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Building materials are varied and have different benefits. From an environmental perspective, many structures are looking to traditional techniques from the past to maximize durability, economy, and charm. Pneumatically impacted stabilized earth (PISE) is a “nearly perfect building material” (Dwell, 2009) when considering the benefits compared to more mainstream building techniques. PISE (pronounced “pee-zay”), is a more modern combination of a classic building material and a traditional French construction technique, dirt and rammed earth, respectively. This technique is related to adobe in the material and look, which never needs painting and adds instant old-world charm to even the newest construction.
PISE was relatively recently developed by builder David Easton. The building of PISE dwellings take specialized machinery and expertise. The wall material is a mix of earth, cement and water. The mixture is sprayed onto a reinforced steel (rebar), earthquake-ready skeleton inside of a removable mold. Layer by layer, the earthen material is built up, in increments 18-24 inches thick, and two to three feet high. The mixture firms and is smoothed and sanded to eliminate any imperfections to create a solid, supportive surface.
Furthermore, if you are environmentally, or health conscious, the benefits and superiority of this technique cannot be beat. The benefits of PISE are similar to the benefits seen from building with other earth materials, which include but are not limited to:
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Efficiency of resources
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Energy efficient (energy reductions of 80%+)
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Natural Thermal regulations (in most climates, PISE homes do not need A/C, or CFC-containing insulation)
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Increased safety of occupants
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More durable building (minimal maintenance and the usable life is measured in 100s of years)
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Chemical-free pest (such as termites) resistant
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Fire resistant without retardants
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Less forestry pressure (leaves important habitats intact)
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Eliminates a large percentage of construction waste
The style provided by an earthen home is very special as well. With warm tones and unpainted, lightly textured walls, South American influences are seen around every turn. Also common in these types of buildings, are adobe-style fireplaces and alcoves. Exposed wood trim and ceilings, like those seen in the home on High school Road in Sebastopol, California compliment the warmth of the building materials and landscape.
For more information and further reading reference the sites below:
https://geopolymerhouses.wordpress.com/2011/06/19/pneumatically-impacted-stabilized-earth-pise/
http://www.solaripedia.com/713/6/material.html
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