In an era where going “green” is of expanding interest and necessity, society is embracing more methods of preserving the earth. One of these ways is through green building, a method of construction that uses energy-conserving techniques. These structures can consist of components, such as solar panels, for the conservation of electricity and heat, or they may be earth homes, also known as underground or earth-sheltered homes.
Earth homes are typically built with steel and concrete, and covered with earth on the top, back, and sides. This type of construction is an enormous electricity saver, and in fact, many require no heat or air conditioning, since the earth maintains a nearly unwavering temperature in the home year round. An added benefit is that earth homes are virtually disaster proof in tornadoes, hurricanes, and even structural fires.
A popular misconception is that earth homes are dark inside, due to the reduced number of windows; however, structures that face the southern direction tend to allow more sunlight in, making the interior nearly as bright as a traditionally built home's interior, especially if the windows are larger in size.
Another fear is that these homes are leaky or damp inside, but this, also, is not the case. The structures are heavily waterproofed, many times with bituthene, a rubberized type of waterproofing, which expands with water, fully protecting the structure's interior from dampness.
Though some earth homes are built with flat roofs, many are dome shaped and can even be two story homes. They are environmentally friendly, insect free, virtually maintenance free, and they have up to 90% less pollutants and allergens inside than a traditional home. Many are constructed in such a traditional manner that they are difficult to distinguish as an earth home, and the cost of construction is usually about the same as a traditional home.
Though building permits are easily obtained, financing can sometimes be tricky, as appraisers in some areas are still unfamiliar with earth homes. Additionally, some insurance companies remain cautious; however, those who do provide coverage on the structures say that the energy-efficiency and safety aspects of earth homes are a money saver when it comes to insurance.
Companies like Formworks Building, Davis Caves, and Earth Sheltered Technology, Inc. are providers of earth home construction systems and detail the home types and process, complete with photos, on their websites.