Hempcrete offers several benefits in the construction industry, including reduced heating and cooling costs, stable interior humidity levels, faster curing times, and the ability to be used for both new builds and retrofits. It can also create homes that are more affordable to own and operate
However, there are also some challenges associated with hempcrete use in construction. These challenges include a lack of awareness among builders and designers, difficulty getting hempcrete approved by building codes, and the stigma sometimes associated with hemp.
Overall, hempcrete presents a promising path towards sustainable construction. Its impressive energy efficiency, healthy indoor environment benefits, and versatility make it an attractive option. However, increased awareness, education, and code updates are crucial to overcome the existing challenges and unlock hempcrete's full potential in the construction industry.
Hempcrete Construction: Interview with Cameron McIntosh
The interview with Cameron McIntosh by Hemp Today dives into the world of hempcrete construction. McIntosh, a key figure in the industry, is the co-founder of Americhanvre Cast Hemp, a company specializing in hempcrete building using the innovative Ereasy Spray Applied Hempcrete system. He shares valuable insights for both those curious about hempcrete and those looking to enter the hemp construction business.
Valuable Insights to Know About Hempcrete:
The Need for Green Building Materials
The interview highlights the growing demand for sustainable building materials. Hempcrete emerges as a promising option, offering environmental benefits like carbon sequestration. However, challenges remain, including a lack of awareness and building code hurdles.
Paving the Way for Hempcrete
McIntosh emphasizes the importance of testing, documentation, and education. He discusses the role of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) in establishing hempcrete's carbon footprint and the efforts to create Product Category Rules (PCRs) to standardize its evaluation. Collaboration across the industry is crucial for this advancement.
Hempcrete on the Code Compliance Path
The interview reveals that hempcrete is nearing code compliance with crucial ASTM E-119 fire testing underway. This is a significant step towards wider commercial use.
Hempcrete Clients and Motivations
McIntosh sheds light on Americhanvre's clientele. Many are motivated homeowners who manage their builds, drawn to hempcrete's performance, cost-effectiveness, and health benefits. Interestingly, they are not necessarily cannabis enthusiasts, but value the material's practical advantages.
New Builds vs. Retrofits
The majority of Americhanvre's projects are custom new builds. However, they also handle retrofits. Notably, the interview highlights a first-of-its-kind hempcrete apartment complex and a project examining hempcrete's viability for affordable housing.
The Ereasy System Explained
McIntosh delves into the Ereasy system, a unique spray-applied approach to hempcrete construction. Key aspects include pre-mixed materials, efficient application, and a lightweight binder-to-hurd ratio. This system offers speed, consistency, and cost savings compared to traditional methods.
Running a Lean Hempcrete Operation
The interview reveals Americhanvre's efficient labor approach. By training small teams and utilizing factory-weighed materials, they minimize overhead costs and pass savings to clients.
Spray Application vs. Other Methods
While spray application may seem more expensive upfront, McIntosh argues it offers a 20-30% cost reduction compared to hand casting due to faster installation and reduced labor hours. Spray application also complements pre-cast elements when used strategically.
Advice for Entering Hemp Construction
McIntosh offers valuable advice for aspiring hemp construction professionals. He emphasizes focusing on the material's performance benefits rather than just its hemp origin. He also suggests adapting to local construction practices and collaborating with industry organizations. Finally, he encourages open communication and resource sharing within the hemp building community.
This interview provides a comprehensive look at hempcrete construction, its potential, and the challenges it faces. It also offers a glimpse into the innovative solutions and collaborative efforts pushing this sustainable building material forward. To read the full interview, ‘There is a modern path for renewable, plant-based materials like hempcrete to follow’.