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When the topic of cannabis arises, most people don't usually think about construction.
Hempcrete, a natural building material made from hemp and lyme, is quickly gaining attention as a sustainable alternative in the construction industry.
But what exactly is hemp, and why is hempcrete becoming a popular choice?
Hemp
Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis plant, grown specifically for industrial uses such as fabrics, plastic, and paper.
Because of this, hemp is grown with almost no THC (the chemical that gives users a high).
Hemp, cannabis, and marijuana all describe the exact same plant.
When hemp is grown with the intention of producing high levels of THC
it then becomes known as "Cannabis" or "Marijuana".
Hempcrete
Hempcrete, first used in France in the 1980s and 90's, is made from the inner part of the stem called the "hurd", mixed with a lime based binder and water.
Its primary use is insulation, non-load bearing structures, and even flooring.
Hempcrete can even be made into bricks and when combined with minimal amounts of steel or timber, can build houses.
In 2022, hempcrete, was accepted as a building material, along by the International Code Council, and was included in the 2024 edition of the International Residential Code as an appendix: "Appendix BL Hemp-Lime (Hempcrete) Construction".
Hempcrete Bricks & House
Why Use It?
Most importantly hemp is considered "Carbon Negative".
This means not only does hempcrete not produce C02, but while the hemp is growing before it is mixed, it is actually pulling carbon dioxide out of the air as opposed to concrete, steel, and glass.
Thermal Insulation
Hempcrete provides excellent thermal insulation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.
This can lower energy bills and decrease a building's overall energy consumption, making it more sustainable.
This could drastically improve climate change.
Hempcrete allows buildings to "breathe," meaning it can regulate humidity by absorbing and releasing moisture.
This helps maintain a consistent indoor climate and prevents condensation, which is crucial for preventing mold growth
Renewable Resource
Hemp grows rapidly, maturing in just a few months, which makes it a highly renewable material compared to concrete or wood from slow-growing trees.
Hemp is also biodegarable and wont end up in landfills.
Fire Resistant
Hempcrete has excellent fire resistance due to its lime content. It doesn't easily ignite and can help slow down the spread of fire, making it a safer building material for homes.
Durability
Hempcrete is highly durable and resistant to pests, mold, and decay, especially when paired with proper lime finishes.
The material strengthens over time as it continues to cure, which can extend the lifespan of buildings made with it.
Unlike wood, hempcrete doesn’t attract termites or other pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, hempcrete presents a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional building materials. With its carbon-negative properties, excellent thermal insulation, fire resistance, and durability.
It not only reduces energy consumption but also offers a healthier living environment. As the construction industry seeks greener solutions, hempcrete's rapid growth, renewability, and minimal environmental impact make it a compelling choice for the future of sustainable building.
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