Best soil for a house

Loam soil — holds a little water, gives solid dry support

House orientation (tropics)

Long axis East–West; windows face North–South

Damp Proof Course (D.P.C.)

Sand + cement + bituminous material in the foundation, stops rising damp

Rat-proofing

Deep foundation; wire-screened chimney; two-lip concrete wall

Natural light benefit

Antiseptic (UV), cheap, builds Vitamin D, favours ventilation

Ventilation (large buildings)

Propulsion, extraction, or balanced system

Heat transfer methods

Radiation, conduction, convection

Most efficient home heater

Closed stove (~70% efficiency)

Kitchen placement

Far from the toilet; near the eating room