Definition: Rammed earth construction resembles adobe construction. Both use soil mixed with waterproofing adatives. However, even with the waterproofing additives, adobe requires dry weather so that the bricks can harden enough to build walls. In rainy parts of the world, builders developed "rammed earth" construction. A mixture of soil and cement are compacted into forms. Later, the forms are removed and solid earth walls remain.
Rammed earth buildings are environmentally-friendly and fire and termite resistant. Some modern-day designers also say that the thick earthen walls create a sense of solidity and security.
Also Known As: In various parts of the world, the terms Pisé, Jacal, and Barjareque also describe forms of earth construction similar to rammed earth.
