How Earth Sheltering Works

Earth sheltering is an ancient and time honored technique for moderating the temperature of a house or other structure without any external energy.  It has been used for thousands of years across many cultures starting all the way back with humans who  lived in caves.  To the right can see a picture of sod houses built in Iceland by some of the early settlers.  They not only needed to build out of sod due to the climate of Iceland but also because it was one of the few available resources to build with.

They work off of the very simple fact that the soil maintains a certain temperature year round despite how cold or warm the air outside.  This can offer you tremendous advantages when it comes to keeping your home comfortable for no extra cost in money or energy.  

The diagram below illustrates what I am talking about about the soil maintaining a steady temperature.  Not only do you get the climate control benefits but having a earth sheltered house can protect your home from storms and other forces that nature can throw at you.  You home will also be quieter and burying your home in the earth could be a great way to escape city noise.   

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