Rules Governing Building With Earth: 1. - IND-2008 0149 D - EN - 20080519 - Projet

1.
------IND- 2008 0149 D-- EN- ------ 20080519 ---

--- PROJET
The German Association for Building with Earth [Dachverband Lehm e.V.] (Eds.)
Rules governing building with
earth
Definitions, building materials and components
3rd revised edition
Draft, November 2007
A project by the German Association for Building with Earth, Weimar
(Eds.),
supported by funding from the Federal Foundation for the Environment
(DBU).
Authors
Franz Volhard
Ulrich Röhlen
With the collaboration of
Dr.Ing. Christof Ziegert
Working group
Prof. Dr.Ing. Klaus Dierks
Stephan Jörchel
Ulrich Röhlen
Dr.Ing. Horst Schroeder
Franz Volhard
Dr.Ing. Christof Ziegert
The information, data, results and so on contained in this book were
compiled with the cooperation of the experts in the field in accordance with
the state of the art and scrutinised with the utmost care by the authors, the
editorial committee and the publishing company. Nevertheless, errors
cannot be completely ruled out. For that reason, no responsibility can be
accepted for any inaccuracies in content.
The rules governing building with earth were incorporated into the Berlin
Institute for Structural Engineering’s specimen list of technical regulations
on 26 February 2008, thereby becoming recommended for implementation
within building inspection in Germany’s constituent Länder.
The obligations arising from Directive 98/34/EC of the European
Parliament and of the Council of 22 June 1998 laying down a procedure for
the provision of information in the field of technical standards and
regulations and of rules on Information Society services (OJ L 204 p. 37),
most recently amended by Directive 98/48/EC of the European Parliament
and of the Council of 20 July 1998 (OJ L 217, p. 18), have been met.
Editorial information
The German Association for Building with Earth, Weimar (Eds.)
Rules governing building with earth
Authors: Franz Volhard, Ulrich Röhlen
With the collaboration of: Christof Ziegert
Produced: November 2007
CIP short title entry …
This document is protected by copyright. Any turning to account of the
work without the consent of the publishers is not permitted and is
punishable by law. This applies in particular to reproductions, translations,
microfilming and processing in electronic systems.
First published May 1999
2nd revised edition May 2002
3rd revised edition February 2008
Publishers: Vieweg & Sohn
We wish to thank the following for their collaboration:
Contributions through subjectmatter expertise and
discussion (editorial committee)
Eckhard Beuchel, Lehmbau Beuchel, Crimmitschau
Jörg Depta, LehmBauWerk GbR, Berlin
Manfred Drach, Ingenieurbüro Drach, Berlin
Gerhard Forg, Maxit Deutschland GmbH, Breisach
Irmela Fromme, BAUFACHFRAU Berlin e.V.
Philipp Liebig, Ziegelwerk Grün, Reinheim
Heiner Lippe, architect, Hanover
Veit Mach, MACH 2 architects, ReichshofDenklingen
Roland Meingast, Natur&Lehmbaustoffe GmbH, Tattendorf (Austria)
Jörg Meyer, conluto Bauen mit Lehm, BlombergGroßenmarpe
Professor of Civil Engineering Gernot Minke, Building Research Institute of
the University of Kassel
Richard Rath, graduate civil engineer, Berlin
Georgios Schade, Lehmbautechnik Georgios Schade, Seelze/Letter
Thilo Schneider, LehmBaustoffe Thilo Schneider, Kleinfahner
Hannah Schreckenbach, architect, Magdeburg
Roderich Seefried, LebensRaum, WaldRothenlachen.
Contents
CONTENTS
FOREWORD X
FOREWORD TO 2ND EDITION XII
FOREWORD TO 3ND REVISED EDITION XII
1. GENERAL 1
1.1 Area of application 1
1.2 Definition 1
1.3 General requirements 1
1.3.1 Planning of construction 1
1.3.2 Execution of construction 1
1.3.3 Manufacturers 2
2. BUILDING EARTH 3
2.1 Definitions 3
2.2 Types of earth and earth deposits 3
2.3 Extraction of building earth 4
2.3.1 Dug earth 4
2.3.2 Dry earth and powdered clay 4
2.3.3 Recycled earth 4
2.4 Inspection of building earth 5
2.4.1 General 5
2.4.2 Requirements 5
2.4.3 Basic tests 5
2.4.4 Laboratory tests 8
Sampling 8
Determining the binding strength (binding strength test) 8
Determination of plasticity 9
Determination of the mineral framework (grain size distribution pursuant to
DIN 18123) 10
Annex 1 to Chapter 2. Building earth 10
Binding strength test, method of testing 10
I
3. EARTHEN BUILDING MATERIALS 14
3.1 General 14
3.1.1 Definitions 14
3.1.2 Labelling of earthen building materials (declaration) 14
3.1.3 Composition and preparation of earthen building materials
14
3.1.4 Classification of building materials 15
3.1.5 Abbreviations 15
3.1.6 Use of earthen building materials 16
3.1.7 Reuse, recycling and disposal of earthen building materials
17
3.2 Rammed earth (STL) 17
3.2.1 Definition 17
3.2.2 Use 17
3.2.3 Composition 17
Building earth 17
Additives 17
3.2.4 Preparation 18
3.2.5 Testing 18
Particle density 18
Compressive strength 18
Measure of shrinkage 19
3.2.6 Labelling 19
3.3 Cob (WL) 19
3.3.1 Definition 19
3.3.2 Use 20
Building earth 20
Additives 20
3.3.5 Testing 20
Particle density 20
3.3.6 Labelling 21
3.4 Fibrous clay, clay straw (FL, SL) 21
3.4.1 Definition 21
3.4.2 Use 21
II
Contents
Building earth 21
Additives 22
3.4.5 Testing 22
Particle density 22
Shrinkage, suitability 22
3.4.6 Labelling 23
3.5 Light clay (LL) 23
3.5.1 Definition 23
3.5.2 Use 23
Building earth 24
Lightweight additives 24
Mixing ratios 24
3.5.5 Testing 25
Particle density 25
Consistency of the slurry 25
Sturdiness 26
3.5.6 Labelling 26
3.6 Earth fillings (LT) 26
3.6.1 Definition 26
3.6.2 Use 26
3.6.5 Testing 27
Particle density 27
3.6.6 Labelling 27
3.7 Earth blocks (LS) 27
3.7.1 Definitions 27
3.7.2 Use 28
3.7.3 Composition and production 29
3.7.4 Suitability 30
3.7.5 Testing 30
Format 30
Particle density 30
3.7.6 Labelling 31
III
3.8 Clay panels (LP) 32
3.8.1 Definition 32
3.8.2 Use 32
3.8.3 Composition and manufacture 32
3.8.4 Testing 33
Particle density 33
3.8.5 Labelling 33
3.9 Earth mortars 33
3.9.1 Definition 33
3.9.2 Use 33
General 34
Building site mortars 34
Factory materials mortars 35
Factorysupplied mortars 35
Recycled mortars 35
3.9.5 Requirements 35
3.9.6 Testing 36
Sampling 36
Particle density (hardened mortar) 36
Measure of shrinkage 36
Shrinkage (building site sample) 36
3.9.7 Labelling 36
4. COMPONENTS BUILT WITH EARTH 38
4.1 Loadbearing walls 38
4.1.1 General 38
Definition 38
Works management, special requirements 38
Building period 38
Protection against weather during the execution of the building work39
4.1.2 Construction 39
Moistureproofing 39
Requirements 39
Reinforcement 40
Anchoring of the walls 40
IV
Contents
Supports and openings 40
4.1.3 Execution of earth block walls 44
Building material 44
Fabrication 44
4.1.4 Execution of rammed earth walls 45
Fabrication 45
Drying 45
Measures to make plaster adhere 45
4.1.4 Execution of cob walls 45
Fabrication 45
Drying 46
4.1.6 Repair of loadbearing earth walls 46
4.2 Vaulting 46
Definition 46
Building materials 46
Planning and works management 46
Building period 46
Protection against weather during the execution of the building work47
proof of stability 47
Construction 47
Moistureproofing 47
Execution 47
4.3 Nonloadbearing walls and infill 47
4.3.1 Infill of framed walls 48
Definition 48
Building period 48
Protection against weather during execution of the building work 48
Drying 48
Wattle and daub 48
Strutting with daub 49
Rolled struts (including cob) 49
Light clay 49
Masonry infill 49
4.3.2 Nonloadbearing rammed earth walls 50
Construction 50
4.3.3 Nonloadbearing masonry 50
V
Construction 50
Execution 51
4.3.4 Light clay walls in damp installation 51
Definition 51
Building period 51
Construction 51
Execution 52
Drying 52
Attachments 53
Testing 53
4.3.5 Clay panel walls 53
Definition 53
Construction 53
Execution 54
4.3.6 Stacked earth walls 54
Definition 54
Execution 54
Cladding 54
4.3.7 Extruded walls 54
Definition 54
Construction 55
Execution 55
Drying 55
Further processing 55
Testing 55
4.3.8 Plastered insulating boards 56
Definition 56
Construction 56
Execution 56
4.4 Joist ceilings 57
Definition 57
4.4.1 Strut ceilings 57
Definition 57
VI
Contents
Construction 57
Execution 57
Drying 58
4.4.2 Inserted ceilings 58
Definition 58
Construction 59
Execution 59
Drying 59
4.4.3 Flooring 59
Definition 59
Construction 59
4.4.4 Ceilings with clay panels 60
Definition 60
Construction 60
Execution 60
4.4.5 Infill of roof slopes 60
4.5 Plastering/rendering 61
4.5.1 General 61
Uses 61
Definitions 61
Guidelines for planning 61
Requirements 62
Execution 62
4.5.2 Earthen plastering/rendering 63
Suitability 63
Requirements 64
Plaster mortars/rendering 64
Plastering/rendering systems 64
Application and surface treatment 65
Drying 66
Further treatment 66
Repair and renovation 67
4.5.3 Other plastering/rendering on earthen bases. 67
Plaster mortars/rendering 67
VII
Plastering/rendering systems 67
Execution 67
4.5.4 Special features of exterior rendering for visible latticework
68
Loading 68
Plastering/rendering systems for framework render/plaster 69
4.6 Rammed earth floors 69
4.7 Facings in dry construction 70
Definition 70
Construction 70
4.8 Other components 71
4.8.1 Basement masonry walls and skirting 71
Definitions 71
Preclusion 71
5. SPECIFICATIONS FOR BUILDING MATERIALS
AND COMPONENTS 72
5.1 Particle density 72
5.2 Strength 72
5.2.1 Compressive strength 72
5.3 Heat 74
5.3.1 Thermal insulation 74
5.3.2 Heat retention 75
5.4 Moisture 76
5.4.1 Susceptibility to water and moisture 76
5.4.2 Diffusion of vapour 76
5.4.3 Moisture conductivity 76
5.4.4 Practical moisture content 77
5.4.5 Sorption 77
5.4.6 Drying 77
5.5 Fire behaviour 78
5.5.1 Fire behaviour of earthen building materials 78
5.5.2 Fire behaviour of components built with earth 79
5.6 Noiseinsulating characteristics 81
5.6.1 Dampening of airborne noise by walls 81
VIII
Contents
5.6.2 Noiseinsulating characteristics of wood joist ceilings 81
5.7 Windproofness 82
5.8 Durability 82
6. TERMS OF CONTRACT FOR EARTHEN
BUILDING SERVICES 83
7. STANDARDS 85
7.1 Standards cited 85
7.2 Former standards on building with earth 86
8. KEYWORD INDEX 88
PROJECT PARTICIPANTS 103
Rules governing building with earth 103
Authors 103
With the collaboration of 103
Working group 103
Project management 103
Contributors to previous editions 104
Working group 104
Subjectmatter expertise and advice 104
Contributions to discussions 104
IX
FOREWORD
Building with earth has a long history in Europe and in Germany. In framed
building and in massive loadbearing, earth was formerly one of the
principal building materials but it has been superseded by modern
industrial building materials. Most recently, in the postwar period of the
20th century, building with earth was seen to offer the chance to counter the
shortage of fired, loadbearing building materials, particularly in rural areas.
Since the beginning of the 1980s, earth has begun to be used again as a
building material in Germany. A new interest has arisen and the
possibilities of new uses and products are being sought. Earthen building
materials are also of high value environmentally. The raw material can be
obtained locally in an environmentally sound way. Processing into a
building material does not require much energy to be used. Appropriately
constructed, earthen building materials can be reused. Their disposal is
unproblematic. Properly employed, earthen building materials are tried and
tested and assuredly safe from a human health point of view. Building with
earth allows for the integration of a large proportion of personal
contribution. However, the characteristics of earthen building materials also
include susceptibility to water and, compared to comparable building
products, lesser sturdiness. For a large range of building tasks, however,
the properties of earthen building materials are entirely satisfactory. They
can be suitably optimised for their use without much expenditure of energy.
Some simple structural measures also make it possible to produce load
bearing components out of earthen building materials.
The establishment of a consolidated collection of rules and the
comprehensive documentation of known techniques was first undertaken in
the Order on building with earth of 1944. The said Order on structures built
with earth was adopted for building inspection purposes in 1951 as
DIN 18951. Further prestandards and draft standards continued to be
produced up until 1956 but were not adopted. In 1971 all the standards
were withdrawn on the grounds of being outdated. However, according to
a 1982 opinion issued by the Hessian Minister of the Interior, they were to
be regarded, along with more recent decrees by the Minister with a similar
content – in the absence of successor legislation – as “stateoftheart” for
building inspection purposes for the approval of structures built with earth,
X
Foreword
with the result that no documentary proofs need be furnished in individual
cases for the fitness for purpose of those methods of building with earth
covered by the old standards.
However, these old standards are only able to correspond to an
unsatisfactory degree to the manifold and sometimes new applications for
earthen building materials and the multitude of new earthen building
materials. The standards primarily regulated loadbearing earthen
constructions, whereas earthen building materials are nowadays primarily
used for nonloadbearing purposes. In addition, the various editions of the
standards were no longer coordinated and have to be viewed, nowadays,
as obsolete in large parts, although they remain highly useful because of
the knowledge they contain.
The nonprofitmaking German Association for Building with Earth, which
had been founded by experts, architects, businessmen, handicraft
companies and representatives of institutions in 1992, set itself the urgent
task of drawing up a new regulatory framework. The aim was to
incorporate the old standards, insofar as they were viable, with historical
experience being combined with more recently acquired knowledge from
practice in building over recent years. Supported by the Federal
Foundation for the Environment (DBU), a first draft was produced in 1997
by a project group within the Association, finetuned over numerous
technical discussions with invited participants and publicly presented at
LEHM 97 [an international conference on building with earth] in Viersen,
Germany. The results of the discussion and additional written comments
and suggestions were incorporated. The present Rules governing building
with earth thus represent not only the state of the art but also the
consensus of the experts in the field of building with earth. In so doing,
they go beyond serving to protect consumers and help to prevent failures
and disappointments. Another, and in fact the primary, aim of the project
was to facilitate a new and uptodate regulation of building inspections.
All earthen building materials and components that are deemed to be
currently in need of regulation have been included, whereas applications
that are currently subsidiary, such as earth shingling, have not been
included, reference instead being made to specialist literature or the old
standards.
XI
FOREWORD TO 2ND EDITION
The German Association for Building with Earth’s Rules on building with
earth have had great resonance since they were first published.
They were incorporated into the Berlin Institute for Structural Engineering’s
specimen list of technical building regulations in 1998, thereby becoming
recommended for implementation within building inspection in Germany’s
constituent Länder. Eleven German Länder have since followed this
recommendation. In the other Länder, building with earth is an
“unregulated method of construction” for which authorisation must be
obtained for individual cases, reference being made to the specimen list
and its implementation in the other Länder. The former DIN standards on
building with earth ceased to be of significance once the Rules governing
building with earth came out. The application of the Rules governing
building with earth has thus far been limited to single and twostorey single
family properties containing up to two dwellings. For other applications it
has continued to be the case that documentary proofs of usability under
building law are required. The relevant standards apply, in the version
currently in force, in respect of the documentary proofs of fire protection,
soundproofing and thermal insulation. As far as thermal insulation is
concerned, the thermal conduction figures for earthen building materials in
DIN 41084 have latterly been updated in line with the Rules governing
building with earth.
This second edition has been adopted, aside from a few minor corrections,
unaltered.
April 2002 The German Association for Building with
Earth [Dachverband Lehm e.V.]
FOREWORD TO 3ND REVISED EDITION
In the course of 2006 and 2007 the Rules governing building with earth
were brought into line with recent experience and requirements. The
process of finding a consensus largely followed the procedure described
XII
Foreword
above for the first edition. The overhaul was carried out by the German
Association for Building with Earth and supported by the Federal
Foundation for the Environment (DBU).
