How were materials chosen?
Every effort has been made to use natural, traditional materials to their full potential. The use of standard off-the-shelf materials and products has been balanced with the benefits of ease of construction, cost effectiveness and reliable performance. The single storey, modular layout of the houses with repeating units allows for constant spans and economies of scale for fitments such as doors and windows. Key factors: • Physical properties including high thermal performance. • Minimal embodied energy balanced by long-term energy savings. • Minimization of environmental and health hazards by use of non-toxic products and materials. • Minimal impact on land and resources. • Environmental policies of manufacturers. • Readily available, low to medium technology materials. • Local supplies where possible to minimize transport energy. For more detail see HHP Technical Factsheet 2 – TF2: Choice of Materials (In construction). Copies can be purchased via the Shop.
