Yesterday’s Wisdom, Today’s Comfort: The Allure of the Earth Block House

The timeline for construction can vary based on the complexity of the design and local regulations. On average, a compressed earth block home may take several months to a year (or more) to complete.

While initial building costs for compressed earth block homes can be around 15% higher than building with conventional materials, primarily due to labor rather than material costs, the long-term savings in energy efficiency and maintenance often make CEB homes more cost-effective over time.

Compressed earth block homes are low maintenance. Regular inspections, repairs and occasional plaster restoration can keep them in excellent condition.

Compressed earth blocks can be adapted for various climates, but local climate conditions may influence design choices. We consider these factors in the design process to optimize performance.

Yes, compressed earth blocks are both safe and highly durable, with modern engineering ensuring they meet or exceed building codes. They offer excellent fire and wind resistance, and their thermal mass helps regulate indoor temperatures. While CEBs are a traditional material, today's technology allows for precise block production and greater strength, ensuring that when properly constructed, they easily meet modern safety and durability standards.

Not always. While some soils can be used, the ideal soil for pressed earth blocks must be free of organic matter and have the right mix of sand and clay. In many cases, overburden fines from local quarries are used instead.

Compressed earth blocks are becoming more widely available as earth block presses grow in popularity. Companies like AECT (Advanced Earthen Construction Technologies), based in Central Texas, manufacture machines that can produce blocks either on-site or semi-locally. Many people purchase machines to become local suppliers, making CEBs more accessible in certain regions.

Permit requirements depend on your location. In some areas, a building permit is required, while in unincorporated regions, it may not be necessary. Where required, I’ve never encountered any issues obtaining permits for earth block homes, thanks to close collaboration with engineers. Whether a permit is needed or not, I always recommend including engineer-stamped structural drawings as part of your design package to ensure safety and code compliance.

This answer is so long it warrants it's own page! Please visit Earth Block Codes and Standards for more information.

The cost of custom home design varies depending on the size and complexity of the project. For a full custom home design of a compact and efficient living space, fees may start at around $7,500, which includes everything from initial concept development to detailed construction documentation. Smaller scope projects or specific design phases may cost less, while larger or more intricate projects can take more time and investment. Each project is unique, so I work closely with clients to create a design package that fits their specific needs.

I hold a Master of Architecture from an accredited university and am an AIA associate, with my licensure process currently on hold. My focus has been on working independently and learning directly from experienced builders who specialize in earth block construction. This hands-on approach has allowed me to develop deep expertise in this unique building method. While I may pursue licensure in the future, my current priority is delivering custom designs that meet my clients' needs.

Absolutely! If earth block isn't quite what you're looking for, I also design conventional wood frame homes. I still focus on using earth-friendly materials and energy-efficient design practices, so you can have a beautiful, sustainable home that fits your needs. Whether you're leaning toward earth block or wood frame, I'm here to help bring your vision to life!

I’m open to working with a variety of natural building methods. These include, but are not limited to, hempcrete, cob, strawbale, adobe, rammed earth, and light straw clay. If you have another natural material in mind or are curious about alternative methods, feel free to reach out. I’d love to explore how we can incorporate these eco-friendly materials into your project.

Currently, I primarily focus on projects in North Texas and surrounding areas, but I’m able to work anywhere in the U.S. as long as we collaborate with a locally licensed engineer. I’ve successfully worked on projects in states like Colorado, Utah, and Montana, and I’ve also had the opportunity to work internationally, including a project in Haiti. Let’s chat about your location, and we’ll make sure to cover the necessary requirements for your area!

To begin, simply reach out via our contact form or email Beth@HurtadoHomesLLC.com so we can schedule a consultation to discuss your vision and explore how we can bring it to life.