by Athena and Bill Steen - Cohabitat

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CONTENTS Introduction Preparing the Base Waterproofing and Drainage Insulation The Sub Floor Finding a Soil Mix for the Finished Floor Installing the Finished Floor Method 1 Method! Method 3 Dividing with a Wooden Grid Stabilizing Earthen Floor Mixes Surface Hardeners and Sealents Floor Sealing Sequence Maintenance and Repairs Earthen Floors for Upper Stories Taylor Publishing tms@northcoast.com www.dirtcheapbuilder.com 707-441-1632 PO Box 375 Cutten CA 95534 USA
Earthen Floors an introduction Earthen floors are one of the oldest flooring method used throughout the world in many climates and conditions. They have ranged from basic dirt, hardened and "sealed" from years of use, to elaborate clay mixtures poured in place, leveled, and highly polished. Because of their natural warmth, softness, and brcatliability, earthen floors make very comfortable living surfaces. Since local clay/soils can often be used and specialized labor is not required, earthen floors can be inexpensive More forgiving than brick, tile or concrete, they are easier to install, or repair. Well built floors can be quite durable even under high traffic. Once sealed, they can be swept, mopped or waxed the same as other floors. Earthen floors can be finished to look as one likes; smooth and shiny or more "earthy" - slightly matted and textured with flecks of straw. Wood can be placed into the floor to create a grid-like pattern, or the surface can be scored to look like tile. Different colored clays can be added to vary the color. Earthen floors can also be used as sub-flooring for coverings such as tile or carpet, and can be installed directly over existing concrete slabs. One of the most beautiful things about earthen floors, is that there is no one way of constructing one. Formulas for constructing earthen floors vary according to available materials, cultural traditions, climatic conditions and individual preferences. This booklet covens a few formulas that we have worked with succesfully. With some experimentation, testing and a basic understanding of the general principles, it will be possible to create your own earthen floor, that will be long-lasting, natural and beautiful.
Page 1: y Athena and Bill Steen illustratio
Page 5 and 6: Insulation For insulation, 4 to 6 i
Page 7 and 8: Mixing Test Samples for Finished Fl
Page 9 and 10: Applying the floor mixture is most
Page 11 and 12: The second layer Optimally; the sec
Page 13 and 14: Earthen floors can be divided with
Page 15 and 16: Periodic Applications of Coat 4" ca
Page 17 and 18: Yavapai Sports Surfaces P.O. BOx 17

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