Won’t cob structures melt in the rain?
Cob is incredibly resilient, and even if it is left exposed out in the rain, for years on end. But eventually, without any protective layer, it will deteriorate, returning to the earth. So in order to keep the cob intact, we give it “good boots and a good hat” — a stone plinth foundation layer that raises the cob above the ground level, and a roof that overhangs the cob wall by a foot or more. In very rainy areas with horizontal winds, some people apply a layer of natural lime plaster for extra protection.
