Tires and concrete building.

Many,many moons ago, a life far away, I was in small town near Cripple Creek, Colorado and visiting a house built into the side of a hill. I was told it was built with old tires with concrete poured in them. I think this is correct? Does anyone know about this type of construction? Enlight me... and if you know about the house I speak of...do tell.

This type of building is called an earthship. earthship.org

The main idea is that the tyres are filled with the subsoil that you have. The soil is 'rammed' (as in rammed earth building) into the tyres. Other waste materials are, or were historically, used in the build materials. (such as aluminium cans, which can now be recycled).

You may want to check out other eco (or more eco) build methods such as rammed earth and earthbag.

I know about earthship building but I was told the tires were filled with concrete rather than earth. Does that sound right?

Why would a person use concrete?
To reduce on labour time and effort? Then why use tyres if you are going to use concrete? Why just not formers? Unless this wasn't an option.

I thought the purpose of using tyres was to be more eco friendly. Concrete is far from that. Seems self defeating.

I don't know the answer to your question then. (did do a quick google but obviously you have as well. Came up with nothing).

Thank you Abby, yes I did a google search as well. You made a good point. The shelter i speak of was near cripple creek,co and it was almost 20yrs ago so my memory is not that good.lol