As in the past, the state of the art in the production and use of earthen
building materials unstabilised by additional binders is described. There are
hardly any examples of use or experience with stabilised earthen building
materials in Germany, for which reason it seems unnecessary to regulate
this area. In other countries, on the other hand, building materials of such a
nature are stateoftheart and are thus covered by building regulations.
Coating materials (earth dyes, earth renders) are not covered, as a result
of the apparently limited need for regulation.
Modal verbs have been used as envisaged by the Association of German
Engineers (VDI), as follows:
Must/have to: provisions involving ‘must’ or ‘have to’ are fundamentally
binding.
‘Should’: provisions involving ‘should’ allow parties applying the provision
two options, namely either to comply or to explain why failure to comply is
justified in this particular case.
‘Can’: parties applying the provision can choose whether or not to comply
with the stipulation.
November 2007 The German Association for Building with
Earth [Dachverband Lehm e.V.]
XIII
1. General
1. GENERAL
1.1 Area of application
These Rules apply to prefabricated or locally produced earthen building
materials where the sole binding agent is earth. Stabilised earthen building
materials whose water solubility or sturdiness is altered by means of other
binding agents or the addition of chemically active substances are not
subject to these rules.
1.2 Definition
Building with earth means building using earthen building materials in
loadbearing and nonloadbearing applications.
1.3 General requirements
1.3.1 Planning of construction
In structures and components built with earth, weatherproofing and
structural moistureproofing must be ensured in a durable fashion. The
ability to dry and time to dry for earthen building materials installed in a
moist or wet condition must be ensured.
1.3.2 Execution of construction
The preparation of building materials and the execution of building work,
particularly in the case of selfexecution, must be directed by a skilled
worker experienced in building with earth. A person may be regarded as
meeting these specifications if he/she possesses the theoretical knowledge
of building with earth and has acquired a degree of experience in the
building of structures with earth such that he/she has mastered the
technical and working rules of building with earth. Special requirements
are laid down for the execution of loadbearing walls and vaults under
4.1.1.
1
Earthen components must be protected from the effects of the weather
during building.
Earthen building materials must be able to dry as quickly as possible.
1.3.3 Manufacturers
Earthen building materials may be produced onsite or prefabricated by
manufacturers. Selfmanufacture usually requires direction.
2
2. Building earth
2. BUILDING EARTH
2.1 Definitions
Earth is the product of the weathering of prehistoric rock found on a
particular site or transported there by natural processes. The earth that
occurs can very greatly regionally and locally. From a technical
construction point of view, earth is a natural mix of clay minerals with a
binding strength and silty, sandy to stony constituents that make up the
mineral framework.
Building earth is earth suitable for the manufacture of earthen building
materials.
The binding strength of a building earth depends on the nature and
proportion of clay minerals. Building earth is categorised according to its
binding strength as, for example, “thin” or “fat” and, from a given binding
strength, as “clay”.
The plasticity (shapability) of building earth also depends on the nature
and proportion of clay minerals.
2.2 Types of earth and earth deposits
Mountain earth or slope wash, resting on the rock from which it has
formed as a result of weathering, or on the slopes beneath. The mineral
framework primarily consists of angular rocky detritus of varying grain
sizes.
Boulder clay is a glacially deposited type of earth. The mineral framework
consists of rounded grains.
Marl is a boulder clay containing calcium carbonate.
Alluvium has been desludged from previous deposit sites by running
water and then deposited again in calm water. Alluvium is a sometimes
interfused with weak lenses of sand, gravel or rubble. It is also possible for
humus to be mixed in.
3
Loessial soil is derived from loess by means of the leaching of the lime
content therefrom. Loess is a windblown fine sand containing lime and
clay. Loessial soil has a very finegrained mineral framework and often a
low clay content.
2.3 Extraction of building earth
Building earth must be free of contaminants and harmful foreign matter.
Building earth should be stored such that it is protected from rain.
2.3.1 Dug earth
Dug earth is groundmoist earth extracted from soil that has had growth. It
must be extracted from a sufficient depth and be free of roots and all
humus fractions.
For mechanical preparation, building earth should be free of building rubble
and other impurities.
For manual preparation, dug earth should be dug to be as crumbly as
possible. To make it easier to work, the dug earth may first be weathered,
aged or dried.
2.3.2 Dry earth and powdered clay
Dry earth is dried, and where appropriate pulverised, dug earth.
Powdered clay is dried, pulverised clay. Powdered clay can also be used
to increase the binding strength of thin building earth.
2.3.3 Recycled earth
Recycled earth is made from demolition components of recycled, dry
comminuted earthen building materials.
Earth that is heavily salted, has traces of dry rot or is humified may not be
reused. It must be ensured that the earth is not polluted during removal
and storage.
4
2. Building earth
2.4 Inspection of building earth
2.4.1 General
The aim of inspecting building earth is to identify and denominate the
essential technical building characteristics in order to be able to assess
their suitability for the production of earthen building materials. However,
the characteristics of (prepared) earthen building materials cannot be
directly deduced from the characteristics of the building earth and are not
the object of building earth inspections.
The essential characteristics of building earth to be investigated are:
binding strength, plasticity,
mineral framework, distribution of grain sizes
other constituents (contaminants, humus).
2.4.2 Requirements
Inspections shall be carried out on building earth with which earthen
building materials are to be manufactured.
Building earth used to produce earthen building materials at the factory
shall be inspected for suitability by the manufacturer (inbound
inspection). The results of the earth inspection shall be documented,
specifying the inspection methods pursuant to 2.4.3 and 2.4.4. Sampling
and the inspection intervals selected must be suitable for detecting
possible differences in similar consignments, as well as within a single
consignment.
Building earth delivered to the building site for manufacture of earthen
building materials shall be inspected for suitability by the processor. The
process followed can be analogous to the above.
Building earth supplied as a product can be labelled with documentation of
the inspection results.
2.4.3 Basic tests
Basic tests serve to provide an oriented evaluation of the characteristics of
the earth. Execution requires experience. The test results shall be
5
confirmed by repetitions. If there are doubts about the suitability of the
earth, laboratory tests pursuant to 2.4.4 shall be could out.
Dug earth samples shall be taken from sufficient depth to avoid humus and
shall be labelled. For tests with groundmoist samples the earth must be
dry enough to enable it to be just rolled into a ball.
Ballforming test To asses the binding strength, the groundmoist earth is
shaped by hand into a number of balls of around 5 cm in diameter. Fat
earth sticks to the hands when being shaped, while excessively thin earth
is no longer capable of being shaped and easily falls apart after drying.
Balldrop test Balls shaped when groundmoist can be dropped, once
dried, onto a solid surface from a height of 80 cm. A ball made of fat earth
does not burst into pieces; one made of thin earth breaks into a few pieces,
while one made of very thin earth into many pieces that crumble apart
sandily at the point of impact.
Cutting test (cf. DIN 40221) When cutting a groundmoist sample with a
knife a shiny surface indicates fat earth or clay, while a dull surface
indicates silt with low binding strength.
Dry strength test (cf. DIN 40221) The resistance of a dried sample to
crumbling and pulverisation sheds light on the nature and magnitude of the
fines content. Building earth only breaks up after considerable pressure
from a finger into a number of pieces; a sample of fat earth cannot be
broken up by finger pressure.
Friction test (cf. DIN 40221) Clay earth feels soapy and sticks to the
fingers. It cannot be removed when dry without being washed off.
Determination of the mineral framework A differentiation is made in the
building earth, on the basis of the leading dimensions of the sand,
between:
coarse sand (above 0.2 mm and up to 2.0 mm),
fine sand (0.2 mm down to the point at which it is still just about
perceptible to the touch), and
silty (no longer perceptible to the touch).
0.2 mm is approximately equal to the size of the point of a pin. Earth of
mixed grain sizes is listed in order of fractions. For instance: silty to fine
sandy earth.
6
2. Building earth
The earth can be assessed in the groundmoist state by visual appearance
in the palm of the hand, but it is better to assess fluidified earth in a
porcelain dish. To precisely denominate the sample, laboratory tests
pursuant to 2.4.4 are required.
Smell test (cf. DIN 40221) The smell of humus in the damp sample
indicates the presence of organic constituents. Heating the damp sample
can make this particularly recognisable. Earth of this nature cannot be
used as building earth.
Determination of colour The colour of the earth indicates its chemical
composition. The colour of the groundmoist earth is characterised. Earth
colours range from grey to yellowbrown, earth brown, redbrown to red.
Darker colours can indicate the presence of humus fractions. The colour of
the earth is otherwise insignificant in terms of usability.
Determination of the lime content (cf. DIN 40221) Dripping diluted
hydrochloric acid (3 parts water to 1 part hydrochloric acid) onto the
sample results in a strong, enduring effervescence, a weak one or none at
all. A natural content of lime reduces the binding strength of the building
earth. This can be detected by means of the binding strength test pursuant
to 2.4.4.
7
2.4.4 Laboratory tests
Technical tests specific to the field of building with earth are available as
test methods. Geotechnical tests can be adapted to the purposes of
investigating building with earth and can mostly be applied in a simplified
form. There are correspondences between the technical classification
systems of geotechnical engineering and building with earth, but the
names of the building earths and types of soil have not, thus far, been
harmonised.
Laboratory tests are required where it is not possible to make a definitive
judgement on the basis of the basic tests or if the experience so to do is
lacking.
Sampling
The composition of earth often varies in its deposition sites. For that
reason, as many samples must be taken as are required to assess the
entire deposition site from which building earth is extracted.
The samples shall be labelled according to the site of extraction. Multiple
samples of 2 litres each from the same deposition site shall be numbered
and their distance and direction from the first sample and the depth shall
also be specified. No samples may be taken at a depth of less than 50 cm.
Samples must be free of organic matter.
Determining the binding strength (binding strength test)
The binding strength test pursuant to DIN V 18952 sheet 2 provides
immediate results on the technical suitability, from a building with earth
point of view, of the building earth for the various applications. The thinning
effect of any lime content present is also detected.
Brief description The resistance that plastic earth puts forward in the
tensile test is called binding strength. In order to determine the binding
strength, the earth is carefully prepared and brought to a defined test
consistency. A test body is then formed, which test body is then ruptured in
the test device. The binding strength is given in g/cm2 or N/mm2.
Earth with a binding strength below 50 g/cm2 cannot be further
differentiated through the binding strength test. In general, such earth is
8
2. Building earth
not suitable for use as building earth. The potential suitability of such earth
for specific purposes shall be tested in other, suitable ways.
For the exact method of testing see Annex 1 at the end of this chapter.
Table 21
Classification of building earth by binding strength
Designation Binding strength (c/cm2)
Very thin 50 – 80
Thin >80 – 110
Almost fat >110 – 200
Fat >200 – 280
Very fat >280 – 360
Clay >360
Note: 100g/cm2 = 1.0 N/cm2
Determination of plasticity
The standards DIN 4022, DIN 18122 and DIN 18196 that have been
introduced for earthmoving and soil engineering can be applied for
investigating and denominating building earth.
The plastic characteristics of soils are differentiated on the basis of their
water content at the liquid limit wL:
slight plasticity < 35%
medium plasticity 3550%
pronounced plasticity > 50%.
The plasticity index, as the difference of the water content at the liquid
limit wLand the plastic limit wP, makes it possible to differentiate by
physical soil behaviour between clay and silt:
Plasticity number IP = wLwP
9
Clay: IP ≥ 7%
and
IP ≥ 0.73 (wL20)%
Silt: IP < 4%
and
IP < 0.73 (wL20)%
The plasticity is dependent on the binding strength.
Determination of the mineral framework (grain size
distribution pursuant to DIN 18123)
The mineral framework of building earth can be determined in more detail
pursuant to DIN 18123 (Soil, Determination of grainsize distribution) by
sieving for the wet separation of fines and illustrated via a grain size
distribution line. For the purposes of building with earth, the following
gradation of sieving is generally sufficient:
0.06 – 0.25 – 1.0 – 2.0 mm
Building earth is denominated according to the mass of the predominant
grain sizes in the following sequence:
gravel > 2mm
coarse sand0.2 to 2 mm1)
Fine sand 0.06 to 0.2 mm
Silt < 0.06 mm
1)
Note: for the purposes of building with earth, medium sand (0.2 to 0.6
mm) and coarse sand (0.6 to 2.0 mm) as defined by DIN 40221 need not
be differentiated and are grouped together as ‘coarse sand’.
Determining the grainsize distribution by sedimentation pursuant to
DIN 18123 makes it possible to differentiate between the mass fractions of
clay and silt in the fine grain range (< 0.06 mm) but is not suitable for
determining plastic behaviour or binding strength.
10
2. Building earth
Annex 1 to Chapter 2. Building earth
Binding strength test, method of testing
Preparation of earth sample
Each test requires around ¾ of a litre of earth that is as dry as possible and
no more than groundmoist. All grain sizes in the mineral framework above
2 mm shall be removed from the sample by sorting or sieving the dried,
pulverised earth. The earth is beaten flat on a metal plate in a near
groundmoist state using a hammer with a head surface of 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm
one hit at a time adding a small amount of water, until there is a cohesive
pancake is formed. The pancake is then removed from the plate using a
knife and cut into strips. The strips are then to be placed next to one
another edgewise and hammered. This process is repeated until there is
no longer any perceptible irregular structure on the underside of the
pancake. If the earth required drying at the beginning of the preparation, it
must be left to rest under a damp cloth for 6 hours after the hammering, or
12 hours in the case of fat earth. Whilst being left to rest, the moisture
spreads evenly throughout the entire mass of earth.
Producing the test consistency
200 g of the prepared earth are pounded multiple times such that they are
compacted on the plate. Directly thereafter, a ball is formed by hand. Being
shaped for a prolonged period dehumidifies the surface of the ball, as a
result of which it no longer has the same consistency throughout. The ball
is then dropped onto a flat, inelastic plate. The height of the drop is 2 m
from the centre of the ball. The earth has the test consistency if the
diameter of the flattening is 50 mm. If the flattening is not circular, the
difference between the largest and the smallest diameter may not exceed
2 mm.
Production of the test body
Earth at the test consistency in 3 layers is beaten by hand using a mallet
as depicted in Figure 2 into a shape for the test body as per Figure 1 b until
no further compaction is possible. The test body is smoothed out on both
sides using a straightedged knife. The test body loses its shape if it is
11
dropped from a height of 10 cm onto a hard surface. At least 3 test bodies
shall be made.
Tensile test
The test body is fastened into the test device shown in Figure 3 straight
after preparation and the load of dry sand of 1 mm in grain size is
introduced from the container shown in Figure 4 (or some other suitable
test equipment), until the test body ruptures. The increase in load should
be even and amount to no more than 750 g/minute.
The binding strength of a building earth is the average result of three
tensile tests, which tests may only deviate from one another by 10%. It is
expressed in g/cm2 or N/mm2. The calculated crosssection of the test body
is 5 cm2. The weight of the lower half of the test body is not taken into
account.
Figure 21 Test body for binding strength test (pursuant to DIN
V 18952, sheet 2)
12
2. Building earth
Key to figure:
Bild Figure
Gestalt des Probekörpers zur Bindekraftprüfung Form of the text body for binding strength test
Form für den Probekörper nach Bild 1a Template of the test body as per Figure 1a
Unterlegplatte für die Formen nach Bild 1b Packing block for the templates as per
Figure 1b
Zugfestigkeitsprüfer Tensile strength tester
Stampfer für Probekörper Mallet for test body
Einlaufgerät Feeding device
Inhalt 2,5 Liter Content 2.5 litres
Schieber Sliding valve
Rinne Channel
Galgen Support
Schnitt Section
Ansicht Front view
13
3. EARTHEN BUILDING MATERIALS
3.1 General
3.1.1 Definitions
Earthen building materials are unshaped or shaped building materials of
unfired earth with or without additives. Additives may be added in order to
reduce shrinkage, cracking and susceptibility to water, to increase thermal
insulation or tensile strength and resistance to pressure and abrasion or to
make the materials more workable. Additives may be organic (plantbased)
or mineralbased.
“Earthen building materials” within the meaning of these Rules refers
solely to earthbonded materials. Such materials achieve their
sturdiness only by drying and if acted on by water at any point will become
soft and shapeable again.
The reduction in volume on drying out is known as shrinkage. The
measure of shrinkage represents the linear shrinkage of an earth prism
after drying out.
3.1.2 Labelling of earthen building materials (declaration)
Factoryproduced earthen building materials shall be labelled. The labelling
should include all the characteristic values required for each building
material and a full specification of the substances used to produce it.
The labelling should be clearly legible on the packaging or on a sheet
accompanying the delivery.
3.1.3 Composition and preparation of earthen building materials
Earthen building materials are produced from building earth and optionally
additives. Preparation covers the mixing process, with or without the
addition of water, and all other work necessary to produce what are at this
stage unshaped earthen building materials.
14
3. Earthen building materials
The purpose of preparation is to produce a homogeneous mass of starting
materials that is readytouse and to unlock and evenly distribute the clay
minerals that provide binding strength.
