Hemp Shives
Hemp shives are the chopped-up, woody core of the hemp plant.
The shives produce 65–70 percent of the hemp plant's total output (by mass) and are lightweight with a low thermal conductivity, which means they have a good thermal insulation ability - due to their high porosity.
Hydraulic Lime
What do the pyramids of Egypt, the Great Wall of China and Roman bridges have in common? They have all lasted centuries and are still standing proud today.
But what’s the secret to their longevity and their incredible stamina? It all comes down to the lime. This natural binder, which has been used for more than 5,000 years, just like the buildings in which it’s been used.
Hydraulic lime, also known as calcium oxide, sets by hydration.
Hydrolic Lime is the ultimate in lime with a faster initial set and higher compressive strength than air lime. Hydraulic lime also sets in more extreme conditions, including under water.
The Hemp Block
Blending hemp shivs and hydraulic lime creates a moldable paste that embodies strength and insulation. This mixture is transferred into molds where it's compressed to achieve a uniform, dense structure, setting the foundation for a durable block.
As the blocks rest, they undergo a crucial curing phase, with the hydraulic lime setting to lock in the block's strength and resilience. Once this process is complete, each block is subjected to meticulous quality checks, ensuring adherence to their high standards of performance and sustainability.
Once prepared, these hemp blocks stand ready, primed for integration into modern new home construction projects.
As the world shifts towards more sustainable building practices, hemp blocks present an opportunity to blend the wisdom of ancient construction with modern-day environmental concerns.
For those seeking a resilient, energy-efficient, and green building material, the hemp block is a formidable contender.
Hemp Block Benefits
Carbon Negative
-90% Carbon reduction
Harness the power of nature - a pallet of hemp blocks will capture 100 kilograms of CO2 from the atmosphere over its lifetime.
By choosing a CO2 negative home, you contribute to reducing greenhouse gas levels and combatting climate change, fostering a healthier, greener planet for future generations.
Zero MoUld anti-microbial + anti-fungal
Due to the lime content in hempcrete our hemp blocks have a high pH and are inherently anti-microbial and anti-fungal, meaning it resists the development of mold even when the humidity and temperature conditions would cause mould to occur.
The natural breathability of hemp prevents moisture accumulation, safeguarding your home against mould growth and enhancing indoor air quality for a healthier, more comfortable living space.
Air Filtering
Breathing Life into Your Home
The unique hygroscopic properties of Hemp Blocks actively improve indoor air quality by regulating humidity levels and filtering out pollutants, creating a fresher, healthier environment for you and your family.
Hemp blocks can help reduce the presence of molds, mildews, and other airborne pollutants, contributing to improved indoor air quality.
Fire Resistant
Safeguard those you love
Experience peace of mind with certified Hemp Blocks designed to resist fire.
The inherent fire-resistant properties of hemp blocks coupled with our innovative building techniques create a safer home, offering an added layer of protection for you and your loved ones.
Energy Efficient Optimizing Comfort, less Cost
Discover the joy of living in a home that’s both comfortable and energy-efficient. The superb thermal performance of Hemp Blocks results in optimal indoor temperatures year-round, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills, making sustainability an everyday luxury.
Plant-Based
Embracing Nature’s Ingenuity
Rooted in sustainability, our homes are constructed with plant-based Hemp Blocks.
By embracing this renewable resource, we’re crafting homes that are in harmony with nature, combining ecological responsibility with innovative design for a truly green living experience.
Sound Absorbing
Tranquil Living Spaces
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of a Hemp Block home. The natural sound-absorbing qualities of hemp create a serene and peaceful living space, shielding you from external noise and fostering an atmosphere of calm and relaxation.
Pest Resistant
24/7 Protection, year round
Termites, a major concern in construction, are drawn to materials with high cellulose content, like wood. Hemp's cellulose composition is much different from wood, and combined with its other natural properties, it doesn't present the same appealing food source for termites.
