Rammed Earth School (Noumea)
In Nouméa, New Caledonia, an innovative school project brought together environmental sustainability, natural aesthetics, and modern building science. The Rammed Earth School was the first of its kind in the region, demonstrating how traditional materials could be paired with advanced protective technologies to achieve both performance and design excellence. Tech-Dry’s solutions played a central role in ensuring the building’s distinctive rammed earth walls would remain durable and resilient in a humid, coastal climate.
The Challenge: Earth Buildings & Moisture Risks
Rammed earth offered many benefits for this school: striking visual character, excellent thermal mass, low embodied energy, and the use of locally sourced material. However, earth walls are inherently vulnerable to moisture. Without proper protection, rising damp, mould, and efflorescence can occur—threatening both structural integrity and appearance. In New Caledonia’s climate, this risk was especially pronounced, with humidity and salt exposure presenting long-term challenges for building durability.
Tech-Dry’s Dual Protection Strategy
To safeguard the rammed earth walls, two Tech-Dry products were integrated during construction:
Plasticure — A water-repellent admixture added directly into the rammed earth mix. By embedding protection throughout the walls, Plasticure helped reduce the risk of moisture penetration, rising damp, and efflorescence while preserving the natural appearance of the material. This internal barrier strengthened both durability and thermal efficiency.
No More Graffiti — An external protective coating applied to the finished walls. Drying to a clear matte finish, it maintained the natural tones and textures of the rammed earth while providing a layer of defence against graffiti, weathering, and surface staining.
The Benefits: Comfort, Durability & Efficiency
By keeping the walls dry and protected, these treatments delivered multiple anticipated benefits:
- Thermal efficiency — Dry walls retain their thermal mass, reducing heat loss and contributing to stable interior temperatures.
- Durability — Protection against moisture damage reduces deterioration, extending the life of the structure.
- Aesthetic preservation — Both admixture and coating safeguard the natural beauty of rammed earth while resisting graffiti and surface staining.
A Lasting Example
By combining rammed earth’s timeless qualities with Tech-Dry’s innovative solutions, the project demonstrates an environmentally responsible, visually distinctive approach to construction—built for resilience and long-term performance.
Looking to improve the performance and lifespan of your infrastructure? Contact Tech-Dry for expert guidance, technical specifications, and tailored product recommendations.