Whenever earthen building materials are prepared it must be absolutely
ensured that contamination with any kind of humus is prevented.
Starting materials, mixing ratios and mixing processes shall be selected
such that the requirements that are made of the various building materials
can be met in the best possible way. References in Chapter 3 to the
suitability of building earth and to mix ratios thus serve in this regard only
as rules of thumb for a rough approach. The evaluation of the finished
building materials is decided by their characteristics.
3.1.4 Classification of building materials
Earthen building materials are classified by density, additives, processing
or use. These Rules cover the following earthen building materials:
Rammed earth (3.2)
Cob (3.3)
Fibrous clay, clay straw (3.4)
Light clay (3.5)
Earth fillings (3.6)
Earth blocks (3.7)
Clay panels (3.8)
Earth mortars (3.9)
3.1.5 Abbreviations
The following (Germanlanguage) abbreviations are used for earthen
building materials:
Rammed earth STL
Cob WL
Fibrous clay, clay straw FL, SL
15
Light clay LL
Wood light clay HLL
Straw light clay SLL
Fibrous light clay FLL
Mineral light clay MLL
Earth filling LT
Earth blocks LS
Clay panels LP
Earth mortars LM
Earth masonry mortars LMM
Earth plaster mortars/rendering LPM
Sprayed earth mortars LSM
3.1.6 Use of earthen building materials
Earthen building materials can be differentiated, amongst other things, by
the degree of prefabrication, their static function, the place in which they
are prepared or their degree of moisture at installation.
Unshaped building materials include earth mortars and light clay
preparations, shaped building materials include earth blocks and clay
panels.
Loadbearing earthen building materials with sufficient compressive
strength include earth blocks and rammed earth. Materials that are useful
only for framing, in other words not having a loadbearing function, include
clay straw and light clay.
Building materials that are installed damp are shaped into a building
material or applied onsite. Form dry installation, dried bricks are built into
walls using mortar. In dry construction, panels are laid dry.
16
3.1.7 Reuse, recycling and disposal of earthen building materials
Appropriately constructed, earthen building materials can be reused.
Recycling is possible by means of mechanical comminution and re
preparation with water. The potential for contamination with salts that are
counter to building use must be watched out for. Earthen building materials
can be landfilled in an environmentally friendly manner.
3.2 Rammed earth (STL)
3.2.1 Definition
Rammed earth is an earthen building material prepared groundmoist. The
dried, compacted building material has a particle density of 1700 to
2400 kg/m3. Adding lightweight additives makes it possible to achieve lower
densities.
3.2.2 Use
For rammed earth walls, the building material is compacted in a working
formwork; for the production of earth blocks it is pressed in moulds or
manually rammed; for rammed earth floors it is compacted flat.
3.2.3 Composition
Building earth
Thin to fat building earths may be used to produce rammed earth. The
binding strength may be increased by the addition of powdered clay. Very
fat building earths and clays are only capable of being processed into
homogeneous rammed earth mixtures with difficulty.
Naturally mixedgrained to stony earth (such as mountain earth or slope
wash) is particularly wellsuited.
Additives
Preparation involving additives is necessary if the building earth has too
high a measure of shrinkage and thus cannot be used as a building
material without addition or in order to increase compressive strength and,
17
where appropriate, weatherresistance. Mineralbased additives are coarse
sand, gravel or grit. Crushed mineral matter is particularly suitable. A wide
ranging distribution of grain sizes shall be observed. Organic additives
include straw up to around 10 cm in length or fine fibres (flax, hemp).
Mixtures of these are possible.
In thin earth, the volume ratios of building earth to additives is 1:1 to 1:2, in
fat earth it may be up to 1:2.5. If fibres are mixed in, the quantity used
depends on the binding strength of the building earth and the type of fibres.
Experience shows that the addition of fibres amounts to up to 10 kg per m3
of building earth.
3.2.4 Preparation
Preparation takes place by hand or using suitable mixing technology.
Preparation is complete when the building earth is homogeneously mixed
and uniformly moist. The readytouse rammed earth has a groundmoist
consistency. The rammed earth must be wellcompacted without yielding
too much under the mallet. The appropriate preparation consistency shall
be checked and monitored by the executing parties prior to and during
installation.
In order to reduce cracking due to shrinkage, the measure of shrinkage of
the compacted building material pursuant to 3.2.5 should not exceed 2%
and in visible components it should not exceed around 0.5%.
3.2.5 Testing
Particle density
Test cubes of side 20 cm shall be produced at the same compression ratio
as on the building site. The rounded average of at least three tests shall be
the decisive value. Individual values may not deviate from the average
value by more than 10%.
Compressive strength
Compressive strength is determined on at least three test cubes. The
smallest individual value is definitive. The test cubes shall be produced at
the same compression ratio as on the building site and shall be of side
20 cm. It is not permitted to accelerate drying. It shall be tested whether
18
equalised dampness is achieved under normal indoor conditions, usually
after 6 weeks. Before building commences, the first batch shall be tested,
then buildingsite mixes approximately every 10 m3 and factory mixes
approximately every 50 m3.
Measure of shrinkage
The measure of shrinkage is measured on a test body of 600 mm in length,
100 mm in width and approximately 50 mm in height, on which two gauge
marks are carved at a distance of 500 mm apart. Stones that impede
production of the test body are sifted out. After removal from the formwork,
the test body is laid on a membrane and dried naturally. The final measure
of shrinkage is measured. Before building commences, the first batch shall
be tested, then buildingsite mixes approximately every 10 m3 and factory
mixes approximately every 50 m3.
3.2.6 Labelling
The building material classification shall be specified as “rammed earth”
or the abbreviation “STL”.
The particle density of the dry building material shall be specified in
kg/m3, rounded to the nearest 100 kg/m3. Deviations of ± 10% are
permissible.
The compressive strength shall be specified in N/mm2, rounded off to
one decimal place. The value specified must not be gone below. Rammed
earth usable for nonloadbearing purposes, and only such earth, may, as
an alternative, bear a note to that effect.
The measure of shrinkage shall be specified as a percentage, rounded to
one decimal place. The value specified must not be exceeded.
3.3 Cob (WL)
3.3.1 Definition
Cob is a mixture of straw and earth prepared soft. The dried building
material has a particle density of 1400 to 1700 kg/m3.
19
3.3.2 Use
Cob is used to repair historic cobwork walls and to build new loadbearing
or nonloadbearing walls.
3.3.3 Composition
Building earth
All types of building earth can be used for cob. Only very fat earth and clay
are unsuitable, together with stony earth.
Additives
Straw of 30 to 40 cm in length is used as additive. Too high a proportion of
short straw is to be avoided. In thin earth, around 20 kg of straw is
assumed per m3 of loose earth, in fat earth it may be up to 25 kg.
3.3.4 Preparation
Earth and straw are added alternately, water is poured on top and worked
through. Preparation is complete when the building earth is uniformly
mixed with the additive. Before installation, the freshly prepared building
material should be left to rest (mature).
3.3.5 Testing
Particle density
The particle density is determined from test cubes of side 20 cm that are to
be produced as on the building site. The rounded average value from at
least three tests shall be definitive. Individual values may not deviate by
more than 10% from the average value.
Compressive strength is determined on at least three test cubes. The
smallest individual value is definitive. The test cubes shall be produced and
compressed as on the building site and shall be of side 20 cm. It is not
permitted to accelerate drying. It shall be tested whether equalised
dampness is achieved under normal indoor conditions. Before building
20
commences, the first batch shall be tested, then buildingsite mixes
approximately every 10 m3 and factory mixes approximately every 50 m3.
3.3.6 Labelling
The building material classification shall be specified as “cob” or the
abbreviation “WL”.
permissible.
The compressive strength shall be specified in N/mm2, rounded off to
one decimal place. The value specified must not be gone below. Cob
usable for nonloadbearing purposes, and only such cob, may, as an
alternative, bear a note to that effect.
3.4 Fibrous clay, clay straw (FL, SL)
3.4.1 Definition
Fibrous clay is generally a soft to pulpy prepared mixture of plant fibres
and earth. Where fibrous clay is prepared using straw the resultant building
material is called clay straw. The dried building material has a particle
density of 1200 to 1700 kg/m3.
3.4.2 Use
Clay straw (fibrous clay) is used as an infill material for framed walls and
joist ceilings and is also used for plasteringtype applications. If pressed in
moulds, earth blocks or clay panels can be produced.
3.4.3 Composition
Building earth
Earth classified by binding strength as very thin to thin can be used as
building earth.
21
Where fibrous clay is prepared by hand, it is recommended to use a sand
free, silty building earth in order to look after the hands in question.
Additives
Soft types of straw such as rye, oats, barley and coarse hay or other plant
fibres in lengths suited to the purpose at hand. Straw, for example, is used
in lengths of 5 to 25 cm. Fibrous clay can also be thinned with sand. The
density of additives (mass fraction of the additive/m3 of the component)
should be as high as possible to ensure low shrinkage and to build the
framework. This density is around 40 to 60 kg/m3 in the case of straw. In
the case of finer or shorter fibres, the fractions are higher.
3.4.4 Preparation
The building earth is prepared in a soft to pulpy consistency and mixed with
the straw/fibres.
Suitable mixing ratios are determined by experimentation, in dependence
on the starting materials used and the purpose. Preparation is complete
when the building earth is uniformly mixed with the additive. The fibres
must be enclosed by earth at all points.
Where clay straw (fibrous clay) from old timber framing is reprepared it
may be additionally thinned with sand or fibres. Fibres also act as
reinforcement.
3.4.5 Testing
Particle density
Test cubes of side 20 cm shall be produced as on the building site. The
rounded average value from at least three tests shall be definitive.
Individual values may not deviate by more than 10% from the average
value.
Shrinkage, suitability
The suitability of the building material can be evaluated by means of a
component sample. Clay straw prepared with sufficient straw exhibits close
to zero shrinkage or cracking. The lack of cracking does not have to be a
requirement in every case, however.
22
3.4.6 Labelling
The building material classification shall be specified as “clay straw” or
“fibrous clay” or the abbreviation “FL” or “SL” as appropriate.
permissible.
3.5 Light clay (LL)
3.5.1 Definition
Light clay is an earthen building material with a particle density of 300 to
1200 kg/m3. The earth is prepared in a runny to pulpy state and mixed with
organic or mineral lightweight additives.
Light (300 to 800 kg/m3) and heavy mixtures (900 to 1200 kg/m3) are
differentiated according to particle density.
Light clay can have additional labelling according to the type of lightweight
additive used, e.g.:
Straw light clay (SLL)
Fibrous light clay (FLL)
Wood light clay (HLL)
Mineral light clay (MLL).
3.5.2 Use
Light clay is used for exterior and interior walls, facing formwork or ceiling
infills.
The building material is compacted into formwork in the moist state or
shaped into bricks, large elements or panels.
Light clay is used to enclose spaces and may not bear any load save its
own weight.
23
3.5.3 Composition
Building earth
For light mixtures an earth classified according to its binding strength as at
least almost fat should be used. Very fat earth or else clay or powdered
clay that can be turned into slurry may also be used. Thin to very thin earth
should only be used for very heavy mixtures.
It is recommended to use a building earth with a silty mineral framework.
The building earth must be free of humus or other organic impurities.
Lightweight additives
Organic additives include all kinds of straw, wood chippings and all other
plantbased fibrous materials that are sufficiently resistant to the moisture
of installation. Fibrous additives should be no longer than the shortest
dimension of the building material or component being produced.
Mineralbased additives include all porous natural or artificial rock such as
pumice, expanded clay, perlite, expanded shale, expanded glass and so
on.
Mixtures of the various additives are permitted.
Mixing ratios
Suitable mixing ratios are determined by experimentation, in dependence
on the starting materials used. The density of additives (mass fraction of
the additive/m3 of the component) should be as high as possible in order to
build the framework, largely irrespective of whether it is lightweight or
heavy mixtures that are in question. The particle density realised is decided
by the mass fraction of the earth, which fills the spaces between the
additives to a greater or lesser extent. The additive densities for baled
straw, for example are around 6090 kg/m3. In the case of wood chippings
they around 300kg/m3, while for mineralbased lightweight additives they
are around 300600 kg/m3.
24
3.5.4 Preparation
The building earth or clay is slurried with water and mixed with the
lightweight additives in a runny to pulpy consistency. The slurry is prepared
either manually or in suitable stirring machines or mixers.
Fat earth can be prepared to be runny but thinner earth should be
prepared to be of a pulpy consistency.
The additives have slurry poured on them, are immersed in the slurry or
are machinemixed with it. Before installation, the freshly prepared building
material should be left to rest (souring).
Lightweight mixtures have an open structure in which the lightweight
additives are only bound by the earth. Heavy mixtures, on the other hand,
have a closed structure.
Composition and preparation shall be chosen in such a way that, in the
prepared building material, as well as in the shaped component, organic
additives, above all, are evenly enclosed by earth. The shaped dry building
material should exhibit a sturdiness sufficient for its intended use.
Provided that these requirements are met, even methods of preparation
that deviate from the above description may be used.
3.5.5 Testing
Particle density
Test cubes of side 20 cm shall be produced as on the building site. The
rounded average value from at least three tests shall be definitive.
Individual values may not deviate by more than 10% from the average
value.
Consistency of the slurry
The prepared building material, or where appropriate a component sample,
is checked to ensure the reliable enclosing of the additives with earth
slurry. A consistent consistency of the slurry can be checked by means of
the slump, determined as the diameter of 100 ml of slurry poured on a
sheet of metal or glass.
25
Sturdiness
The sturdiness of the building material can be evaluated by means of a
component sample. No compression test is required.
3.5.6 Labelling
The building material classification shall be specified as “light clay”(with
the additive also being specified) or the abbreviation “LL” (or “HLL”, “SLL”,
“FLL” or “MLL” as appropriate).
permissible.
3.6 Earth fillings (LT)
3.6.1 Definition
Earth fillings are earthbonded, freeflowing preparations of building earth
and additives to fill horizontal components. The dried building materials
have particle densities of 300 to 2200 kg/m3. Earth fillings with a particle
density below 1200 kg/m3 can also be called light earth fillings.
Earth fillings may also be designated in accordance with their additive, as
in the following examples:
sand/earth filling
wood/earth filling
wood/light earth filling
building earth filling (no additives).
3.6.2 Use
Earth fillings are used to provide mass filling for ceilings and to fill cavities.
Earth fillings can be produced in various particle densities to provide the
desired characteristics.
26
3.6.3 Composition
Earth fillings consist of building earth or mixtures of building earth and
additives. All types of building earth are suitable. The additives may be
mineralbased or organic. Suitable mixing ratios are determined by
experimentation, in dependence on the starting materials used.
3.6.4 Preparation
The building earth is mixed with the additives either by hand or
mechanically. Installation should take place in a groundmoist state.
3.6.5 Testing
Particle density
The test bodies shall be produced for earth fillings and compressed as on
the building site and shall be of side 20 cm. The rounded average of at
least three tests shall be the decisive value. Individual values may not
deviate from the average value by more than 10%.
3.6.6 Labelling
The building material classification shall be specified as “earth filling” or
“fibrous clay”, as appropriate, or the abbreviation “LT”.
permissible.
3.7 Earth blocks (LS)
3.7.1 Definitions
All dried, cuboid earthen building materials are generally referred to as
earth blocks.
Earth blocks with a particle density below 1200 kg/m3 can also be called
light earth blocks.
27
3.7.2 Use
Earth blocks are divided into use classes in Table 31 depending on their
intended purpose and loading.
28
Table 31
Earth block use classes
Use class Uses
I Plastered exterior walling that is exposed to the
elements
II Faced, weatherproofed external walling,
indoor walling
III Dry use (flooring, stacked walls)
Earth blocks of Use Class I must have a homogeneous structure,
adequate resistance to water and frost and may only exhibit a small
amount of swelling behaviour. Where the compressive strength is
adequate, they can be used for loadbearing masonry. Class I blocks
should be used as unperforated full blocks, not counting handle holes.
Honeycomb bricks are not permitted.
Earth blocks of Use Class II must exhibit adequate sturdiness and may not
swell excessively when taking on moisture in wallbuilding and plastering in
the course of the use envisaged. Where the compressive strength is
adequate, they can be used for loadbearing masonry. Class II blocks
should exhibit a proportion of no more than 15% of cavities derived from
their manufacture.
Earth blocks of Use Class III must be sufficiently sturdy for the use
envisaged. There is no restriction on the proportion of cavities in Class III
blocks.
Earth blocks must be dried for wallbuilding and must be as free as
possible of shrinkage cracks.
If earth blocks are used for loadbearing purposes, they must meet at least
Strength Class 2. In other words the smallest individual value of the
compressive strength under 3.7.7 must be at least 2 N/mm2 and the
average must be at least 2.5 N/mm2. The requirements laid down in Table
4.1 of Section 4.1 shall be satisfied.
