Thermal Performance
THE THERMAL PERFORMANCE of an earthen structure offers a level of comfort expressed by a long history of worldwide experience. Earthen walls function as an absorbent mass that are able to store warmth or coolness and re-radiate it back into the living space as it is needed. Over fifty percent of the current world population lives in earthen dwellings from climates as diverse as Asia, Europe, Africa and the U.S., with a strong resurgence in Australia. Berming this structure in the hot Arizona desert will keep it cool in the summer, while nestling it into a south-facing hillside in Vermont will help keep it warm in the winter.