Rammed Earth Walls Mornington Peninsula   

A rammed earth wall is built by compacting layers of earth, sand, and aggregate between formwork. Each layer is around 15 cm deep, and the process continues until the desired wall height is achieved. 

Adding a small amount (approx. 6%) of cement creates stabilised rammed earth, which increases durability while maintaining its natural appeal.

Rammed earth walls are designed to last for hundreds of years. Many structures built using this method, including parts of the Great Wall of China, still stand today.

Modern technology, quality control, and stabilised rammed earth techniques have only improved their longevity.

At Flo Landscapes, we offer a comprehensive range of landscaping services tailored to your specific needs. 

Flo is a end-to-end full service landscaping company:

Consultation:

• Garden Design
• Design Packages
• Design Consultation

Earth Works:

• Demolition
• Rammed Earth
• Site Preparation
• Excavation & Soil Management

Soft Landscaping:

• Gardens & Trees
• Turfing & Mulching
• Edible Gardens

Hard Landscaping:

• Paving & Rock Work
• Pool Coping & Decks
• Driveways & Retainment

Unlike conventional masonry walls, rammed earth structures offer:

• High thermal mass, reducing energy consumption
• Superior fire resistance (4-hour fire rating for 300mm walls)
• Exceptional strength and durability—resistant to erosion, pests, and weather
• Sustainable building materials—low embodied energy, little waste, and eco-friendly
• Low maintenance—sealed walls last 10-20 years before needing a touch-up

Building Code of Australia (BCA) – All rammed earth walls comply with load-bearing wall regulations, ensuring safety and longevity.

Structural Engineering – Our team works with structural engineers to ensure every wall meets required standards.

Building Permits – We assist in securing permits for compliant earth construction.

With their high thermal mass, rammed earth walls regulate temperature naturally, keeping interiors cool in summer and warm in winter.

This reduces reliance on artificial heating and cooling, cutting down on energy consumption

Yes! Earth doesn’t burn, making it an ideal material for bushfire-prone areas. CSIRO testing showed that a 250mm thick earth block wall achieved a 4-hour fire resistance rating, with thicker walls offering even greater protection.

Yes! Their density and thickness significantly reduce noise transmission. A 300mm rammed earth wall achieves a sound transmission rating of over 50 decibels, making it perfect for homes near traffic or between internal spaces like bedrooms and living areas.

Yes. At 300mm thick, rammed earth walls are structurally self-supporting, reducing the need for additional framing. They also provide substantial bracing, often exceeding Building Code of Australia requirements.

Minimal. Once sealed, external walls need no further attention for 10-20 years. A simple reapplication of sealant keeps them looking fresh. Unlike brick or render, rammed earth walls don’t need painting or finishing.

Yes! Curved walls, circular windows, and decorative alcoves can all be incorporated into the design. While they may cost slightly more due to custom formwork, they add a unique architectural flair to any project.

Absolutely. Rammed earth is a versatile medium, and you can integrate artwork, sculptures, and relief patterns into rammed earth walls. 

Rammed earth walls naturally have a stunning, off-form finish, but they can also be painted, rendered, or limewashed if desired. Most clients prefer to leave them natural to showcase their raw beauty.

Rammed earth reflects the natural colour of the soil mix used, ranging from creamy tones to deep reds. Additional oxides can be added for decorative layering.

In some cases, yes. However, most natural soils require modification, and using quarry-sourced soil mixes ensures the best structural integrity and colour consistency.

Rammed earth walls typically cost slightly more than standard masonry walls due to specialist construction methods. 

However, their low maintenance, durability, and energy savings result in long-term cost benefits. 

Factors affecting cost include:

• Transport of soil mix

• Wall height and thickness

• Complexity of the design

The construction time depends on the size and complexity of the project, but generally, a single rammed earth wall section can be completed in a few days, with additional curing time required.

Yes. Rammed earth walls must comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and Australian Standard HB195-2002: The Australian Earth Building Handbook. 

We ensure all structures meet engineering and permit requirements.

Yes! Termites and other pests cannot eat rammed earth. Since the walls are solid without cavities, pests have nowhere to nest. 

However, the Building Code of Australia still requires additional termite barriers, such as a concrete slab foundation.

Extremely well. Unlike timber-framed homes, rammed earth walls don’t creak or move in strong winds. The addition of a water-repellent admixture also ensures superior moisture resistance.

Rammed earth is one of the most sustainable construction methods available, using:

• Local materials, reducing transport emissions

• Little waste, since excess material can be reused

• No toxic chemicals, making it safe and breathable for occupants

Yes. Electrical conduits are built into the walls during construction, and plumbing can also be incorporated, provided it is properly lagged.

Yes! Just like masonry walls, you can drill into rammed earth using standard fixings. 

Longer screws or anchors may be required for heavier installations.