PDC Natural Building & Shelter Design

Question 1

What is the primary principle behind passive solar design in natural building?

Accepted Answer

Using the sun's energy for heating and cooling without mechanical systems

Answer

Positioning windows to maximize year-round sunlight regardless of direction

Answer

Installing solar panels to generate electricity for the building

Answer

Painting walls dark colors to absorb maximum heat

Question 2

Which natural building material is made by mixing subsoil clay, sand, straw, and water, then shaped into walls by hand?

Accepted Answer

Cob

Answer

Adobe

Answer

Rammed earth

Answer

Cordwood

Question 3

What does 'thermal mass' refer to in the context of natural building?

Accepted Answer

A material's ability to absorb, store, and slowly release heat

Answer

The weight-bearing capacity of a wall structure

Answer

The insulating value of a material measured in R-value

Answer

The ratio of solar energy reflected by a surface

Question 4

Which climate type is cob construction BEST suited for?

Accepted Answer

Temperate climates with low to moderate rainfall

Answer

Hot and humid tropical climates

Answer

Cold subarctic climates with extreme snowfall

Answer

Coastal climates with high salt air exposure

Question 5

What does the R-value measure in building construction?

Accepted Answer

The thermal resistance or insulating ability of a material

Answer

The structural load capacity of a material

Answer

The compressive strength of earthen walls

Answer

The water absorption rate of building materials

Question 6

What type of roof feature is especially critical in straw bale construction to protect the walls?

Accepted Answer

A large, wide overhang to protect walls from rain and ground splashback

Answer

A flat or low-slope roof to reduce wind exposure

Answer

A metal standing-seam roof to reflect solar radiation

Answer

A butterfly roof to maximize rainwater collection

Question 7

What is the primary ecological benefit of a living roof (green roof) on a natural building?

Accepted Answer

It provides insulation, manages stormwater runoff, and supports biodiversity

Answer

It generates solar electricity through photovoltaic cells integrated into the vegetation layer

Answer

It completely eliminates the need for any other form of roof waterproofing

Answer

It replaces the need for gutters and downspouts on any building