It is the realization that concrete homes aren’t sustainable and compatible enough with the environment that has led to the popularization of in-vogue eco-friendly homes. That’s where Satvik and Pradeep make a difference. Natives of Karnataka, they are going the traditional way of building homes with mud blocks.
It was in 2016 that Satvik, a graduate in management, and Pradeep, an engineer, started the company 'Suraksha Mud Block'. They are building houses using interlocking mudblocks. It all started when Satvik came to Kerala for work after his studies and found a house in Payyannur. He was fascinated to know that the earthen house is value for money and eco-friendly. So after learning more about this, he started a business with his friend.
The soil is thoroughly cleaned and sieved to the required quality for making clods. It is mixed with powdered soil and a small amount of plasticizer for flexibility and then transferred to the mold to make the blocks. Clay blocks are heavier than normal blocks. But only eight percent of cement is required to fix them. Mud block houses are a great alternative when conventional constructions require several litres of water to cover the cement.
Blocks can be made in different sizes as per the requirement of the building. The important feature to mention is that they do not absorb much heat from the sun. Therefore, the heat inside the mud house is at least 10 degrees lower than the outside temperature. Blocks also ensure ventilation, keeping indoor temperatures under control in winter. Another advantage is that no plastering or painting is required after construction. The house will be beautiful in the natural beauty of the earthen blocks.
According to Satvik and Pradeep, this method will help reduce construction costs by 20 percent. Other advantages of clay blocks are flexibility, efficiency, and extra strength.
They were able to build 1100 mud houses within seven years. There are hopeful that many people will realize the importance of this new eco-friendly method and will be able to avoid cement usage.
