Can You Construct a Functional Building Using Car Tires?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of constructing a functional building using car tires, specifically exploring designs for small structures and considerations for safety and practicality. Participants consider various construction methods, potential designs, and the implications of using tires as a building material.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes building a small structure (20' X 20' or 30' X 30') using stacked car tires, suggesting a layered approach with black plastic for waterproofing.
  • Another participant warns about the potential danger of collapse when using heavy materials overhead, emphasizing safety concerns in the discussion.
  • A suggestion is made to start with a small model (4' by 4' by 4') to test the concept safely before scaling up to larger structures.
  • Participants are encouraged to consider non-rectangular designs, with references to tire igloos and houses made from recycled tires as alternative concepts.
  • One participant shares an observation of a functional construction using tires, describing a tall fence made from bolted tires and supported by wooden posts, highlighting the labor and cost involved in such projects.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the feasibility and safety of using tires for construction. While some suggest practical approaches and alternatives, others raise concerns about safety and structural integrity, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of detailed engineering analysis, potential safety hazards associated with heavy materials, and varying definitions of what constitutes a functional building.

John1397
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Would it be possible to build a small 20' X 20' or 30' X 30' building using car tires using maybe one layer tires then black plastic to keep rain out then another layer of tires? If you just stack them vertical for the wall how would you build roof? Stacking them like great pyramids would look nice except I do not know how or if this would work with tires. By the way I can obtain a lot of tires. Draw me a detailed picture how to do.
 
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Members are urged to be careful answering this thread. The danger of collapse with heavy materials overhead would take this discussion into dangerous territory. Dangerous topics are not allowed on PF.
 
Build a small model building - say about 4' by 4' by 4' high on the inside. That will answer all of your questions with no danger to you if it collapses. And you can do that in less time than it takes to draw a picture.

If that works, then a larger building, say about 8' by 8' by 6' high, before building a full scale building.
 
Does it have to be a rectangular building ? Google 'car tire igloo'
 
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John1397 said:
Would it be possible to build a small 20' X 20' or 30' X 30' building using car tires

I am immediately reminded of a common comment "I can do anything you want to pay for." More definition of what your goal is would help. I have observed some very interesting and functional constructions using tires. One of the more intriguing was a large fence over 8 foot in height. The tires were bolted together both through the tread area and through the sidewalls. Approximately every 10 feet there was a large wood post which was cemented into the ground. This fence had the lower section of each tire filled with dirt and was used as the properties garden.
Was it constructed of tires? Yes, however it was also possibly expensive and labor intensive. Whether that met the persons goals is up to them.
 

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