Traditional Roof Construction
In this 4-day workshop you will learn:
- Hip and gable framing, sheathing and trimming
- Rafter layout & cutting; roof math
- Thermal performance & rainwater catchment
Roof Structures: Perhaps one of the most distinguishing visual characteristics of an EcoNest is the umbrella-like roof structure that crowns the building. This is truly an example of form following function. The roof protects the natural wall system, provides shade and collects water while gracefully connecting the structure to the landscape. Students will learn how to build the unique EcoNest roof system. Interior Walls: Students learn about the three types of interior walls in an EcoNest: Standard 2x frame walls for running electrical and plumbing utilities, earthen mass walls for moderating indoor temperature and humidity and pocket walls for housing retractable shoji screens. Open-Built® Framing: Open-built framing is an approach to building that recognizes that a structure must be designed to be flexible and adaptable to ensure a long and useful life. A major consideration is running all utilities so that they are easily accessible. Students will learn this practical approach to planning for the future. Utilities: Students learn how to work with an electrician and plumber to install utilities in the EcoNest shell. Students will also learn how to integrate sustainable water use, waste and energy technologies. Natural Building Science III: Much discussion amongst building scientists in North America has been about the theory of the movement of vapor through walls and how to prevent condensation from occurring within the wall cavity. Almost all construction and subsequent theory is based on the stud construction and mechanical HVAC systems. The EcoNest, with its massive, vapor-diffusible walls and natural systems of heating, cooling and ventilating cannot be properly understood in terms of current North American building science theory. Students will learn about "Bau-Biologie", or building biology, the building science developed in Germany that explains the theory and practice of natural building systems. This background is important in terms of understanding and maintaining a natural home. It is also necessary background for anyone who will become a spokesperson for the natural building movement and who will be working with code officials and building inspectors. Thermal Performance: Achieving the goal of the carbon neutral home requires, first and foremost, designing, building and detailing a home so that it requires very little energy to operate. Solar orientation, natural protection from the elements, air barriers and insulation all play a key role in a building's performance. Students learn strategies for creating an energy-efficient home and how these strategies are applied in EcoNest building. Rainwater Catchment: EcoNest roofs are designed to capture millions of gallons of water over the life of the home. Students learn how to turn a roof into a water harvesting system by using specific design and construction practices for gutters, protecting gutters from ice and snow damage, utilizing downspouts and rain chains, sizing and placing cisterns, as well as handling overflow protection.