3.7.3 Composition and production
Earth blocks are produced from earthen building materials or from
prepared building earth. In the manual moulding method, soft earthen
building material is beaten (“thrown”) into mould frameworks and then
29
levelled off. In the compression method, the earthen building material is
pressed into moulds in the groundmoist state. In the extrusion moulding
method the blocks are cut from a continuous slab moulded by a die relief.
Optimised additives and reduced moulding pressure make it possible to
produce a sufficiently homogeneous structure.
Earth blocks may also be prepared onsite using similar, suitable methods
such as ramming into moulds.
Green bricks is the name given to certain “green” blocks from brick
production that are intended for firing but are used unfired. They are
usually produced using the extrusion moulding method with, for the most
part, high compaction, from earth and clay preparations.
3.7.4 Suitability
The categorisation of earth blocks into Use Classes I and II is to be done
by the manufacturers on their own responsibility.
Shaped, moulded and rammed earth blocks generally exhibit the
characteristics necessary for Class I. In the case of extrusionmoulded
earth blocks, particular attention must be paid to their characteristics
(sturdiness, homogeneity, waterresistance, swelling behaviour).
Green bricks are susceptible to breaking, dissolve quickly in water and
have a dense, shelllike structure derived from their manufacture. When
they take on water they swell considerably. Green bricks may not be used
in Class I, while their suitability for Class II is to be tested by the user.
3.7.5 Testing
Format
The dimensions are determined in a method analogous to DIN V 1051.
Particle density
The blocks themselves may be used as test bodies. The rounded average of at
least three tests shall be the decisive value. Individual values may not
deviate from the average value by more than 10%.
30
The compressive strength of earth blocks shall be [tested] pursuant to
DIN V 1051. Standard and thinformat blocks shall be halved and the two
halves laid atop one another with a cement mortar layer no more than
5 mm thick. In order to even out any unevenness, the top and bottom of
the test body so produced shall be smoothed out with no more than 5 mm
of cement mortar. Full bricks of larger formats (above 113 mm in height)
shall be tested over the entire block, as shall perforated bricks. Six test
bodies shall be the required number of samples.
The pressure shall be applied perpendicular to the direction of laying, as is
the case in brickwork. The compressive strength is determined from the
breaking load determined in the compression test in relation to the surface
area of the test body (including any cavities). The compressive strength
shall be stipulated in the test report in N/mm2, rounded off to one decimal
place.
Earth blocks used for loadbearing purposes shall be categorised by
strength class. In so doing, the smallest individual value of the test series
may not be less than the strength class value. The average must be 25%
above the strength class value. Earth blocks used for loadbearing
purposes must be of at least Strength Class 2 – in other words the smallest
individual value must be above 2 N/mm2 and the average must be above
2.5 N/mm2. Repetition tests shall be performed every 50 m3 on factory
produced earth blocks and every 10 m3 on handshaped earth blocks.
Three test bodies shall be tested.
3.7.6 Labelling
The building material classification shall be specified as “earth block” or
“light earth block”, as appropriate, or the abbreviation “LS”. In addition, the
use class and the method of manufacture shall be specified.
The format can be specified as a format abbreviation in line with
DIN V 1051 Table 5 and/or as length x width x height rounded to whole
numbers in mm or to one decimal place in cm. What is referred to are the
minimum and maximum permissible measurements and the permissible
measurement ranges pursuant to DIN V 1051 Table 2. In formats other
than those of the standards, the minimum and maximum permissible
31
measurements and the permissible measurement ranges shall apply on a
proportional basis.
The particle density shall be specified in kg/m3, rounded to the nearest
100 kg/m3. Deviations of ± 10% are permissible.
In the case of earth blocks used for loadbearing purposes, the block
strength class shall be specified. Earth blocks usable for nonloadbearing
purposes, and only such blocks, may, as an alternative, bear a note to that
effect.
3.8 Clay panels (LP)
3.8.1 Definition
Clay panels are building materials in panel form. Clay panels with a
particle density below 1200 kg/m3 can also be called light clay panels.
3.8.2 Use
Clay panels are built into walls or linked together dry. These panels are
used in nonloadbearing walls, as infill panels in joist ceilings or sloping
roofs and as flooring.
Thin clay panels are used as facings and in dry construction. In addition,
they are also used as plaster base panels.
3.8.3 Composition and manufacture
Clay panels are manufactured as unshaped earthen building materials.
Other production methods include extrusion moulding, individual moulding,
brushing and jacketed production. Clay panels can also be produced on
site using suitable methods.
In order to increase flexural strength and durability on transport,
reinforcements such as wooden slats, bamboo or reeds may be
incorporated.
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3.8.4 Testing
Particle density
Clay panels are cut to a suitable size to form test bodies. The rounded
average of at least three tests shall be the decisive value. Individual values
may not deviate from the average value by more than 10%.
3.8.5 Labelling
The building material classification shall be specified as “clay panel” or
“light clay panel”, as appropriate, or the abbreviation “LP”.
The particle density shall be specified in kg/m3, rounded to the nearest
100 kg/m3. Deviations of ± 10% are permissible.
3.9 Earth mortars
3.9.1 Definition
Earth mortars are building earths thinned with finegrained or finefibred
additives. Mortars with a dry particle density below 1200 kg/m3 can also be
called light earth mortars.
3.9.2 Use
Earth masonry mortars (LMM) and light earth mortars are used as
mortars for earth blocks or artificial stone, fired stone or natural stone.
Sprayed earth mortars (LSM) and sprayed light earth mortars are used
as infill for wooden constructions, to produce facing formwork and interior
walls and as infill for ceilings. This category does not cover sprayed plaster
mortars/rendering.
Earth plaster mortars/rendering (LPM) and light earth plaster
mortars/rendering are used for resurfacing walls and ceilings indoors or in
outdoor areas protected from weathering.
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3.9.3 Composition
Earth mortars are produced from building earth with suitable additives. The
starting materials must be selected such that the characteristics of the
finished mortar comply with the requirements of these Rules.
The characteristics of earth mortars essentially depend on the binding
strength of the building earth. It is recommended to use a building earth
that is not too lean, is free of stones and has a grain size below 5 mm.
The additives used for earth mortars are sand, chopped straw or other
plantbased fibrous materials. For light earth mortars suitable mineral or
plantbased light additives are used. For plaster mortars/rendering
historical or regional additives such as whey or dung may also be used,
where experience and the necessary testing are in place.
3.9.4 Preparation
General
Earth mortars should be thinned to the extent that shrinkage cracking is no
longer exhibited after drying. Thinning beyond this reduces the
compressive strength of the mortar and the adhesive strength and
abrasion resistance of plastering. In plaster undercoats a small extent of
shrinkage cracks can be tolerated.
Earth mortars must be thinned and prepared, depending on their purpose,
to be machine or trowelready.
Building site mortars
Building site mortars are made up from individual starting materials and
mixed on the building site. Due to the very differing starting materials in
building with earth, binding mixing ratios cannot be prescribed.
Formulations are determined by experience and local building tradition.
Mixes produced on site must be free of large grains above 5 mm. Dug
earth should be left to mature and should be well mixed. Special attention
must be paid to the homogeneity of the mix.
The freshly prepared building material can be worked immediately or after
it has been allowed to rest (mature).
34
Factory materials mortars
Factory materials processed mortars are made up from the starting
materials supplied by the manufacturer (such as crushed earths) and
mixed to the formulation on the building site (adding sand, for example).
Factorysupplied mortars
Factorysupplied mortars are supplied dry or groundmoist and mixed with
water on the building site according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Recycled mortars
Earth mortars can be reprepared from recycled masonry mortar, old
plastering or clay straw and water, provided the material used is free of
impurities (such as salt). If cracks form in the repreparation process, the
mix can be thinned using additional sand or straw.
3.9.5 Requirements
Depending on the intended use and loading, masonry mortars, plaster
mortars/rendering and sprayed mortars have to meet differing
requirements and exhibit specific characteristics.
These are essentially as follows:
compressive strength,
dry particle density, and
measure of shrinkage.
The mortar supplied must comply with the requirements and the values
stipulated. In the case of factorysupplied mortars and factory materials
mortars the initial inspection and the factory production control shall
proceed in line with DIN EN 998.
In the case of building site mortars, suitability can be tested using a
component sample and other samples. If the intended use so requires, the
requirements for factorysupplied mortars shall apply as appropriate (e.g.
the required compressive strength for loadbearing walls).
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3.9.6 Testing
Sampling
Sampling should be based on DIN EN 10152.
Particle density (hardened mortar)
Test cubes of side 10 cm shall be produced as on the building site.
Alternatively, prisms may be used for compression testing (see below). The
rounded average of at least three tests shall be the decisive value.
Individual values may not deviate from the average value by more than
10%.
The compressive strength is tested using three airdried prisms in
accordance with DIN EN 101511. The smallest individual value is
definitive. The samples are produced using mortar in the preparationready
consistency.
Measure of shrinkage
The linear measure of shrinkage is determined on three prisms with the
dimensions 160 mm x 40 mm x 40 mm. After removal from the formwork,
the test bodies are laid out on a membrane and airdried. The final
measure of shrinkage is measured. The samples are produced using
mortar with a consistency of 140 mm slump, in accordance with DIN
EN 10153.
Shrinkage (building site sample)
The propensity of the mortar to crack can be estimated using a sample
surface.
3.9.7 Labelling
The building material classification shall be specified as “earth masonry
mortar ”, “sprayed earth mortar ” or “earth plaster mortar/rendering”
depending on the intended use, preceded by the word “light” where
appropriate. As an alternative, the abbreviations “LMM”, “LSM” or “LPM”
can be used.
36
The particle density of the dried mortar shall be specified in kg/m3,
rounded to the nearest 100 kg/m3. Deviations of ± 10% are permissible.
The compressive strength of the earth masonry mortar shall be specified
in N/mm2, rounded to one decimal place. The value specified must not be
gone below. Earth masonry mortar usable for nonloadbearing purposes,
and only such earth masonry mortar, may, as an alternative, bear a note to
that effect.
The measure of shrinkage shall be specified as a percentage, rounded to
one decimal place. The value specified must not be exceeded.
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4. COMPONENTS BUILT WITH EARTH
4.1 Loadbearing walls
The design of buildings constructed of loadbearing components built with
earth shall for the time being continue to follow the global safety factor
approach, which is reflected in the reduction of the compressive strength to
permissible stresses. Conversion to design using partial safety factors in
accordance with DIN 1055-100 is in preparation.
Proof of the stability of loadbearing walls may be furnished using the
following method if the prerequisites contained in this chapter and in
particular in Tables T 41 and T 42 are satisfied.
4.1.1 General
The plan for buildings with loadbearing walls made of earthen building
materials needs to take account of the material properties and the method
of manufacture.
Definition
Walls and pillars are classed as loadbearing if they bear vertical and/or
horizontal loads and/or serve to provide reinforcement of loadbearing
walls to prevent them buckling.
Works management, special requirements
Buildings with loadbearing earth walls should only be used with instruction
and supervision from skilled workers that are sufficiently experienced in the
manufacture of loadbearing components built with earth (see 1.3.2).
Building period
When damp, earth can be susceptible to frost heave. Rammed earth walls
and cob walls are endangered by frost for longer than walls made of
hydraulically bound building materials. Earth block walls may only be used
if the absence of frost can be guaranteed.
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4. Components built with earth
Protection against weather during the execution of the
building work
During execution and drying, the top and sides of all components built of
earth must be shielded from heavy rain by means of protective covers.
The cover must be put on
a) if it starts to rain, and
b) at the end of the working day.
4.1.2 Construction
In principle, combining with other solid building materials should be
avoided on account of the differing settlement behaviour . Combined
masonry in particular is not permitted within a single layer.
Moistureproofing
Loadbearing components built with earth must be reliably protected
against contact with soil moisture or spray water including in damp rooms.
Particular care is required on flood plains.
A dampproof course shall be provided to protect against rising damp.
However, earth walls may not be erected directly on top of dampproof
courses. They shall be separated from the dampproof course by a layer at
least 5 cm thick made of waterproof materials. External skirting projections
are not permitted immediately at the foot of earth walls.
Earth walls may not be erected directly on top of solid floor panels on
which water may accumulate. They must stand on a waterproof layer that
is at least 5 cm thick. The water must be able to drain away at all times.
Requirements
Proof shall be furnished in accordance with Tables T 41 and T 42 with
regard to loadbearing walls and the building materials used. Proof shall be
furnished on a casebycase basis for greater storey heights and greater
distances between transverse walls.
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Reinforcement
The stability of loaded walls must be adequately ensured by means of
reinforcing transverse walls or ceilings or by other means, so that any
horizontal forces e.g. wind forces, are also safely conducted to the subsoil.
Ceilings shall be designed as rigid sheets, which shall be connected to the
walls accordingly. Alternatively, ring beams, the static properties of which
have been proven, shall be present . In all other cases, the absorption of
the wind forces shall be proven by calculation.
Proof of spatial rigidity may be dispensed with if reinforcing walls in
accordance with T 42 are present in the longitudinal and transverse
directions of the structure.
If the reinforcing transverse walls are interrupted by openings, the distance
from the reinforcing wall to the first opening must be ≥1/4 of the height of
the storey, but at least 75 cm. The reinforcing walls must extend to the
skirting or basement masonry walls without any great weakening or
misalignment.
Reinforcing transverse walls must be erected at the same time as the walls
that are to be reinforced on account of differing settlement. In the case of
rammed earth walls reinforced on one side, tension rods shall be placed at
the level of the ceiling and at 1/3 and 2/3 of the wall height, penetrating at
least 1.5 m into the transverse walls. If simultaneous erection is particularly
difficult from a construction point of view, masonry walls shall be
interlocked and rammed earth walls shall be connected together or with
masonry walls using a 5 cm deep channel in the wall that is to be
reinforced.
Anchoring of the walls
Exterior walls must be connected to the ceiling by wall ties in a manner resistant
to tensile forces. Gable walls must be protected against wind pressure and
wind suction by means of wall ties at the roofing bond.
Supports and openings
The building materials to be used for the supports for ceilings, main
beams and door and window lintels shall be selected according to the
stresses that occur. The distribution of pressure under point loads can be
estimated to be 60°. The loads shall be directed as centrally as possible.
40
Otherwise, the influence of eccentricity shall be taken into account in
connection with the stress analysis.
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T 41
Requirements pertaining to loadbearing walls1) constructed of earthen building
materials
1 Masonry made of Masonry Rammed earth Cob
earth blocks in
made of
MG II
earth blocks2)
with earth
mortar3)
2 Proofs
3 With 12 full Stone strength Stone strength Compressive Compres
storeys4) class class strength and sive
measure of strength
shrinkage
4 Stone strength 2 3 4 2 3 4 2 3 4 1
class or
compressive
strength [N/mm2]
5 Permissible 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.3 0.46) 0.56) 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.2
compressive
stresses
[N/mm2]5)
6 Measure of ≤ 2
shrinkage [%]
7 Minimum wall 36.5 36.5 32.5 40
thickness for
external walls
[cm]7)
8 Minimum wall 24 24 24 40
thickness for
internal walls
[cm]8)
9 Minimum cross 1300 1300 1600 3200
section of pillar
style walls
[cm2]
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Footnotes to Table T 41
1)
permissible storey height ≤ 3.25 m
2)
also other artificial stone or natural stone of any kind
3)
including mortar of MG I
4)
storey height ≤ 3.25 m, in the case of a full storey max. wall height including jamb wall 4
m above the upper edge of the skirting
5)
in the case of pillarstyle walls, the permissible stress should be decreased to 1.5 times
the minimum crosssection using the factor 0.8.
6)
permissible in connection with proof of the compressive strength of mortar on a level with
the relevant stone strength
7)
a minimum wall thickness of 24 cm is permissible in the case of singlestorey structures
that are not used for the permanent accommodation of people and have a storey height of
≤ 2.5 m. Compliance with the permissible compressive stress and the guarantee of spatial
stability shall be proven.
8)
Conditions: Storey height ≤ 2.75 m, live load including addition for parting wall
≤ 2.75 kN/m², only permissible as intermediate support for continuous ceilings with spans
of ≤ 4.5 m or in the case of the arrangement of a centring strip on a ring beam 6.0 m.
Deviation from these conditions requires the same thickness as the external walls.
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T 42
Reinforcing transverse walls
Wall thicknesses and maximum distances
Thickness of Storey height Minimum Maximum centre
the reinforcing, thickness of the spacing
loaded wall reinforcing
transverse
walls
(cm) (m) (cm) (m)
24 to 36.5 ≤ 3.25 11.5 4.5
>36.5 to 49 ≤ 3.25 17.5 6.0
>49 to 61.5 ≤ 3.50 24 7.0
Supports for lintels shall be at least 24 cm deep. Where calculations
require larger support lengths, the deflection of the lintel shall be limited to
l/500. Alternatively, the wall areas that are subject to higher loads can be
executed with a higher masonry strength.
