COB - a mix of clay, sand, and straw - is one of the most popular and well-known natural building materials. It has proven viable for centuries in cultures and climates all over the world. Recent research and a newly developed building code promise to make cob building more accessible than ever. Essential Cob Construction incorporates rigorous, up-to-date engineering and building science plus decades of practical lessons learned. Coverage includes: Appropriate use of cob in different climates and contexts, Thermal performance and moisture management, Structural and architectural design considerations, including fire and earthquake resistance data from extensive laboratory testing, Hands-on cob construction, including mix design, testing, manual and mechanical mixing, wall building, strong connections with foundations, roofs, other structural elements, and finishing options, Planning, budgeting, and quality control, Building code development and the permitting process for cob structures, The complete Cob Construction Appendix of the International Residential Code. Essential Cob Construction is required reading for engineers, architects, designers, contractors, and owner-builders working with this ancient, aesthetically pleasing, low-carbon building material.