Cob in tropical regions - good idea or termite heaven?

Hi there,

I've setup a compost toilet/shower room (outhouse style) in the tropics of West Africa. (See photo attached)

As beautiful and majestic as the brick wall the toilet is up against truly is, I am considering plastering it with cob and giving the toilet/shower area a more warm feel. Our region is rich in termites, so I'm wondering if cob is a bad idea? Alternatively, I could get access to some red sand rich in clay and mix a little cement in there to plaster the walls and still have a earth colour.

I have zero experience with cob.

Any feedback is appreciated!

Short answer: don't even think about it.

Long answer: cob is usually ideal in Africa, even with termites. Sure, they dig through it, but they don't damage it. They're just kind of there. I know cob houses that are still standing after 40 years. So why do I advise against it? Because you're roof is built with lumber! Currently it is "safe" because the termites can't got up your concrete wall. But if you plaster it with cob then you have created a termite highway straight to dinner.

I would recommend plastering it with lime plaster. Mix one bucket of lime with 4 wheelbarrows of sand. Keep it moist for a few days,  and have fun plastering! It's such a satisfying material to work with; you can sculpt designs in it,  add pigment for color variation-- you can do a fresco!!

That makes a lot of sense! Thanks for your feedback