What Are Earth-Sheltered Homes?

According to "Mother Earth News," earth-sheltered homes rose in popularity during the 1970s, due in part to the 1973 oil embargo. Today, these structures continue to provide energy-saving benefits to their owners.

Definition

The Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy and Sustainable Living defines an earth-sheltered home as "a dwelling that is partially or totally underground or that has earth berms around some or all of its exterior walls."

Types

There are two basic types of earth homes, houses that are constructed underground and those of the bermed variety. The latter are constructed above ground with earth embanked against their walls.

Benefits

Since these houses are not exposed to outdoor weather extremes, temperatures inside remain more stable. According to the Mortgage Guide 101 blog, earth-sheltered homes can save their occupants up to 85 percent of fossil-fuel use for heating and cooling.

Disadvantages

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the cost of building an earth-sheltered home may cost 20 percent more than building an ordinary house. In addition, care must be exercised in order to avoid moisture problems during construction and the lifespan of the home.

Features

Earth-sheltered homes come in various designs, which include entrance courtyards or bermed structures with glass that face south. Others are partially above ground with bermed exterior walls.

References

• Mother Earth News: Earth-sheltered Homes
• Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy and Sustainable Living: Earth-sheltered Home
• U.S. Department of Energy: Earth-Sheltered Houses

Resources

• Mortgage Guide 101 Blog: Going Green: The Earth Sheltered Home