Dear Folks,
 
Rammed earth, or mud, construction formed an important mode of farm
construction from at least the 1840s to possibly as late as the 1930s in
inland Australia.
 
In many cases the walls were raised using timber forming (sometimes in
several stages upwards). Clayey soil was puddled and perhaps mixed with
whatever grasses could be gathered. The mix was probably very stiff when
shoved into the forming. The earth was rammed to compact the material to
fit the forming - hence, 'rammed earth construction'. When almost dry the
next level could be commenced. The outline of the forming is often to be
seen on decaying examples. The walls were almost always plastered in three
coats: scratch coat, floating coat and finishing coat - either smooth and
with scibing in imitation of ashlar stonework or were roughcast. The
plaster was the same as they applied to some brick houses and such walls
have survived to this day, whether of brick or of clay.
 
As others have observed, the roof is an important factor for the long-term
survival of such constructions but I have seen walls stand for decades
without any protection (mostly located in dry areas though).
 
The term 'mud' has various meanings, it was/is a synonym for mortar (lime
and sand) and for any sort of puddled soil/clay mix. A study of the
available soil/clay types in an area once listed as having had a 'mud
house' may indicate construction type.
 
Regards,
 
Robert
 
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