Door and window reveals should not consist of different building
materials at the level of the openings due to differing settlements .
Grooves and recesses in loadbearing earth walls are permissible without
further proof, provided their arrangement and dimensions comply with the
limit values in DIN 10531 Table 10. If these limit values are exceeded, this
is required to be noted in the proof of stability.
4.1.3 Execution of earth block walls
Building material
Earth block walls are built of earth blocks with earth mortars or other
mortars. The blocks must be stored in a dry place.
Fabrication
The butt joints and coursing joints shall be filled with mortar to a thickness
of approximately 1 cm. Rammed and pressed blocks should be laid in such
a way that the wall load acts in the direction of ramming or pressing. Earth
blocks shall be bonded in a manner fit for purpose. The compressive
strength of the mortar shall be tailored to the strength of the earth blocks.
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Joints on external surfaces can be raked out to a depth of 1 cm to improve
the adhesion of the lime render.
4.1.4 Execution of rammed earth walls
Building material
Rammed earth is used as the building material for rammed earth walls.
The building material should be protected when stored.
Fabrication
The rammed earth is placed in a rigid formwork to a depth of approximately
10 to 15 cm, according to the material and compaction equipment, and
compacted. Horizontal reinforcing fillers can reduce the tendency for
cracks to form.
Drying
The drying times shall be taken into account when planning the building
period.
Measures to make plaster adhere
External lime rendering adheres to larger mineral components on the wall
surface. Surfaces with stony additives are cleaned using a steel broom. In
the case of walls made of finegrained rammed earth, the adhesion of
plaster can be achieved by means of rammed stone or mortar strips,
indentations or plaster base.
4.1.4 Execution of cob walls
Building material
Cob walls are built of cob.
Fabrication
The walls are built up in sweeping layers without formwork with a fork in
courses around 80 cm high. The individual courses are cut off flush with
the building line once they have dried out sufficiently. Cob walls must not
be plastered for at least a year on account of settlement and deformation.
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Drying
period. Damp earthen building materials must be able to dry as quickly as
possible. Moisture penetration for too long can cause organic additives to
rot, weaken adjacent wood components and cause the corrosion of steel
components.
4.1.6 Repair of loadbearing earth walls
Repairs must be carried out in keeping with the building material. Damaged
parts or parts that have been penetrated by salts are cut out down to the
preserved material and replaced by earth block masonry in earth mortar.
Smaller defects can be prewetted and filled with a suitable earthen
building material. Larger sections of wall can be executed using stocks of
similar building materials. Care shall be taken to provide adequate bonding
by means of grooves, interlocking or anchoring.
4.2 Vaulting
Definition
Clay vaults are structures curved on one side, domes are structures
curved on two sides. Barrel vaults are low clay vaults with short spans
used as loadbearing fillings between beams or girders.
Building materials
Vaults are built of earth blocks in earth or lime mortar. The compressive
strength of the building materials used shall be proven.
Planning and works management
The planning and works management of vaulted constructions may only be
transferred to sufficiently experienced experts.
Building period
Vaults may only be built if the absence of frost can be guaranteed.
46
Protection against weather during the execution of the
building work
During execution and drying, the top and sides of all components built of
earth must be shielded from heavy rain by means of protective covers.
The cover must be put on
a) if it starts to rain, and
b) at the end of the working day.
Any moisture penetration could jeopardise stability. The construction of
canopies is recommended.
proof of stability
Stability shall, in any case, be determined. Proof shall be furnished with
regard to vaulted ceilings in accordance with DIN 10531.
Construction
Vaults should as far as possible be loaded with normal forces only on
account of the low flexural tensile strength of the masonry. Pressure line
shapes are therefore recommended. For small spans, normal circles,
which are easier to make, can be sufficient.
Moistureproofing
Vaulted components exposed to weathering are given a protective roof
construction or a roof waterproofing sheet. Base points shall be reliably
protected.
Execution
The blocks shall be laid with flush joints. For the execution, sufficiently
stable working formwork is used or the walls can be built freehand using
appropriate masonry guides.
4.3 Nonloadbearing walls and infill
Nonloadbearing walls and infill are mainly subject to dead load only, as
well as to wind forces in the building shell. They do not have a reinforcing
effect. Nonloadbearing walls must satisfy the requirements of DIN 4103.
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Grooves and recesses should not exceed the dimension limits in
accordance with DIN 10531.
4.3.1 Infill of framed walls
Definition
Infill is understood to be filling with earthen building materials. The infilling
methods are consistent with the framework construction, divided into small
sections.
Building materials
Clay straw, light clay and earth blocks of the appropriate use class and
earth mortars are used as building materials.
Building period
When damp, earth can freeze. Earthen building materials such as clay
straw and light clay or even earth mortar that are installed damp are at risk
from frost for longer than walls made of hydraulically bound materials.
Protection against weather during execution of the building
work
Earth framework shall be protected against heavy rain.
Drying
period. Components built with earth must be able to dry as quickly as
components. Surfaces that remain damp for a long time can mould.
Wattle and daub
The wattle or wickerwork) is made of canes that are weaved into strutting.
The struts, sawn or split and pointed at the end, are inserted into grooves,
slots or holes in the framework beams. The position of the strutting is
measured from the flush face and is approximately 5 cm. Stable, straight
and durable canes (e.g. willow or hazel) are suitable for the wattle. The
48
canes should not be displaced during application and they should be
spaced according to the method of application chosen.
It must be possible for the daub, consisting of clay straw with a pulpy
consistency, to be pressed through the canes. Inner and outer layers
should be applied one after the other. The first application should have
dried. Timber framing that is to be plastered should be even and set back
from the flush edge of the beams by the same thickness as the plaster.
To ensure the adhesion of the lime render the surface should be suitably
roughened, unless a special render base is provided. Clay straw mixtures
with as high a proportion of straw as possible are recommended, this straw
being combed out of the surface using comb strokes or similar
techniques. In the case of sandy clay straw with a smaller proportion of
straw, holes must be made in the surface to improve render adhesion.
When repairing timber framing, the new clay straw should correspond to
the existing material as closely as possible. Reused clay straw can, where
appropriate, be thinned (see 3.4.4).
Strutting with daub
The struts are placed close together and clay straw or light clay straw is
worked, rolled or spread into the spaces in between.
Rolled struts (including cob)
The wall should first be staked out in a dry condition. The timber frames
are made from individual rolled struts that are prefabricated on a table. The
clay straw or light clay straw is wrapped round the struts and the fresh rolls
are pushed one on top of the other into the beam grooves.
Light clay
Infill made of light clay with moist placement is executed by analogy with
Chapter 4.3.4.
Masonry infill
Earth blocks: The timber frames are lined with earth blocks or light earth
blocks and earth masonry mortar. An adequate bond between the
framework and the wall lining on at least two opposing sides shall be
ensured by means of triangular battens, beam grooves or stainless steel
49
nails placed at intervals of approximately 25 cm. Trapezoid or rectangular
battens are only recommended if the blocks are grooved accordingly.
To ensure the adhesion of lime render, the joints should be raked out to a
maximum depth of 1 cm if no special render base is provided.
Other masonry using earth mortars: In the case of wall linings of brick,
rubble or other artificial blocks with earth mortar, the procedure shall be
carried out as above, but the raking out of the joints is dispensed with.
4.3.2 Nonloadbearing rammed earth walls
Construction
Nonloadbearing rammed earth walls are executed in the same way as
loadbearing rammed earth walls (se 4.1.4). The minimum wall thickness is
20 cm; a slenderness of 20 should not be exceeded.
4.3.3 Nonloadbearing masonry
Building materials
For nonloadbearing earth masonry, earth blocks of the appropriate use
class are used, laid using earth or lime mortar.
Green bricks are not suitable for use as the base for render or for the direct
application of lime render.
Construction
Earth masonry must be reliably protected against contact with soil moisture
or spray water.
Below masonry consisting of green bricks and below storey high walls a
waterproof layer shall be provided that extends at least 5 cm above the
top of the finished floor.
The masonry must be sufficiently stable and adequately reinforced or be
suitably bound to the supporting framework.
Masoned inner shells should be supported on each storey. From a
slenderness of h/d ≥ 15 they shall be secured against buckling by suitable
50
means, e.g. by vertical wooden posts or wall ties. Inner shells that are to be
extensively backfilled with light clay must be at least 11.5 cm thick.
Execution
The butt joints and coursing joints shall be filled with mortar to a thickness
of approximately 1 cm. Earth blocks shall be bonded in a manner fit for
purpose.
The bulk density of the earth masonry mortar should roughly correspond to
the bulk density of the block.
Connected walls should be erected at the same time. In the case of
continuous inner shells, only one storey may be built per day.
4.3.4 Light clay walls in damp installation
Definition
The wall infill of a loadbearing framework is constructed in formwork on
site using groundmoist to plastic light clay.
Building material
Light clay with organic or mineral additives is used as the building material.
The bulk density of the light clay should be at least 600 kg/m3. Lighter
mixtures must be sufficiently solid or be installed behind suitable
permanent formwork.
Building period
Where there are drying problems, mechanical drying of the structures is
recommended. Dry installation is largely independent of the frost period.
Construction
The loadbearing framework and, where relevant, a filler framework, shall
be constructed, without consideration of the infill, in such a way that wind
loads are removed and, for example, cladding can be attached. As a
protection against collapse, the intervals should be smaller than 1 m, or
sufficiently stable horizontal reinforcing bars should be installed.
Connection between infill and loadbearing structure must be ensured. The
51
wall thickness of the filler framework can be used to secure working
formwork or permanent formwork.
In damp installation with organic additives and in the case of unprotected
timber structures the wall thickness shall in principle be restricted to
30 cm. Unhindered drying on both sides is a prerequisite. Open and air
permeable plaster bases that can be used as permanent formwork, such
as woven reeds or similar materials, do not hinder drying.
Layers or inner shells that can dry out from one side only must not be more
than 15 cm thick. If the side that is impermeable to air consists of vapour
permeable building materials with good capillary conductivity (e.g. bricks or
earthen building materials), such layers can exceptionally be up to 20 cm
thick. Lightweight building panels with no capillary conductivity, made for
example of reeds or wood wool, are classed as impervious formwork.
The suitability of differing executions and wall thicknesses shall be
established by testing.
Light clay walls must be statically discharged on each storey. Their height
should not exceed 4.0 m. The structure and infill must be reliably protected
against contact with soil moisture or spray water. In order to make the
walls impervious to wind, structural parts that penetrate through the
external wall should be avoided.
Execution
Light clay is compacted in formwork or permanent formwork . Working
formwork should be removed as soon as possible so as not to delay drying
out.
The infill should be placed in as even a density as possible without cavities.
Surfaces that are to be plastered should be sufficiently firm and true to
dimensions.
Drying
components. Surfaces that remain damp for a long time can mould. It shall
be ensured by means of good ventilation that drying outside air can spread
52
along all light clay components. If this is not sufficient, mechanical drying of
the structures is necessary. The walls should be protected against heavy
rain.
Before applying plaster, the light clay must have dried out. A windproofing
clay grout can be applied immediately after removal of the formwork.
Attachments
Suitable auxiliary structures can be provided in the wall for the attachment
of heavy objects.
Testing
The dry state necessary for further work is determined by visual
inspection.
A more exact result should be obtained by drying and weighing a sample
extracted from the centre of the wall by core drilling or through another
opening. This test need only be carried out where justified in individual
cases. Light clay components are considered to be sufficiently dry if they
have a moisture content of approximately uv = 10%.
It has also proved valuable to determine the moisture content of adjacent
timber components.
4.3.5 Clay panel walls
Definition
Nonloadbearing walls or infill are constructed of clay or light clay panels.
Construction
Shear walls and infill must be sufficiently stable and adequately reinforced
or be suitably bound to the supporting framework, particularly if they
provide protection against collapse, reinforcement of a facade or if they
dissipate wind loads.
The requirements pertaining to structural moisture protection in Chapter
4.3.3 Nonloadbearing masonry shall be satisfied mutatis mutandis.
53
Execution
Clay panels are built into walls using mortar or are placed dry using
fastenings.
4.3.6 Stacked earth walls
Definition
Stacked earth walls are nonloadbearing facing formwork or infill that is
emplaced dry without using mortar.
Building materials
Suitable earthen building materials are earth blocks, light earth blocks, clay
panels or green bricks.
Execution
Blocks should be placed in a horizontal position bonded together and shall
be secured every 50 cm upwards with a horizontally mounted connecting
strip or a board. The connecting strips shall be adequately secured. If the
strips are used to attach subsequent coverings made of dry building
panels, the vertical distance between the strips can be smaller if
necessary. Above window and door lintels, rising stacked walls shall be
supported by squared timber or lath structures of adequate size.
If the walls are plastered wet, the butt joints between the blocks can be left
open approximately 5 mm. A plaster base or reinforcing fabric shall be
provided.
Cladding
The walls can be clad with dry building panels or plastered. In the case of
plaster, the butt joints should be left open 5 mm and a plaster base or
reinforcing fabric should be used.
4.3.7 Extruded walls
Definition
Wall infills or facing formwork are made using the extrusion method. In
contrast to extruded plaster coats, the coat thickness starts at 3 cm.
54
Building materials
Earth or light clay extruded mortar, or even pumpable clay straw or fibrous
clay is used as the building materials.
Construction
Applications using the earth extrusion method require a lattice lath into
which the (fibrous) coat penetrates or a flat base with carrying capacity to
which the coat adheres. This can be formed of masonry or lightweight
building panels, for example. In order to keep the coat flush, a level post or
lath construction over which the plaster is applied is recommended.
Execution
The wall shell is plastered using a plastering machine. In the case of flat
bases, up to a maximum of 5 cm can be applied in one session. Further
coats can be applied after the appropriate drying periods.
Drying
period. Components built with earth must be able to dry as quickly as
components. If natural ventilation is not adequate for sufficiently fast
drying, mechanical drying of the structures is necessary. Components built
with earth that take too long to dry can mould.
Further processing
Once they are fully dry, the surfaces can be soaked, smoothed and
painted, or they can be plastered or covered.
Testing
Boring can be used to test that the surfaces are dry.
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4.3.8 Plastered insulating boards
Definition
For internal insulation, thermal insulation sheets are plastered over their
entire surface on existing walls or ceilings.
Building materials
Sufficiently adhesive earth mortar is used for the mortar bed. Calcium
silicate panels, wood wool lightweight building panels, soft fibre wood
panels or reed panels, for example, are suitable for use as thermal
insulation sheets.
Construction
The adhesive layer must cover the entire surface to a thickness of at least
0.5 cm. Adhesive layers of more than 3.0 cm are not permissible for
reasons relating to drying.
Moistureproofing shall be taken into account when dimensioning the
internal insulation. This applies in particular in the case of framed walls
exposed to weather.
Execution
The adhesive layer shall be flat. The mortar is applied to the surfaces that
are to be insulated or to the back of the sheets. Immediately afterwards,
the thermal insulating sheets are pressed firmly into the toughplastic earth
mortar. Extensive fullsurface contact between sheet and earth mortar
must be ensured. For this purpose, additional attachment using screws or
dowels may be used.
Further processing
The thermal insulation sheets are usually plastered or covered. In this
regard, opportunity for the bedding mortar to dry out shall be taken into
consideration.
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4.4 Joist ceilings
Definition
Earthen building materials are installed as infill between the panels of joint
ceilings or used as flooring. The structure, layer thickness and building
materials used are selected according to the intended thermal, noise or fire
insulation requirements.
4.4.1 Strut ceilings
Definition
In the case of strut ceilings struts or laths bear the earth infill.
Building materials
Clay straw (or fibrous clay) and light clay straw with a soft consistency are
primarily used as earthen building materials. For preparation, soft long
stalked straw is preferred (rye, oat, barley).
The struts made of coniferous timber or hardwood can be sawn or split.
Round or halfround timber can also be used if the crosssections are large
enough.
Construction
The struts (or laths) are held in lateral beam grooves, rest on lateral
support laths or else a lath is attached along the top of the beam. Normal
crosssections of lathing with a spacing of around 8 pieces/m are sufficient
to transfer the load.
Execution
Before commencing work with earth, the struts are cut to the required
length with a small excess and are fitted between the ceiling beams without
displacing the beams. In the case of rolled and light clay ceilings, the struts
are taken out and reinstalled in the same place with the earth.
Rolled ceilings are made from individual, prefabricated rolled struts. Clay
straw or light clay straw is rolled around the struts on a table and the struts
57
are then pushed into the ceiling one after another while still damp and later
levelled off above and below with clay straw. Whole and half rolled ceilings
are differentiated according to their installation height.
Packed light clay ceilings are made of light clay packed into working
formwork together with the struts. Once the formwork has been removed,
the underside is a level plaster base.
