Beton Chanvre Technique

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A plant based concrete?

We talk about hempcrete in such a way because concrete is the combination of a binder, an aggregate and water.

In our case the binder is lime and the aggregate is hemp.

This non-structural concrete serves as an insulating envelope for new builds and renovations.

This insulation, mechanically sprayed as a filling and/or lining, has multiple functions.

The use of Hemp-Lime makes it possible to do away with the multitude of plastic membranes traditionally used in modern construction.

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The Applications

There are many applications for hemp concrete:

Roofs
Floors
Walls
Slabs

Hemp lime is a breathable material offering excellent hygrothermal regulation.
In addition, due to its density, it allows occupants to enjoy a feeling of comfort both in summer (phase shift) and in winter (thermal insulation).

By simply playing with the quantity of binder in the hempcrete we can modulate and adapt its use: thermal, acoustic-phonic, inertia.

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NEW BUILD

In the context of a new build with hempcrete, we are not talking about insulation from the inside or the outside but about a "monolithic" hempcrete construction.

The sprayed hempcrete simply covers the structural frame, creating optimal insulation without thermal bridges.

For good performance we recommend a thickness of 33cm for the wall and 40cm for the roof.

In most cases, the hemp-lime is sprayed from the outside against reed (or fermacel) serving as formwork and substrate for the interior renders and will receive compatible coatings (see finishes).

Outdoors, exposed to the elements, hemp-lime can be covered with a render or finished with wood cladding.

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RENOVATION

As part of a comprehensive renovation of a historical buildings, hemp-lime is THE best solution for insulating while respecting the characteristics of old materials.

A breathable, hygro-thermal regulator which improves the interior comfort of stone, brick and cob walls.

Hemp-lime meets the simple yet neccesary requirements of historic buildings which need "breathe"

The use of this material for the creation of external insulation is not worthy because hemp-lime should, due to its intrinsic properties, interact with the living side of the building.

In addition, external insulation often removes all the charm and character from an old building.

For a real gain in comfort, we recommend spraying 8 to 15cm of hemp-lime on interior walls depending on the substrate and the amount of space available.

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Finishes

The various finishes we offer for hempcrete are perfectly adapted to the technical requirements of modern projects, guaranteeing excellent adhesion, increased durability and an impeccable, aesthetic finish.

Gypsum Plaster: Ideal for smooth and neat surfaces.
Lime and Gypsum: Balanced mixture without needing to paint.
Clay: Provides a natural and timeless finish.
Lime and Hemp Plaster: Reinforcing insulation and acoustic properties
Lime: A strong, resistant finish
Wood cladding: Excellent protection for exterior walls.

Not allowed: All resin based products, cement or any other "miracle" materials, which are not suited to the incredibly breathability of hemp-lime and risk compromising its technical properties, in particular hygrometric regulation.