIP in todays market would be much more (however in the 70's there were a few built in Puna...when aluminum was very competitive...)
Earth homes, papercrete, Rasta Block, concrete bock (hollow tile), Gunite, brick... all of these are non-wood construction, all have different price points, ease of construction, & suitablitiy to this climate...
Rob is one to get ahold of on a professional level if you would like price quotes on some of these methods (he would probably need to know more on what you are looking to build & spend....)
David M is one of the forum members that has used the Casleblock SIP on slab, we are up-grading & re-doing a 70's aluminum framed SIP on slab.
Simple things like using steel studs on non-support walls are fairly comparable in price with treated lumber.. but you still need to figure you support walls.... An aluminum framed SIP in todays market would be much more (however in the 70's there were a few built in Puna...when aluminum was very competitive...)
Earth homes, papercrete, Rasta Block, concrete bock (hollow tile), Gunite, brick... all of these are non-wood construction, all have different price points, ease of construction, & suitablitiy to this climate...
Rob is one to get ahold of on a professional level if you would like price quotes on some of these methods (he would probably need to know more on what you are looking to build & spend....)
David M is one of the forum members that has used the Casleblock SIP on slab, we are up-grading & re-doing a 70's aluminum framed SIP on slab.