Are cob buildings more prone to structural failure than other types of traditional construction?
A. Cob buildings are not more prone to structural failure unless they are misunderstood and in consequence not looked after properly. Because they are susceptible to the effects of excessive moisture, it is essential to ensure that correct finishes are used, as when cement rich renders are applied, rising dampness can be driven into the base of the cob, especially where the plinth is low and sheer failures may then occur as the cob becomes saturated and loses its coherence. Again, when gutters and downpipes are not maintained and water flushes down cement-rich renders, penetrating cracks, moisture is trapped and failures occur.
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