apply to adobe. The proper mix is important: with about 20-30 percent clay. Having the rightnon-expansiveclay is also crucial, as well as eliminating organic material (e.g. topsoil) from the earth mix. In addition, precautions must be taken in seismically active areas, usually adding vertical and horizontal reinforcing steel as the wall rises. Compared to rammed earth, adobe construction is much more conducive to self-build initiatives. The bricks can be made on site either by hand or by machine. In many areas they are also commercially available. Making the bricks requires minimal skill, and laying them is fairly easy, requiring few tools. Adobe bricks are also inexpensive, costing, for example, typically between $2000 and $3000 US-funds for a 2000 square foot home (Southwick, 1994).