Index of periodical articles selected from journals received in the National Housing Center Library.

Learn how to identify, locate, and effectively use alternative building materials, including cob, adobe, rammed earth, bamboo, cork, wool carpeting, and more. You will also learn about the structure, climate control, siting, foundations, and flooring options you gain when using these materials. Ultimately, you will come to understand that these materials are cheaper, easier to build with, stronger, more durable, and more fire resistant.

What people need most is encouragement with a rational approach to a large project. With this information, first timers can grab hold of a tested method for implementing their project. The problem with being led by professional contractors is that they quickly forget their learning curve. After coming up through the ranks of construction teams, they really don't make as many mistakes as the amateur. The details of their learning process, once laid to paper, have been refined, with the potential pitfalls removed. They do not describe the possible failure outcomes of the procedures. I don't believe it's intentional, It's just humane nature. Skilled craftsman take for granted the skills they learned when completing a task that, to them, has become second-nature.

A Homeowners Guide to the Custom Home Building Process introduces the new homeowner to the paperwork and processes that it takes to build a home from the ground up. The Homeowners Guide walks you through contractor selection, bidding and contract administration, all the way to project completion. You will learn of some warning signs along the way, so you dont get taken advantage of. Building your new home can be an enjoyable experience, by educating yourself, staying positive, and visualizing the outcomeyour dream house. I have personally known Christy for over twenty years. Christy is very personable, honest, hard-working, and dedicated. She has an excellent understanding of the construction industry and associated paperwork, and her estimates have always been accurate. Paul U. Dritenbas, AIA, principal architect

Build a truly green home for the same total net cost as the conventional alternative