In the case of lattice ceilings a lattice made out of laths or halfround
timber is attached between, above or below the beams, with very soft,
longstalked clay straw or fibrous clay pushed through from above. Any
tongues hanging down are smoothed out from below.
In the case of a lattice ceiling with plaster base, plaster base is placed
on the lattice grid and this is topped up with clay straw or light clay.
In the case of lattice plaster ceilings, a lattice attached with a smaller gap
and made of thin lattice laths has clay straw, fibrous clay or earth mortar
pressed through from one side and smoothed off.
After drying, strut and lattice ceilings are ready for plastering, if required.
Drying
components. Strut ceilings must not be walked on while they are drying.
4.4.2 Inserted ceilings
Definition
A formwork "inserted" between the beams and filled with a substance is
described as an insert.
Building materials
Earth, light clay or building earth fillings are used as earthen building
materials, the latter also in a dry state. In addition, any type of earth blocks
and green bricks or unreinforced clay panels can also be laid.
58
Construction
The formwork rests on lateral support laths. It can be made of boards,
slabs, lightweight building panels or earthen dry building panels.
Depending on the earthen building material used and the design of the
joints, protection against dripping shall be provided.
Execution
Damp earthen building materials are lightly compacted and smoothed on
the top. Open joints of blocks and panels laid dry can be swept with earth
or sand or, to increase noise insulation, filled airtight with mortar.
Drying
components. If natural ventilation is not adequate for sufficiently fast
drying, mechanical drying of the structures is necessary. Components that
take too long to dry can mould.
4.4.3 Flooring
Definition
Earthen building materials rest flat, usually on continuous planking on the
frame of joists.
Building materials
With a view to swift progress of the building work and quick accessibility,
preformed dry building materials such as earth blocks, green bricks and
unreinforced clay panels are appropriate for flooring. In principle, however,
it is also possible to use earthen building materials installed damp. Their
weakness or decreased stability under the load of the floor covering shall
be taken into account.
Construction
The planking shall be designed for static loading.
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Depending on the earthen building material used and the design of the
joints, protection against dripping shall be provided.
4.4.4 Ceilings with clay panels
Definition
Joist ceilings that are infilled with clay panels.
Building materials
Clay panels are used as building materials. Reinforced and unreinforced
clay panels are only used as selfsupporting panels.
Construction
Reinforcing bars for clay panels should rest on the top of beams or on
support laths. For this purpose, the panels are folded along the side.
Execution
The panels can be laid dry. Where the dimensional accuracy is low,
pasting the panels together using earth mortar, something that can also be
used for defects, is recommended.
Further processing
The underside of panels can be plastered.
4.4.5 Infill of roof slopes
Taking into account the particular geometric features and the course of the
construction, the infill of roof slopes can, where appropriate, be provided
with temporary weather protection such as ceiling constructions.
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4.5 Plastering/rendering
4.5.1 General
Uses
These Rules cover uses of plastering/rendering where either the plaster
mortar/rendering or the base consist of earthen building materials, namely:
earthen plastering/rendering on earthen or other bases,
other plastering/rendering on earthen bases.
Unless regulated otherwise in these Rules, the relevant standards, in
particular DIN EN 9981 and DIN V 18550 shall apply.
Thin coatings of < 3 mm, earthen coating materials and stabilised earthen
plastering/rendering are not plastering/rendering within the meaning of
these Rules.
Definitions
Plastering/rendering is a coating produced from plaster mortars/rendering
and applied to walls, ceilings and roof slopes that only attains its final
characteristics once hardened on the building structure.
The plaster/render base is the component that is to be
plastered/rendered. The plaster/render undercoat means the lower layers
of a plastering/rendering, as the plaster/render finishing coat is the top
layer. A plaster/render layer is applied from the same mortar (fresh on
fresh) in one or more operation(s). The method of plastering/rendering
refers to the nature of the application, in particular the surface work, for
instance roughened, smoothed, etc. (for definitions, cf. DIN EN 9981 and
DIN V 18550).
Guidelines for planning
Plastering/rendering serves as a covering and surface design and performs
physical building tasks. The requirements to be applied to the
plastering/rendering and plastering/rendering systems shall be laid down in
the course of planning, in particular the sturdiness required and the method
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of plastering/rendering, account being taken of the properties of the
plaster/render base.
Requirements
In general, plastering/rendering must be applied evenly to the base, the
individual layers showing good adhesion towards each other. Within the
individual layers, the mortar should possess an even structure. The
sturdiness of the plastering/rendering should be adapted to the
plaster/render base and plastering/rendering use in question. The abrasion
resistance and surface characteristics shall be selected in dependence on
plastering/rendering use.
The surface of the plastering/rendering should be free of cracks. Hairline
cracks are nothing to be concerned about provided that they do not have a
negative impact on the technical and optical value of the
plastering/rendering.
Interior plastering consisting of plaster mortars with mineral binders
should, as it bears paint and wallpaper, meet the usual requirements of
Category CSII (compressive strength 1.5 to 5.0 N/mm2) pursuant to
DIN EN 9981. Earthen plastering/rendering should, correspondingly, have
a compressive strength of ≥1.5 N/mm2.
Exterior rendering must be weatherproof, which is to say that the
rendering system must be able to withstand the action of moisture and
varying temperatures, especially on those sides facing the predominant
winds (weatherexposed sides).
Execution
At the time of execution the component should be sufficiently dry. The
shrinking and setting of earthen bases must be finished.
The plaster/render base shall be carefully checked, and where necessary
prepared, in order to achieve good adhesion of the plastering/rendering to
the base.
The plastering/rendering base should be true to size such that the
plastering/rendering can be applied with an even thickness. The
plaster/render base must be even, capable of bearing, dustfree and free of
contaminants. Stock bases may not contain salts that are counter to
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building use. The component must be frostfree up to a sufficient hardening
of the plastering/rendering (not below +5 °C).
All steps that help to create a sound and durable adhesion of the
plastering/rendering represent the preparation of the plaster/render
base. Too rapid or too uneven a dehydration of the plaster/render base
shall be prevented, depending on the plastering/rendering system. Loose
constituents shall be removed or stabilised. Dust on the top surface shall
be brushed off or bound in by dampening. If a level course is required, its
strength must be in line with the plastering/rendering structure. The
strength, handle and adhesion of the plaster/render base can be improved
by spray rendering consisting of earth mortars or other mortars, suitable
hardeners, bonding layers and primers. Areas with penetrating substances
shall be properly sealed off.
Plaster/render carriers facilitate the adhesion of the plastering/rendering
largely independent of the base. They are used on smooth bases (such as
wood) or uncertain bases (such as wood, mixed bases).
4.5.2 Earthen plastering/rendering
Suitability
Earthen plastering/rendering is predominantly suitable as interior
plastering. As, like other earthen building materials, it is susceptible to
water, earthen plastering/rendering is only suitable for components
outdoors where these are protected from the effects of the weather. With
sufficient experience, however, it is possible to achieve good results even
with components which are acted upon by rain – using suitable mortar
additives such as whey, dung or fine fibres and special surface treatments.
Earthen plastering/rendering is suitable for the plastering/rendering of
earthen building materials and other plaster/render bases that are common
in building. In order to assess the suitability of the plastering/rendering
system and the nature of the preparation of the plaster/render base, a
component sample shall be taken.
Earthen plasters/renders can have very widely varying strength
characteristics depending on the composition and processing of the plaster
mortars/rendering used and the treatment of the surface. In general they
are suited to surfaces that are under little mechanical loading. Where the
loading is greater (such as is the case in stairways and corridors), the
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suitability of the plastering/rendering system shall be examined on a case
bycase basis. Flaws in lightcoloured paints on dark earthen
plastering/rendering always have a negative impact on the visual aesthetic.
Component samples or other samples are recommended.
Earthen plastering/rendering is suitable for rooms with a normal humidity,
which includes domestic kitchens and bathrooms where the humidity is not
durably raised. Where it is anticipated that the wallpaper will be changed
frequently, it is recommended that other types of plaster be used. That
said, earthen plastering/rendering is only suited to tiling to a limited extent.
Requirements
Earthen interior plasters should satisfy the requirements under 4.5.1.
Plasters that are applied soft should also be adapted to the intended
purpose of plastering and to the plaster base. There must be sufficient
strength for further treatment (coating).
The measure of shrinkage pursuant to 3.9.6 should be no more than 2%.
Where fibrous matter is mixed in, on thin application of careful post
treatment and for small surfaces, a measure of shrinkage of more than 2%
can be without problems. A small extent of shrinkage cracks can be
tolerated in plaster undercoats provided that sufficient mechanical
adhesion to the base is ensured and that such cracks do not show through
where thin plaster finishing coats are applied. Plaster finishing coats shall
be applied so as to be as crackfree as possible.
Special requirements for the surface design, such as a uniformity of
colour and structure or evenness shall be laid down on a casebycase
basis. Sufficiently large surface samples or specimens under the defined
light conditions are suitable for this purpose.
Plaster mortars/rendering
Earth mortars pursuant to 3.9 are used for earthen interior plastering.
Plasters can also be produced with applications of clay straw or fibrous
clay pursuant to 3.4.
Plastering/rendering systems
The selection of the plastering/rendering system is based on the
plastering/rendering base and the requirements for the
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plastering/rendering, the method of plastering/rendering in accordance with
the surface sought.
Singlecourse earthen plastering/rendering can be employed on all
flushly, truetosize and evenly absorptive bases. The standard thickness
of plastering/rendering is 10 to 15 mm, or 3 to 5 mm on flush surfaces
(thincourse plastering/rendering). Where the plastering/rendering or
coatings are applied too thinly, however, (masonry) joints in the base can
show through.
Multicourse earthen plastering/rendering is used on all other bases.
They are also necessary where the plastered/rendered surface sought
cannot be produced without a preparatory plaster/render undercoat. A
multicourse configuration is also recommended in order to achieve certain
thicknesses of plastering/rendering or where a reinforcing fabric is to be
built in. Any plaster/render undercoat should be sufficiently dry before
application of the plaster/render finishing coat to rule out later shrinkage
cracks. Multicourse plasters/renders are 5 to 20 mm thick.
Earthen plasters/renders are generally applied in multiple courses to wall
mounted heating systems.
The specifications of the heating or plastering/rendering manufacturer
shall be observed in respect of the plastering/rendering superstructure,
plastering/rendering thicknesses, reinforcements and behaviour under
heating.
The suitability of other plastering/rendering systems can be demonstrated
by proven experience or through component testing.
Application and surface treatment
The plastering/rendering is applied either by hand or mechanically. It can
be projected or smeared on. In the case of plastering/rendering produced
onsite, a work specimen should be built. In the case of readymade
products the manufacturer’s instructions must be observed.
Plastering/renderingreinforcement fabrics shall be plastered in in
accordance with the technical regulations. It is recommended, in the light of
the softness of earthen plastering/rendering, to round off edges or provide
cornerprotecting profiles. Earthen plastering/rendering can be roughened,
felted or smoothed.
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Drying
Drying times shall be taken into account when planning the building period.
Earthen plastering/rendering must be able to dry as quickly as possible. If
natural ventilation is not adequate for sufficiently quick drying, mechanical
drying of the structures is necessary. Earthen plastering/rendering that
takes too long to dry can mould. This can be avoided if proper drying is
supervised at short intervals by means, for example, of a drying log.
Further treatment
Earthen plastering/rendering can be left as is in terms of colour or can be
further treated by painting or coating. The plaster/render must be
sufficiently dry for further treatment. This dryness can be determined by
means of visual inspection. Earthen plastering forming the base for
frescoes is an exception to this. Surfaces that are to be sanded should be
brushed off before further treatment.
Earthen plastering/rendering left as is in terms of colour can be
consolidated where required. In such cases work specimens are
recommended.
Paints are to be applied to earthen bases in line with experience, technical
regulations and the manufacturer’s instructions. Thin, porous paints such
as loam or lime paints are recommended. Solid, thick and layerbuilding
paints tend to demask. Where lime slurries are used the earthen
plastering/rendering base must be carefully soaked. Where appropriate,
the earthen plastering/rendering surfaces must first be primed or
consolidated by rubbing a slurry of fine sand and lime into them.
Thin lime plasters of the mortar group PI pursuant to DIN V 18550 shall
be applied to sufficiently coarse and carefully presoaked bases in a
thickness of 3 to 5 mm.
For wallpaper, sufficiently smooth earthen plasters may be pretreated
with a suitable primer. Waste sheets may be applied in order subsequently
to strip the wallpaper. Wallpaper that is to be stripped shall be carefully
wetted.
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Repair and renovation
In the event of flaws and damage, the earthen plastering shall be soaked,
before replastering or filling takes place using earth mortar or a suitable
surfacer.
For the purposes of touching up, earthen plaster surfaces can be soaked
and reprocessed.
4.5.3 Other plastering/rendering on earthen bases.
Plaster mortars/rendering
The plaster mortar/rendering should be as soft, elastic and diffusible as
possible in line with the earthen base. In the case of interior plastering,
standard lime, lime/gypsum or gypsum mortars may suitably be used.
In the case of exterior rendering, lime mortars of the mortar groups P I or
P II may be used. On protected sides, mortar group P I (cf. DIN V 18550,
DIN EN 9981) is sufficient.
Plastering/rendering systems
Interior plasters are applied in standard thicknesses while for exterior
renders the thickness of render should be at least 20 mm on surfaces
subject to rain, with multiple courses being required. The general
plastering/rendering rule which states that mortar strengths should be
increased towards the base is often inapplicable in building with earth as
the protective plaster/render finishing coats are, for the most part, harder
than the earth bases. Bases must therefore be prepared accordingly or
provided with plaster/render carriers. Hard topcoats on soft bases can also
sound hollow on tap testing, even when there is sufficient adhesion with
the plaster/render.
Execution
The plaster mortars/rendering are processed in accordance with the
relevant regulations, standards and manufacturers’ instructions. A soaking
of the strongly absorbent earthen bases prevents mortars from drying out
too quickly and encourages them to set. Preparation by means of machine
spraying improves the mechanical adhesion onto the earthen bases. The
appropriate fabric for the plaster mortars/rendering in question are used as
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a means of reinforcement for the plastering/rendering. Plaster/render
surfaces can be separated from neighbouring components by means of a
fine cut by a knife or trowel.
Lime exterior renders should only be applied in suitable weather
conditions. After application they may need followup treatment. In order to
protect against frost they shall be suitably painted in good time.
4.5.4 Special features of exterior rendering for visible latticework
Loading
Exterior rendering for visible latticework is exposed to special loading
conditions on weatherexposed sides. Water that penetrates marginal
joints can cause the topcoat of render to peel from the soft base. Additional
joint sealing in turn prevents moisture that has penetrated in patches from
drying out. Lateral pressure from the beams onto the framework can lead
to shear stresses and spalling between the render and the base. The
loading on the render increases the more
a) stress there is on the framework from driving rain and the more the
expanding and shrinking of the beams leads to large grooves;
b) thermal deformation is brought about by strong sunshine and dark
colouring occurs on the beams;
c) the individual beams of the framework tend only to warp (newly
incorporated wood, as well as old wood);
d) the entire building structure is subject to deformation;
e) there are additional stresses such as vibration caused by road traffic.
A careful assessment of the loading in accordance with the relevant
climatic and sitebased conditions is a requirement for choosing the
appropriate plastering/rendering system. It is possible for this assessment
to result in a decision that visible latticework must be done without.
Otherwise permanent maintenance of the highloading surfaces must be
included in the calculations.
The timing of the rendering shall be chosen to be so late that the
deformations of construction, shrinkage and settlement of the earthen
bases and the warping of the wooden components caused by the moisture
of installation has largely concluded. In the case of the framework render
for visible latticework a heating period should be awaited, at the least.
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Plastering/rendering systems for framework render/plaster
Lime plastering/rendering on an earthen base: The plastering/rendering
mechanically adheres to a roughened or perforated earthen base. The
adhesion between the lime plastering/rendering and the earth can be
improved by means of a lime mortar slurry that is vigorously worked into
the presoaked lime base using the felted board. The plastering/rendering
is applied in two coats with a total thickness of around 15 mm. The
additional incorporation of a plaster/render reinforcement can increase
durability.
Lime plastering/rendering on plaster/render carriers: If visible
latticework is put in place despite heavy loading the mortar grain shall be
set in accordance with a suitable plaster/render carrier. In order to better
bind the plaster/render and the plaster/render base, a lime mortar slurry
may be worked in (see above). The plaster/render carrier and the fixing
agent must be weatherproof. Fixing takes place in the framework rather
than onto the beams. The additional incorporation of a plaster/render
reinforcement can increase durability.
Lime facing plaster/render on an earthen base: Where loads are small
or where a plastering/rendering system on site has proved its durability, an
earthen base and a lime plaster/render of around 5 mm can be used. For
the plastering/rendering base and facing plaster/render, fibrereinforced
mortars are recommended. The earthen base is suited to roughening. For
preparation purposes, a lime mortar slurry can be worked in (see above).
