Introduction
Building a yurt using papercrete is an innovative and eco-friendly approach to emergency preparedness. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a sturdy, weather-resistant yurt using papercrete blocks. The material is lightweight, insulating, and cost-effective, making it an ideal choice for those looking to build a sustainable shelter.
Preparing the Papercrete Mixture
To start, you’ll need to prepare the papercrete mixture. Begin by shredding paper or cardboard into small pieces. The ideal ratio for the mixture is 3 parts paper to 1 part water to 1 part cement by weight. For instance, you can use 75 lbs of paper or cardboard, 75 lbs of water, and 25 lbs of cement. Optionally, you can add shredded plastic to increase the strength of the papercrete. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until the consistency resembles lumpy oatmeal. Use a homemade mixer, which can be constructed from a stock tank, trailer axle, lawnmower blade, and differential. Ensure the mixer is towed slowly for one mile to blend the mixture properly. A drain made from a truck inner tube can assist in emptying the mix.
Casting Papercrete Blocks
Next, you’ll need to cast the papercrete blocks. Create molds using 2×6 lumber and scrap siding. Fill the mixer three-quarters full with water, add 75 lbs of shredded paper or plastic, and a 95-lb bag of cement. Tow the mixer slowly for one mile to blend the mixture. Pour the mixture into molds, drain excess water, and let the blocks dry for several days. Stack the blocks under cover for full curing. Use a bathroom scale to measure paper weight accurately.
Building the Foundation
Before assembling the yurt walls, you need to build a solid foundation. Dig a trench that is 1 foot wide and 6 inches deep. Fill the trench with concrete and add rebar for reinforcement. On top of the concrete, add a waterproofed cinderblock ring. Coat the first course of the wall with roofing tar to ensure waterproofing. This foundation will provide stability and protection against moisture.
Assembling the Yurt Walls
Once the blocks are fully cured, you can start assembling the yurt walls. Stack the papercrete blocks using papercrete as mortar. Allow the blocks to dry fully, which can take 2 to 4 weeks. Install a bond beam, which is a double-layered plywood ring, at the top to stabilize the structure. This ring will help distribute the weight of the roof evenly.
Constructing the Roof
The final step is to construct the roof. Create a central plywood ring for the rafters. Use scaffolding to ensure precise placement. Install a self-supporting roof with a central ring and rafters, ensuring it can withstand heavy snow and wind. Ensure the ring is level and centered to maintain the structural integrity of the yurt. Apply papercrete plaster to the interior and exterior for a smooth finish. Use raised foundations to prevent moisture damage. Cardboard creates a thicker mix, while newspaper produces a smoother consistency.
Summary
Building a yurt with papercrete is a practical and sustainable way to create emergency shelter. By following this guide, you can construct a sturdy, weather-resistant yurt using lightweight and insulating papercrete blocks. The process involves preparing the papercrete mixture, casting blocks, building a solid foundation, assembling the walls, and constructing the roof. This method not only provides a cost-effective solution but also contributes to environmental sustainability.