Perishable architectural evidence recovered from prehistoric sites can be used to address significant archaeological questions regarding natural formation processes, occupation duration, and the physical appearance of houses. Specifically, postholes, wall daub, and mud dauber nests hold a variety of clues. Posthole frequency can be used to refine site chronology. Posthole size can be used to examine the structural capacities of house walls, and they often contain wood charcoal that can inform of the species type used for construction. Daub can help with the interpretation of wall thickness, construction materials, and building techniques. Mud dauber nests can provide key roof construction details such as rafter size and roofing material. Houses reconstructed based on archaeological evidence can in turn provide important experimental evidence useful for furthering our knowledge of natural formation processes.
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