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Earth Bag Weight?

 
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Location: Ontario
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Hello, I am seeking some options for inexpensive earth bags. I found some poly woven bags in various sizes. What would be the ideal filled weight for the bags, in terms of structural integrity of the building? I would like to know if the integrity of the building will be negatively effected, when using filled bags that are heavier vs. lighter.


 
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We did a few test bags to see if this would work for us as a building type.
We used empty hog feed bags (woven poly) that hold 50 lbs. of feed.
When filled so they would hold their shape after tamping, these bags held 100 lbs.
A little to much for my 64 year old body when building a wall so that turned us away from using them for our house.

We are going to use them for the above ground portion of our root cellar/ storm shelter though, we will be able to fill them in the spot they will end up.
 
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For the main run of the wall just fill them full, (no packing) lay them in place and tamp down. The width of the bag will stop you from going too flat. Corners and door/window casings should be filled the same but then packed tight before laying, then just tamp down as usual.

Check out Earthbag Building: The Tools, Tricks and Techniques (Natural Building Series) by Kaki Hunter. Awesome book with everything you need and a few laughs along the way $18 on amazon and also available for Kindle
 
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