Non Toxic
Chemical Free, No VOCs
Hemp blocks do not require the addition of synthetic chemicals or additives to achieve their desired properties. This contrasts with many traditional construction materials that may contain or be treated with potentially toxic substances.
Read our blog
Hemp Blocks to your Negative Carbon Home - Australia
FAQs
Building Homes with Hemp Blocks Frequently Asked Questions
While the initial investment in hemp blocks can be higher than using some traditional building materials, there are several factors that can offset this cost. The energy efficiency of hemp blocks can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs, offering long-term savings on energy bills.
Additionally, the speed and ease of construction associated with hemp blocks can potentially reduce labor costs.
Furthermore, the blocks' natural resistance to pests, mold, and fire can minimize maintenance and repair costs over the life of the home.
Yes, hemp blocks is a very suitable building material for Australia, given the country’s diverse climate and increasing focus on sustainable building practices.
Here are several factors contributing to their suitability:
Climate Adaptability:
Australia experiences a wide range of climates, from tropical in the north to temperate in the south, and arid in the interior. Hemp blocks have excellent thermal properties, helping maintain a stable indoor temperature, which can be beneficial across Australia’s varied climates. Their ability to regulate moisture is an added advantage, especially in humid regions.
Fire Resistance:
As mentioned previously, hemp blocks have inherent fire-resistant properties, which is a crucial consideration given the risk of bushfires in many parts of Australia.
Sustainability:
With an increasing focus on sustainable living in Australia, hemp blocks align well with this shift. Hemp cultivation is eco-friendly, and the blocks contribute to energy-efficient homes, which is in line with the national push towards reducing carbon emissions.
Hemp block homes can be highly customizable. The blocks can be used in various architectural styles and designs, although considerations need to be made regarding the blocks’ thickness and the requirement for a supporting structural frame.
Working with an experienced architect can help in designing a home that meets personal preferences while optimizing the benefits of hemp blocks.
Furthermore, the external and internal finishes can be adapted to suit individual tastes, while maintaining the breathability of the walls.
Hemp blocks are renowned for their natural resistance to fire, pests, and mold. The lime binder used in the blocks creates an alkaline environment, making them inhospitable to pests and mold.
Hemp blocks have a good fire resistance rating also, which can be enhanced further with suitable renders and finishes. These features contribute to the longevity and low maintenance of structures built with hemp blocks.
Hemp blocks are known for their durability and will outlast most typical building materials. The lime binder petrifies the hemp over time, resulting in a material that continues to harden and strengthen as it ages. Additionally, hemp blocks are resistant to rot and pests, which further contributes to their longevity.
Unlike some traditional building materials, hemp blocks also have the ability to cope with movement and settlement without cracking, making them a suitable material for a variety of climates and geographical settings. The low maintenance requirements and natural resilience of hemp blocks make them a favorable option for long-term sustainability in construction.
Hemp block homes have lower maintenance requirements compared to homes made from some traditional materials. The natural resistance of hemp blocks to pests, mold, and fire reduces the need for repairs and replacements.
Additionally, the walls made of hemp blocks do not off-gas and contribute to a healthier indoor environment, reducing the need for air quality control measures. Regular inspections and upkeep, as with any home, are still essential to ensure the longevity of a hemp block home.
Hemp blocks are a highly sustainable building material. Hemp cultivation requires minimal water, and it absorbs a significant amount of CO2 from the atmosphere, reducing the overall carbon footprint of the building.
Moreover, hemp blocks have excellent insulating properties, leading to energy-efficient homes that require less energy for heating and cooling.
Hemp blocks provide good sound insulation due to their density and porous nature. This means that homes built with hemp blocks can effectively minimize the transmission of external noise, contributing to a quieter and more comfortable living environment.
Additionally, the customisation of finishes and additional soundproofing measures can further enhance the acoustic properties of the home, making hemp blocks an attractive option for those looking for acoustically efficient homes.