I'm building a 2200 sf home near the coast of Maine, two stories, about 500 sf of glazing to the south. I can apply stucco and plaster to directly, avoiding additional steps/cost. will provide greatest insulation bang for the buck, and 3. as a skilled owner-builder I can stack myself, 2. With its insulative qualities, I would think that AAC would indeed be a good choice. They claim that it does not wick moisture, but as a precaution, I would suggest using an additional moisture barrier in any bermed locations. Q: Would AAC be applicable for earth sheltered construction?Ī: (Kelly) I see no reason why not to use AAC for earth-sheltered construction. My recommendation would be to go with the thickest walls that you can afford for maximum R-value. I have known people who built their homes with AAC at over 8000 feet in the Colorado mountains who were quite happy with the comfort of their homes. Some even claim that it serves as thermal mass as well. Can you offer any advice, or a non-biased resource?Ī: I also have heard conflicting opinions about the insulative value of this material. I have been finding conflicting advice about the insulative properties of this material for use in cold climates. Q: I am going to build a small (1000 sf) passive solar home in up-state new york, and I am considering autoclaved aerated concrete. Nabil Taha and his engineering firm see Questions and Answers Taha's goal is to continue to grow and provide knowledge and services for those trying to make their dream project a reality.
He loves to share his knowledge and offers educational seminars and trainings for the do-it-yourselfers and professionals alike. He is Licensed in twenty three states and can design buildings and/or consult to assist with structural permitting in these states as well as internationally. Taha is dedicated to future sustainability through innovation he creates solutions for beautiful sustainable and safe structures by melding old and new technologies. His focus is on green design and he is always willing to trying something new. He has structural expertise in a wide range of building systems and can answer questions related to virtually any common building method. Prior to opening his own engineering firm in Oregon in 1997, he was a Professor of Engineering at Northern Montana State University and at Oregon Institute of Technology. Nabil Taha has over 27 years of structural engineering experience. Issues with Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (AAC)ĭr.