Building Earth Sheltered Homes: Layout Plans
Underground houses are basically homes that are partially or fully built underground or within the rocky terrain of hillocks so that you can see only some chimneys and/or windows, doors while the entire portion of the house stays under secure, well almost secure, environment. They have their own pros and cons in terms of energy saving etc.
If you are planning to build an earth-sheltered home, you need to select a place where ground water level is not very high otherwise, you will see yourself constantly repairing the walls and ceilings to stop water from seeping in. Thus, the first step is to locate a place that has very low ground water level.
Depending upon your intention of saving energy or living near nature, design the house plan. It should reflect your intentions. Another point is to consider that the entire house is sealed so that no external element gets in due to the gravity. Major elements to consider are dust and water.
Among other points to be considered is proper ventilation so that you breathe in fresh air. Improper ventilation will not help even if you have AC installed in the house. Another advantage to take is the solar energy. Get the house designed in a fashion that it obtains maximum solar energy so that it heats up the house, especially the ground. This can be achieved using some ducts and exhaust fans.
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