Lessons for relearning traditional know-how: Rammed earth walls of Tepeyahualco region, in Mexico

Abstract

The prime objective of this article is to analyze a particular method of building rammed earth walls used in Tepeyahualco, Mexico, using pozzolana, earth, and lime waste. It also aims to show how such building know-how has been adapted to its sociocultural context, as in this system stemming from the combination of the two older construction techniques: rammed earth walls, and roofs made of lime and pozzolans. The research involved on-site documentation of the rammed earth walls and all other building techniques related to them. Apart from interviews with local builders familiar with the technique, a systematic study of it was carried out. Laboratory tests were subsequently performed to verify inferences made on the site. The results lay bare how traditional building methods can well continue to evolve from their particular cultural contexts, and even contribute to the development of new technical applications that take that traditional knowledge as a starting point, especially in the quest for more sustainability.