4.6 Rammed earth floors
In order to produce rammed earth floors, rammed earth is added in layers
compacted by means of vibration, ramming or beating.
The structure and surface properties of rammed earth floors shall be in
accordance with the substructure and the planned use. The individual
layers can be installed once the formation of shrinkage cracks in the layer
beneath has been completed. It is not necessary to await compete drying
out.
In order to reduce the formation of cracks, rammed earth with a low
measure of shrinkage can be used, flat reinforcing fabrics can be
incorporated and use can be made of insulating edge props. Cracks in the
use surface can be closed by means of repressing. For a more highorder
use, the surface should be largely sealed off from rammed earth floors and
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be substantially free of cracks. Resistance to abrasion can be increased,
inter alia, by the use of oils and waxes. Such substances shall only be
applied once the entire installation has largely dried out. The addition of a
wax coating makes it possible to produce a wipeable surface.
4.7 Facings in dry construction
Definition
Facings in dry construction consist of clay panels that are nailed or
screwed to substructures. They are also applied as dry render to planar
bases.
Building material
Clay panels or light clay panels may be used.
Construction
The construction of facings for internal walls, ceilings and roofs and of
noisedampening facing formwork shall be executed as is usual in dry
construction and in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions.
The centre distance between substructures is generally 30 – 50 cm. The
panels shall be affixed as per the manufacturers’ instructions. For the
application of facings, the base must be sufficiently even, sturdy, dry and
free of dust. Finegrained, adhesive earthen mortars or adhesives are
suitable for applying clay panels. Absorbent bases shall be presoaked.
The manufacturers’ instructions shall be observed.
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4.8 Other components
4.8.1 Basement masonry walls and skirting
Definitions
Basement masonry walls means masonry below ground level or that has
no contact with the ground, excluding internal walls within basements.
The skirting is the area of a masonry wall exposed to splashwater.
Preclusion
Earthen building materials may not be used for foundations, basement
masonry walls and skirting masonry walls. Any parts of a basement storey
that have no contact with the soil may not be manufactured of loadbearing
earthen building materials.
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5. SPECIFICATIONS FOR BUILDING MATERIALS
AND COMPONENTS
5.1 Particle density
Table 51
Dry particle density of earthen building materials
Building material Particle density
(kg/m³)
from to
Rammed earth 1700 2400
Cob 1400 1700
Fibrous clay/clay straw 1200 1700
Light clay 300 1200
Earth fillings 300 2200
Earth blocks 600 2200
Clay panels 300 1800
Earth mortars 600 1800
5.2 Strength
5.2.1 Compressive strength
The compressive strength of the building material is determined on the
basis of the materialspecific compressive strength tests (cf. 3 Earthen
building materials). The following table contains average values
determined by experiment.
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5. Specifications for building materials and components
Table 52
Compressive strength of earthen building materials
Empirical data
Building material Particle density Compressive strength
(kg/m³) (N/mm2)
Rammed earth with 2000 2200 3 5
mineral additive
Rammed earth with 1700 2000 2 3
fibrous additive
Cob 1400 1700 1
Earth blocks 1600 2200 2 4
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5.3 Heat
5.3.1 Thermal insulation
The following table sets out the calculated values for thermal conductivity.
Values that are more favourable must be demonstrated pursuant to
DIN 52611 or DIN 52612.
Table 53
Calculated values for the thermal conductivity of earthen building
materials 1)
Particle density Thermal conductivity
(kg/m³) λ R.(W/mK)
2200 1.40 2)
2000 1.10
1800 0.91
1600 0.73
1400 0.59
1200 0.47
1000 0.35
900 0.30
800 0.25
700 0.21
600 0.17
500 0.14
400 0.12 2)
300 0.10 2)
1)
Cf. DIN V 41084: 200202
2)
The values are derived from the least favourable data from the
literature and previous standards.
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5.3.2 Heat retention
The specific heat capacity c of earthen building materials depends on the
particle density, the nature and the proportion of additives. The following
table sets out calculated values.
T 54
Specific heat capacity c of earthen building materials (kJ/kgK)
Particle Additives, Additives,
density mineralbased organic
(kg/m³)
Sand, gravel, Straw Fine Wood
fibres chippings
≥1600 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
1400 1.0 1.0 1.1 1.1
1200 1.0 1.0 1.1 1.2
1000 1.0 1.1 1.1 1.3
800 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.4
600 1.0 1.1 1.3 1.5
400 1.2 1.4
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5.4 Moisture
5.4.1 Susceptibility to water and moisture
Unprotected components building with earth are susceptible to water. The
action of water, even over a brief period (heavy rain, burst pipes, floods),
can jeopardise stability.
Unprotected components built with earth are susceptible to moisture. The
sustained action of moisture (rising damp, roof damage) can lead to a
reduction in strength, the growth of mildew, the rotting of organic
constituents, the humification of the building material and the destruction of
the wooden structure. Delayed drying of building materials can also have
this effect.
Earthen building materials are not susceptible to the hygroscopic action of
moisture (sorption).
On the other hand, the water solubility of earth means that it can always
easily be reused in a new form and after sustained use.
5.4.2 Diffusion of vapour
Table 55
Standard values for the water vapour diffusion resistance factor µ of
earthen building materials
Particle density µ
(kg/m³) ()
from to
300 2200 5/10
5.4.3 Moisture conductivity
Earthen building materials are finepored substances that are conductive of
moisture by capillary action and are capable of quickly transferring
moisture absorbed to the surface and then giving it off when such drying is
not hindered.
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5.4.4 Practical moisture content
Practical moisture content means the moisture content that is only
exceeded on rare occasions in the course of normal practical building
conditions.
5.4.5 Sorption
The hygroscopic moisture takeup by untreated earth surfaces is relatively
high (approximately equal to untreated softwood).
5.4.6 Drying
Moisture conductivity and diffusion capacity assist the drying of earthen
building materials.
The drying times of earthen building materials and components installed in
moist condition are codetermined by the following factors:
the time of year, weathering
the degree of moisture of installation
the thickness of layers and walls
the nature of permanent formwork
the positioning of the component (indoors/outdoors)
airing of the building
weatherproofing.
The drying times of blocks and panels are also dependent on their size,
their moisture at production and the drying conditions.
Components are regarded as sufficiently dry for further processing when
settling and shrinking have largely been concluded and the humification of
the organic components can be ruled out.
They are regarded as dry when they have attained the equalised
dampness of the earthen building material in question.
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5.5 Fire behaviour
5.5.1 Fire behaviour of earthen building materials
Earth with mineral additives is categorised in Building Materials Class A1
(noncombustible) under DIN 41024. Earthen building materials
specifically are not classified.
Table 58
Fire behaviour of earthen building materials
Collated from DIN and research results
Additive Required particle Classification
density for the
earthen building
material
(kg/m3)
Mineral 1) No requirement Noncombustible
Plantbased fibrous matter ≥1700 Noncombustible
“properly mixed in in
accordance with the norms
of building with earth”
Straw 3) >1200 Noncombustible
Straw 3) >600 Not easily
flammable
Wood chippings 3) >1400 Noncombustible
Wood chippings 3) >800 Not easily
flammable
Sawmill shavings 3) >1600 Noncombustible
Sawdust 3) >2000 Noncombustible
Hemp, flax shives 3) >600 Not easily
flammable
78
1)
Cf. DIN 41024: 199403
2)
Cf. DIN 18951 sheet 1: 195101
3)
According to research into evaluating the fire behaviour of earthen
building materials in the course of thesis work at the MFPA [the Materials
Research and Testing Body for the Construction Industry] in Leipzig,
Germany, pursuant to DIN 41021.
5.5.2 Fire behaviour of components built with earth
The following tables contain components using earthen building materials,
classified pursuant to DIN 41024 (1994) or previous standards.
Table 59
Fireresistance class of walls made of earthen building materials
Component Classification
Massive walls F 90 A
Massive earthen (Building Materials Class A)
walls of masonry or rammed earth of a thickness
of 24 cm 1)
79
Framed walls with filled framework F 30 B
Stipulations: wooden cross section of at least
100 x 100 mm in the case of singlesided or
at least 120 x 120 mm in the case of twosided
exposure to fire,
infill with puddle (clay straw infilling),
facing on at least one side (with 15 mm of
render/plaster, for example) 2)
1)
According to DIN V 18954: 1956
2)
Cf. DIN 41024 4.11: 199403, Section 4.11. Specifics on the
stipulations can be found here.
Table 510
Fireresistance class of wood joist ceilings with earthen building
materials
Component Classification
a) Wood joist ceiling with completely F 30 B to F 60 B
open wood joists exposed to fire on three
sides
Ceiling covering, for example of any given
thickness of earthen building materials,
depending on distance and cross section of
joists, formwork, structure of floor 1)
80
b) Wood joist ceiling with covered joists
Sound floor with puddle ≥ 60 mm
or crossbeams (strutting) with puddle,
depending on distance of joists, upper
formwork, lower facing 2)
a) Ceiling coverings F 30
(only in respect of fire exposure on the
surface)
Covering of ≥ 50 mm of earth 3)
Notes:
1)
Cf. DIN 41024 199403 (5.3.2) and Table 62. Specifics on the
stipulations can be found here.
2)
Cf. DIN 41024: 199403 (5.3.3) and Tables 56 and 63. Specifics on
the stipulations can be found here.
3)
Cf. DIN 41024: 197002 (4.2)
5.6 Noiseinsulating characteristics
The noiseinsulating characteristics of components are determined in
accordance with Supplemental Sheet 1 to DIN 4109 Sound insulation in
buildings (11/1989).
5.6.1 Dampening of airborne noise by walls
For the earthen building materials covered by the standard, given their
greater softness, at least the noiseinsulating characteristics equivalent to
those of porous concrete and lightweight aggregate concrete of the
corresponding particle density class can be assumed.
Skeletonbuilt walls with infill consisting of heavy building materials are not
covered by the standard.
5.6.2 Noiseinsulating characteristics of wood joist ceilings
For the earthen building materials covered by the standard, at least the
noiseinsulating characteristics corresponding to those of other bulk
building materials such as concrete slabs (cf. DIN 4109, Supplemental
Sheet 1, Table 34) can be assumed.
DIN 4109 (1962), Sheets 3 and 5 cover further ceiling structures.
81
5.7 Windproofness
Earthen building materials are regarded as windproof where the surface
has a density of 900 kg/m3 or above. Otherwise plastering on at least one
side is regarded as sufficient windproofing.
5.8 Durability
Wood and plantbased fibres enclosed by dry earth are durably protected.
With proper moistureproofing and normal building maintenance structures
built with earth can achieve extraordinarily long lifespans, as old structures
that are hundreds of years old demonstrate.
82
6. Terms of contract for earthen building services
6. TERMS OF CONTRACT FOR EARTHEN
BUILDING SERVICES
With reference to the delimitation of incidental services and special
services and to billing and billing units, the execution of various
components built with earth can be assigned to the following fields of
construction or rules under Part C of the German construction contract
procedures (German abbreviation: VOB):
Table 61
Assignment of fields of work with earth
4.1.3 Earth block walls Masonry work DIN 18330
4.1.4 Rammed earth Concrete and DIN 18331
walls reinforced concrete
works
4.1.5 Cob walls Masonry work DIN 18330
4.2 Vaulting Masonry work DIN 18330
4.3.1 Brick nogging for Masonry work DIN 18330
framed walls
4.3.2 Nonloadbearing Concrete and DIN 18331
rammed earth reinforced concrete
walls works
4.3.3 Nonloadbearing Masonry work DIN 18330
masonry
4.3.4 Light clay walls in Concrete and DIN 18331
damp installation reinforced concrete
works
4.3.5 Clay panel walls Masonry work DIN 18330
4.3.6 Stacked earth Masonry work DIN 18330
walls
4.3.7 Extruded walls Concrete and DIN 18331
reinforced concrete
works
4.3.8 Plastered Plaster and stucco DIN 18350
insulating boards works
4.4 Joist ceilings Masonry work DIN 18330
4.5 Plastering/renderin Plaster and stucco DIN 18350
g works
83
4.6 Rammed earth Floor screed works DIN 18353

floors
4.7 Facings in dry Dry construction DIN 18340
construction works
84
7. Standards
7. STANDARDS
7.1 Standards cited
DIN V 1051 Clay masonry units; Solid bricks and vertically perforated
bricks
DIN EN 9981 Specification for mortar for masonry Part 1: Rendering and
plastering mortar;
DIN EN 9982 Specification for mortar for masonry Part 2: Masonry
mortar;
DIN EN 10152 Methods of test for mortar for masonry Part 2: Bulk
sampling of mortars and preparation of test mortars
DIN EN 10153 Methods of test for mortar for masonry Part 3:
Determination of consistence of fresh mortar (by flow table)
Determination of flexural and compressive strength of hardened mortar
Determination of adhesive strength of hardened rendering and plastering
mortars on substrates
DIN 10531 Masonry; Part 1: Design and construction
DIN 1055100 Actions on structures: Basis of design, safety concept and
design rules
DIN 40221 (1969) Subsoil and groundwater; Classification and description
of soil and rock; borehole logging of soil and rock not involving continuous
core sample recovery
DIN 4102 Fire behaviour of building materials and components
DIN 4102 Fire behaviour of building materials and components, sheet 4
(2/1970)
DIN 4103 Lightweight partitions
DIN 4108 Thermal insulation and energy economy in buildings
85
DIN 4109 Sound insulation in buildings
DIN 4109 Sound insulation in buildings (1962)
DIN 4172 Modular coordination in building construction
DIN 181221 Soil, investigation and testing Consistency limits;
Determination of liquid limit and plastic limit
Determination of the shrinkage limit
Determination of grainsize distribution
DIN 18196 Earthworks and foundations; Soil classification for civil
engineering purposes
DIN V 18550 Plastering/rendering and plastering/rendering systems
Execution
DIN 52611 Determination of thermal resistance of building elements
DIN 52612 determination of thermal conductivity by means of the guarded
hot plate apparatus
German construction contract procedures (German abbreviation: VOB),
Part C
General technical terms of contract (German abbreviation: ATV) for
building works
DIN 18330 Masonry work
DIN 18331 Concrete and reinforced concrete works
DIN 18340 Dry construction works
DIN 18350 Plaster and stucco works
DIN 18353 Floor screed works
7.2 Former standards on building with earth
DIN 1169 Earth mortars for masonry and plastering/rendering (1947)
86
7. Standards
DIN 18951 Sheet 1 Structures built with earth, Regulations governing their
execution (1/51)
Sheet 2 ditto, Explanatory notes (1/51)
Prestandard DIN 18952 Sheet 1 Building earth, terms and definitions,
types (5/56)
Sheet 2 Inspection of building earth (10/56)
Prestandard DIN 18953 Building earth, components built with earth
Sheet 1 Use of building earth (5/56)
Sheet 2 Masoned earth walls (5/56)
Sheet 3 Rammed earth walls (5/56)
Sheet 4 Cob earth walls (5/56)
Sheet 5 Light clay walls in framing structures (5/56)
Sheet 6 Earthen floors (5/56)
Prestandard DIN 18954 Execution of structures built with earth, guidelines
(5/56)
Prestandard DIN 18955 Building earth, components built with earth,
protection from moisture (8/56)
Prestandard DIN 18956 Plastering/rendering on components built with
earth (8/56)
Prestandard DIN 18957 Earthen shingle roofs (8/56)
87
Lehmbau Regeln
8. KEYWORD INDEX
88
8. Keyword index
.Anfang Index.
