Description
Book SynopsisThe Ecology of Building Materials explores key questions surrounding sustainability of building materials. It provides technical data to enable design and building professionals to choose the most appropriate materials for a project: those that are least polluting, most energy efficient, and from sustainable sources. The book also gives information and guidance on a wide range of issues such as recycling, detailing for increased durability and Life Cycle Analysis.
Berge’s book, translated from the Norwegian by Chris Butters and Filip Henley, offers safe and environmentally friendly material options. It provides an essential and easy-to-use reference guide to this complex subject for the building industry professional.
New to this edition:
• Thorough exploration of building materials in relation to climate change issues
• Extensive updating of basic data, as well as the introduction of a wide range of new materials
• Methods for recycling and reuse of materials
• More information on the interaction between materials and the indoor environment, ventilation and energy use
• Full colour text and user-friendly larger format
Bjørn Berge is a practicing architect, researcher and lecturer. Since the 1970s, he has written several books on building ecology for the Scandinavian public. He is one of the founders of Gaia Architects who have developed a wide range of pioneering techniques in sustainable building.
Trade ReviewFirst edition Silver Award Winner at the Chartered Institute of Buildings Literary Awards, 2001.
Table of ContentsPart 1 Eddies and Water-Level Markers: Environmental Profiles and Criteria for Assessment; Chapter 1 Resources; Chapter 2 Pollution; Chapter 3 Local Production and the Human Ecological Aspect; Chapter 4 The Chemical and Physical Properties of Building Materials; Further Reading for Part 1; Part 2 The Flower, Iron and Ocean: Raw Materials and Basic Materials; Chapter 5 Water and Air; Chapter 6 Minerals; Chapter 7 Stone; Chapter 8 Soil Materials; Chapter 9 Fossil Oils; Chapter 10 Plants; Chapter 11 Materials of Animal Origin; Chapter 12 Industrial By-Products; Further Reading for Part 2; Part 3 The Construction of a Sea-Iron-Flower: Building Materials; Chapter 13 Structural Materials; Chapter 14 Climatic Materials; Chapter 15 Surface Materials; Chapter 16 Windows, Doors and Stairs; Chapter 17 Fixings and Connections; Chapter 18 Paint, Varnish, Stain and Wax; Chapter 19 Impregnating Agents, and How to Avoid Them Further Reading for Part 3;
