maatäytteissä

Maatäytteissä, meaning "soil fillings" or "earth fillings" in Finnish, refers to the use of soil and other natural materials as a construction material, particularly in earth-sheltered buildings and landscaping. This practice leverages the inherent thermal mass and insulating properties of the earth to regulate building temperatures.

In the context of earth-sheltered architecture, maatäytteissä involves covering the exterior walls and roof of a structure with layers of soil, gravel, and vegetation. This earthen cover acts as a natural insulator, reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, thus significantly lowering energy consumption for heating and cooling. The thickness of the soil layer is a crucial factor in determining its effectiveness, with deeper layers providing greater thermal stability.

Beyond building insulation, maatäytteissä is also employed in various landscaping applications. It can be used to create berms, terraces, and other landforms, altering the terrain for aesthetic purposes or to manage water runoff. The careful selection and placement of soil types are important for drainage and plant growth in these contexts.

The materials used for maatäytteissä typically include excavated soil from the site itself, compost, gravel, and drainage layers. The success of the application depends on proper compaction, drainage, and protection against erosion. This method is environmentally friendly, often utilizing locally sourced materials and reducing the need for manufactured insulation. The long-term benefits include reduced energy costs and a more harmonious integration of structures with their natural surroundings.