Cordwood building—log-ends set in insulated mortar—is a versatile, economical, low-impact, and beautiful building method. Its durability and performance has been proven in beautiful, centuries-old buildings in North America and Europe. Yet until now, there has been no trusted, practical guide to cordwood construction using the material in a wide variety of construction projects.

Distilling decades of experience and best practices, Essential Cordwood Building is the first fully illustrated, step-by-step guide to cordwood building. Ideal for the DIYer and professional designer and builder alike, it covers:Wood species selection, log-end length, and seasoningCement, lime putty, and cob mortar optionsWall cavity insulation optionsBudgeting and estimatingHighly illustrated, step-by-step building techniquesWindow and door frame installation, pointing and chinking, finishing, and plasteringSpecial designs and decorative featuresCode references, compliance, building science, and best practicesTroubleshooting and maintenance

Essential Cordwood Building is part of New Society’s Sustainable Building Essentials Series. Series editors Chris Magwood and Jen Feigin have scoured the world of sustainable building to bring you the techniques and systems that deliver measurable benefits in terms of greater efficiency and reduced environmental impacts. Written by the world’s leading sustainable builders, designers, and engineers, these succinct, user-friendly handbooks are indispensable tools for any project where high performance and low impact are key goals. Get the essentials!

Rob Roy is widely recognized as a world leading authority on cordwood construction. He is Director of Earthwood Building School in West Chazy, New York, which teaches owner-builders how to build with cordwood masonry. Rob has authored and edited fifteen books, including Cordwood Building, Timber Framing for the Rest of Us, Earth-Sheltered Houses, and Stoneview.

Rob Roy

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