The Parts of an Adobe House

Foundation

• Any housing structure must start with a solid foundation. For adobe houses, the foundation is packed soil. Green building experts suggest a foundation of at least 8 inches for a one-story adobe house. However, this should be increased if the geographical area experiences frost. A compacted soil foundation will present a solid footing for the brick walls and prevent cracking as time goes on.

Walls

• The walls of an adobe home are built with the structure's namesake: adobe bricks. These bricks are made from a mixture of water, soil, clay and straw -- and sometimes other reinforcing materials such as sand or cement. These bricks are shaped by molds or by machine and allowed to dry in the sun. The bricks are then stacked and held together with mortar. Spaces are left for doors and windows. Adobe brick is very heavy, so these housing structures can last for centuries.

Doors, Windows and Lintels

• As the adobe bricks are stacked, openings will be left for windows and doors according to the specific house's floor plan. The doors and windows are framed out with lintels, or wooden frames that will support the openings. Lintels can also be made of metal or cement. Some adobe houses may call for more fancy features than others, such as arches in hallways or bowed windows and doorways.

Roofs and Beams

• The roofs of adobe houses are made of a wooden frame stretching across the walls of the house, intersecting with support beams (vigas) and one main support beam. A metal fencing is traditionally placed over the roof beams, with adobe bricks placed atop. The roof can also be made of metal. Sometimes the roof is steeped, and other times it is flat. If the house features a fireplace, the roof will also include a chimney. Drainage features are also built into the roof.

Insulation

• Adobe is naturally a good thermal mass material, and houses retain heat and cool air well when heated in cool weather and ventilated in warm weather. However, most adobe homes require insulation for more comfortable living. This can be done by building double walls with air space or insulation material in between, much like a traditional home.

Finishing Touches

• The exterior of adobe homes is usually stuccoed. The interiors are either stuccoed or plastered and painted. Many adobe home feature a clay floor, polished with oil. The exterior touches often include patios. Some home features stonework inside, while others feature wooden finishes. Most adobe homes are equipped with plumbing and electricity, and some are built with intentions to be off the grid.