Earth Sheltered Home Plans Designs

Earth Sheltered Home Plans Designs: A Comprehensive Guide

Earth sheltered homes, also known as earth bermed homes or underground homes, are residences that are partially or completely covered by soil. These homes offer a variety of advantages over traditional above-ground homes, including energy efficiency, natural temperature control, and protection from extreme weather. ### Advantages of Earth Sheltered Homes

Energy Efficiency:

Earth sheltered homes are naturally insulated by the soil that surrounds them, which helps to reduce energy costs. In the winter, the soil helps to keep the home warm, while in the summer, it helps to keep the home cool. This can lead to significant savings on heating and cooling costs.

Natural Temperature Control:

The soil surrounding an earth sheltered home acts as a natural thermal buffer, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the home. This can be especially beneficial in areas with extreme climates.

Protection from Extreme Weather:

Earth sheltered homes are well-protected from extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes. The soil covering the home helps to absorb the impact of these events, and the home is less likely to be damaged.

Lower Maintenance Costs:

Earth sheltered homes typically have lower maintenance costs than traditional above-ground homes. This is because the soil helps to protect the home from the elements, and the home is less likely to experience damage from pests or rot. ### Disadvantages of Earth Sheltered Homes

Higher Initial Cost:

Earth sheltered homes typically have a higher initial cost than traditional above-ground homes. This is because of the additional cost of excavating the soil and building the home underground.

Less Natural Light:

Earth sheltered homes can have less natural light than traditional above-ground homes. This is because the soil covering the home blocks out some of the sunlight. However, there are a number of ways to increase the amount of natural light in an earth sheltered home, such as by using skylights or light tubes.

Potential for Moisture Problems:

Earth sheltered homes can be prone to moisture problems, such as leaks and mold. This is because the soil surrounding the home can trap moisture. However, there are a number of ways to prevent moisture problems in an earth sheltered home, such as by using proper drainage and waterproofing systems. ### Earth Sheltered Home Plans and Designs There are a variety of earth sheltered home plans and designs available. Some of the most popular designs include:

Bermed Homes:

Bermed homes are the most common type of earth sheltered home. These homes are partially covered by soil, with the front of the home exposed. Bermed homes can be built on a variety of slopes, and they offer a good balance of energy efficiency and natural light.

Underground Homes:

Underground homes are completely covered by soil, with only the roof of the home exposed. Underground homes offer the best energy efficiency and protection from extreme weather. However, they can also be more expensive to build and can have less natural light.

Hybrid Homes:

Hybrid homes are a combination of bermed and underground homes. These homes are partially covered by soil, but they also have some above-ground living space. Hybrid homes offer a good balance of energy efficiency, natural light, and cost. ### Conclusion Earth sheltered homes offer a number of advantages over traditional above-ground homes, including energy efficiency, natural temperature control, and protection from extreme weather. However, these homes also have some disadvantages, such as a higher initial cost and less natural light. If you are considering building an earth sheltered home, it is important to carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.