abbreviations, 15 building earth, extraction, 4
abrasion resistance, 34, 62 building earth, inspection, 5
action of moisture, 76 building earth, organic constituents, 7
addition of water, 14 building earth, sampling, 8
additives, 14 building earth, suitability, 5, 6, 15
additives, declaration, 14 building maintenance, 82
adhesion of lime render, 49, 50 building mat class, fire protection, 78
adhesion of plaster to clay straw, 49 building material specifications, 72
adhesion of plaster to rammed earth, 45 building period, infill, 48
adhesion of plaster/render, 63 building period, light clay walls, 51
adhesion of plastering/rendering, 67 building period, loadbearing walls, 38
adhesion of render to masonry, 45 building period, vaults, 46
adhesive strength, earth mortars, 34 building site mortars, 34, 35
ageing, 4 building with earth, 1
airing, 77 canes, 48
alluvium, 3 capillary conductivity, 52
anchoring, loadbearing walls, 40 casebycase authorisation, XII
assignment of fields of work, work with ceiling reinforcement, 40
earth, 83 ceilings, 26
attachments in light clay, 53 ceilings with clay panels, 60
balldrop test, 6 centring strip, 43
ballforming test, 6 classification of building materials, 15
barrel vaults, 46 clay, 3, 9, 10
basement masonry walls, 71 clay grout, 53
basic tests,inspection of building earth, 5 clay minerals, 3, 15
billing, 83 clay panel ceilings, 60
binding strength, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 clay panels, 16, 32, 53
binding strength test, 8, 10 clay panels, facings, 70
block strength class, 29, 31, 32 clay straw, 15, 21, 49, 57
boulder clay, 3 clay straw daub, 49
brick production, 30 clay straw framework, repair, 49
brickwork using earth mortars, 33 clay straw plastering/rendering, 64
building earth, 3 clay vaults, 46
building earth, binding strength test, 8, coarse hay, 22
10 coarse sand, 6, 10
building earth, classification by binding coatings, 61
strength, 9 cob, 15, 19, 42, 45, 49
89
cob walls, 45 DIN 1169, 86
colour, building earth, 7 DIN 18122, 9
comb strokes, 49 DIN 18123, 10
combined masonry, 39 DIN 18196, 9
component specifications, 72 DIN 18951, X, 78, 87
COMPONENTS BUILT WITH EARTH, DIN 18951 to 57, 87
38 DIN 4022, 9
composition, earth plaster DIN 40221, 6, 7
mortars/rendering, 34 DIN 41024, 78, 80, 81
composition, earthen building materials, DIN 4103, 47
14 DIN 41084, XII
compression method, 30 DIN 52611, 74
compressive strength, 42, 46, 72 DIN 52612, 74
compressive strength of earth blocks, 31 DIN EN 9981, 61
compressive strength of earth mortars, DIN standards on building with earth, XII
34 DIN V 1051, 31
compressive strength of mortar, 42 DIN V 18550, 61
compressive strength testing of rammed DIN V 18952 sheet 2, 8
earth, 18 DIN V 18952, sheet 2, 12
compressive stresses, permissible, 42 DIN V 18954, 80
conductivity by capillary action, 76 DIN V 41084, 74
connecting strips, stacked walls, 54 direction for selfmanufacture, 2
consistency of mortar testing, 36 disposal of earthen building materials,
contaminant, 5 17
contamination, 15 distribution of grain sizes, 5
contents, declaration, 14 domes, 46
cracking, 14 door and window reveals, 44
cutting test, 6 dry construction, 70
dampening of airborne noise, 81 dry earth, 4
dampproof course, 39 dry particle density, 72
daub, 49 dry strength test, building earth, 6
declaration, 14 drying, 1, 76
density of additives, 22, 24 drying log, 66
deposition site, 8 drying of building materials, 76
designation of the building earth, 9 drying of structures, 51
determination of plasticity, 9 drying of the structures, 55, 66
diffusion, 76, 77 drying time, 77
diffusion of vapour, 76 dug earth, 4
DIN 10531, 47 dung, 34, 63
90
8. Keyword index
durability, 82 earthen plastering/rendering,
earth, 3 plastering/rendering systems, 64
earth block masonry, 42 earthen plastering/rendering, repair, 67
earth block masonry, nonloadbearing, earthen plastering/rendering,
50 requirements, 64
earth block use classes, 29 earthen plastering/rendering, sanded
earth block walls, 44 surfaces, 66
earth blocks, 16, 27, 42, 49 earthen plastering/rendering, shrinkage
earth blocks, strength class, 42 cracking, 64
earth blocks, use classes, 29 earthen plastering/rendering, stabilised,
earth bonding, 14 61
earth deposits, 3 earthen plastering/rendering, suitability,
earth filling, 16, 26 63
earth masonry mortars, 16, 33 earthen plastering/rendering, surface
earth mortar, 42, 56 treatment, 65
earth mortars, 16, 33, 50, 64 earthmoving and soil engineering, 9
earth mortars, abrasion resistance, 34 equalised dampness, 77
earth mortars, adhesive strength, 34 execution of construction, 1
earth mortars, compressive strength, 34 expanded clay, 24
earth plaster mortars/rendering, 16, 33, experience, 1, 5, 38
34 exterior rendering, 63, 67
earth shingling, XI exterior rendering for visible latticework,
earth spray mortars, 33 68
earthen building materials, 14 exterior rendering, framework render, 68
earthen building materials, exterior rendering, requirements, 62
abbreviations, 15 exterior walls, 40
earthen coating materials, 61 extruded walls, 54
earthen plastering/rendering, 61, 63 extrusion moulding method, 30
earthen plastering/rendering, adhesion extrusion technique, 54
to the base, 64 fabric, 67
earthen plastering/rendering, facings with clay panels, 70
application, 65 factory materials mortars, 35
earthen plastering/rendering, factorysupplied mortars, 35
compressive strength, 62 fat earth, 3, 9
earthen plastering/rendering, drying, 66 fibrous clay, 15, 21
earthen plastering/rendering, flaws, 64 fibrous clay plastering/rendering, 64
earthen plastering/rendering, further fibrous light clay, 16, 23
treatment, 66 filler framework, light clay walls, 51
fine sand, 6, 10
91
fire behaviour of components built with inserted ceilings, 58
earth, 79, 80 inspection methods, building earth, 5
fire behaviour of earthen building inspection of building earth, 5
materials, 78 installation moisture, 77
fireresistance class, 79, 80 insulating boards, plastered, 56
flooring, 59 interior plastering, 63, 67
floors made of rammed earth, 69 interior plastering, requirements, 62
format of earth blocks, 30, 31 interlocking, 40
formwork, inserted ceilings, 59 internal insulation consisting of plastered
formwork, light clay walls, 52 insulating boards, 56
formwork, rammed earth walls, 45 joint sealing, framework
framed walls, 48, 80 plastering/rendering, 68
framework plastering/rendering, joist ceilings, 57
plastering/rendering systems, 69 knife cut, 68
framework render, 68 labelling of clay panels, 33
friction test, 6 labelling of clay straw, 23
gable walls, 40 labelling of cob, 21
geotechnical tests, 8 labelling of earth blocks, 31
grain size distribution, 10 labelling of earth fillings, 27
grain size distribution line, 10 labelling of earth mortars, 36
gravel, 10 labelling of light clay, 26
green bricks, 30, 50 labelling of rammed earth, 19
groundmoist, 71 labelling, earthen building materials, 14
gypsum plaster, 67 laboratory tests, 6
hairline cracks in plastering/rendering, laboratory tests, building earth, 7, 8
62 lattice ceiling, 58
hardening of the plaster/render base, 63 lattice plaster ceiling, 58
heat retention, 75 lattice, earth extruded walls, 55
heavily salted, 4 Lehmstapelwände, 54
heavy rain, 48, 76 lifespan, 82
humification, 76 light clay, 16, 23
humus, 4, 7, 15 light clay ceilings, 58
imperviousness to wind, light clay walls, light clay panels, 32
52 light clay straw, 49, 57
inbound inspection, building earth, 5 light clay walls, 51
infill, 47, 48 light earth blocks, 27
initial inspection, 35 light earth masonry mortars, 33
inner shells made of light clay, 52 light earth mortars, 33
inner shells, masoned, 50 light earth plaster mortars/rendering, 33
92
8. Keyword index
lightweight additives, 24 method of plastering/rendering, 61
lime content, 7, 8 mildew, 76
lime exterior render, 68 mineral framework, 3, 5, 6, 10
lime mortar slurry, 66 mineral light clay, 16, 23
lime paints, 66 mineralbased additives, 14, 75
lime plaster, 66, 67 mineralbased light additives, 24
lime plastering/rendering, 69 minimum wall thickness, loadbearing
lime plastering/rendering on walls, 42
plaster/render carriers, 69 mixing of clay straw, 22
lime render adhesion, 45 mixing of cob, 20
lime/gypsum plaster, 67 mixing of earth fillings, 27
liquid limit, 9 mixing of earth mortars, 34
live load, 43 mixing of light clay, 24
loadbearing framework, light clay walls, mixing of rammed earth, 18
51 mixing ratios, 15
loadbearing walls, 39 moisture, 76
Loadbearing walls, 38 moisture conductivity, 76
loadbearing walls, repair, 46 moisture protection, nonloadbearing
loadbearing walls, requirements, 42 masonry, 50
loam paints, 66 moisture takeup, hygroscopic, 77
loessial soil, 4 moistureproofing, 1
machine spraying, 67 Moistureproofing, loadbearing walls, 39
manual moulding method, 29 mortar additives, earthen
manufacturers, 2 plastering/rendering, 63
marl, 3 mortar group, lime mortar, 42
masonry infill, 49 mortar group, lime mortars, 66, 67
masonry mortars, 33 mortar group, loadbearing walls, 42
masonry strength, 44 mortar strips, 45
masonry using earth mortars, 50 mould, earthen plastering/rendering, 66
masonry with earth mortar, 43 mould, light clay, 52
masonry, nonloadbearing, 50 mountain earth, 3
massive walls, 79 multicourse plastering/rendering, 65
material specifications, 72 noiseinsulating characteristics, 81
measure of shrinkage, 19, 42 noncombustible, 78
measure of shrinkage for earth mortars, nonloadbearing masonry, 50
36 nonloadbearing rammed earth walls, 50
mechanical drying of structures, 53 nonloadbearing walls, 47
method of manufacture for earth blocks, not easily flammable, 78
31 openings, 40
93
Order on building with earth, X primers, 63
organic additives, 14, 75 production control, 35
other components, 71 production processes for earth blocks,
paints on earthen plastering/rendering, 29
66 proof in respect of loadbearing walls, 42
partial safety factors, 38 proportion of clay, 3
particle density, 72 protection against collapse, 51
permanent formwork, 52, 58, 77 protection against weather, 39, 47, 48
permissible compressive stresses, 42 puddle, 80, 81
pillar, 38 pumice, 24
planning of construction, 1 rain protection, 39
plantbased additives, 14 rammed earth, 15, 17, 42
plaster base, 52 rammed earth floor, 17
plaster mortars/rendering, 33 rammed earth floors, 69
plaster mortars/rendering on earthen rammed earth walls, 45, 50
bases, 67 recycled mortars, 35
plaster/render base, 61, 65 recycling earth, 4
plaster/render carriers, 63, 67 reed tissue, 52
plaster/render layer, 61 reinforcement, 40
plastering/rendering, 61 reinforcement for plastering/rendering,
plastering/rendering adhesion, 62 68
plastering/rendering cracks, 62 reinforcement of clay panels, 60
plastering/rendering on earthen bases, reinforcing fabric, 65
61 reinforcing fillers in rammed earth walls,
plastering/rendering system, 61 45
plastering/rendering systems for reinforcing transverse walls, 44
framework plastering/rendering, 69 repair, clay straw framework, 49
plastering/rendering, guidelines for repair, loadbearing earth walls, 46
planning, 61 reprepared, 22
plastering/rendering, loading, 68 resistance to abrasion, 14
plastering/rendering, requirements, 62 resistance to pressure, 14
plastic characteristics, 9 reuse, 17
plasticity, 3, 5 reuseability, 76
plasticity index, 9 reveals, 44
powdered clay, 4 ring beams, 40
practical moisture content, 77 Ringbalken, 43
preparation of earthen building rolled ceilings, 57
materials, 14 rolled struts, 49
prestandards for building with earth, X roof slope, 60
94
8. Keyword index
rotting, 76 sprayed earth mortars, 16
rules of thumb, 15 sprayed light earth mortars, 33
safety factor, 38 stabilised earthen building materials, 1
salt, 35 stabilised earthen plastering/rendering,
salt contamination, 17, 46 61
sampling, plaster mortars/rendering, 35, stability, 40, 76
64 stacked earth walls, 54
sedimentation, 10 stacking technique, 54
selfexecution, 1 standards, 85
services, delimitation in accordance with stone strength class, 42
VOB, 83 stony earth, 17
settlement, 39, 44, 45, 68 storey heights, 39, 43
shrinkage, 14 straw, 22, 24
shrinkage cracking, 34 straw light clay, 16, 23
sieving, 10 strength class of earth blocks, 29, 31, 32
silt, 6, 10 strut ceilings, 57
silty, 6 struts, 48, 49, 57
singlecourse earthen Strutting with daub, 49
plastering/rendering, 65 sturdiness plastering/rendering, 61
skilled worker, 1 sturdiness, plastering/rendering, 62
skilled workers, 38, 46 supports, 40
skirting, 71 surface work, plastering/rendering, 61
skirting projections, 39 susceptibility to moisture, 76
slenderness, 50 susceptibility to water, 14, 76
slope wash, 3 swelling behaviour, 30
slump, mortar, 36 swelling behaviour, earth blocks, 29, 30
slump, slurry, 25 tensile strength, 14
slurry, 25 tensile test, 8, 11
slurry consistency, light clay, 25 tension rods, 40
smell test, building earth, 7 TERMS OF CONTRACT FOR earthen
soaking of the base, 67 building SERVICES, 83
soapy, 6 test consistency, 8, 11
soil moisture, 50, 52 test methods, building earth, 8
sorption, 76, 77 testing of clay panels, 33
specific heat capacity c, 75 testing of clay straw, 22
splashwater, 71 testing of cob, 20
spray mortars, 33 testing of earth blocks, 30
spray rendering, 63 testing of earth fillings, 27
spray water, 39, 50 testing of earth mortars, 36
95
testing of light clay, 25 wall ties, 40
testing rammed earth, 18 wallmounted heating systems with
thermal conduction figures, XII earthen plastering/rendering, 65
thermal conductivity, 74 wallpaper on earthen plaster, 64
thermal insulation, 14, 74 wallpaper on earthen
thermal insulation sheets, plastered, 56 plastering/rendering, 66
thin coatings, 61 walls, nonloadbearing, 47
thin earth, 3, 9 water solubility, 76
thincourse plastering/rendering, 65 waterproof layer, 39, 50
tiling on earthen plastering/rendering, 64 wattle and daub, 48
timber joist ceilings, 57 weathering, 4
time to dry, 1 weatherproofing, 1, 77
transverse walls, 44 whey, 34
triangular battens, 49 wickerwork, 48
trowel cut, 68 windproofness, 82
trowelready, 34 wood chippings, 24, 75
types of earth, 3 wood joist ceilings, 80
use classes for earth blocks, 30 wood joist ceilings, noiseinsulating
use of earthen building materials, 16 characteristics, 81
Vaulting, 46 wood light clay, 16, 23, 24
VOB Part C, 83 work with earth, 83
wall thickness, 77 working formword, 58
wall thickness, light clay, 52 working formwork, 52
wall thickness, loadbearing walls, 42, works management, 38, 46
44 woven reeds, 52
.End Index.
96
Project participants
PROJECT PARTICIPANTS
A project by the German Association for Building with Earth, Weimar
(Eds.),
supported by funding from the Federal Foundation for the Environment
(DBU), Osnabrück.
Authors
Dipl.Ing. Franz Volhard, Architect BDA (German Association of
Architects), Darmstadt
Dipl.Ing. Ulrich Röhlen, CLAYTEC e.K., Viersen
With the collaboration of
Dr.Ing. Christof Ziegert, ZRS Architekten Ingenieure, Berlin
Working group
Prof. Dr.Ing. Klaus Dierks, Institute for Design, Construction, the Building
Industry and Building Law, Berlin Technical University
Dipl.Ing. Stephan Jörchel, Ingenieurbüro S. Jörchel, Weimar
Dipl.Ing. Ulrich Röhlen, CLAYTEC e.K., Viersen
Dr.Ing. Horst Schroeder, Bauhaus University Weimar
Dipl.Ing. Franz Volhard, Architect BDA (German Association of
Architects), Darmstadt
Dr.Ing. Christof Ziegert, ZRS Architekten Ingenieure, Berlin
Project management
Dr.Ing. Horst Schroeder, Bauhaus University Weimar
97
Contributors to previous editions
Working group
Peter Breidenbach, Manfred Drach, Dr.Ing. Thomas Kleespies, Heiner
Lippe, Günter zur Nieden, Anke Richter, Ulrich Röhlen, Dr.Ing. Horst
Schroeder, Prof Heinz G. Sieber, Franz Volhard
Subjectmatter expertise and advice
Eckhard Beuchel, Sven Börjesson, Martin Breidenbach, Dr.Ing. Heinrich
Bruckner, Hugo Houben, Irmela Fromme, Veit Mach, Dr.Ing. HansUlrich
Rönn, Burkard Rüger, JensUwe Schulz, Helmut Zeitter, Christof Ziegert
Contributions to discussions
Franz Bauer, W. Ehrich, Waldemar Eider, Bernhard Gaul, Alwine
Gillessen, Carl Giskes, Karin Halbritter, Stephan Jörchel, Khudadad
Khademi, Andreas Krewet, Tomas Lemcke, Prof. Dr.Ing. Gernot Minke,
Johannes Paulus Lehmann, Michael Nothelfer, Guido Röber, Reinhold
Rönz, Sascha Rummel, Georgios Schade, Frank Schneider, JensUwe
Schulz, Prof. Dr.Ing. Jörg Schulze, Ingolf Stein, Ziegelei Ott
98

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4.6 Rammed earth Floor screed works DIN 18353

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