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How long do straw bale homes last?
100 years
If built correctly a straw bale home can last 100 years at least. When it’s life cycle is complete, a structure stripped of all but the walls can be tilled back into the earth. That can’t be said for stick frame homes using modern insulation.
How is straw bale sustainable?
Straw bale construction is a relatively sustainable construction method, with straw being a renewable material that is readily available. Straw bales take little energy to manufacture, with the bailing process and transportation the only additional energy required (other than the sun used to grow the plants).
Is straw bale waterproof?
Durability and moisture resistance After two or three weeks the fungi in bales produce enzymes that break down straw cellulose if the moisture content is above 20% by weight. The best way to prevent rot in a finished structure is to create a waterproof, breathable wall.
Is it cheaper to build a straw bale house?
Although straw is cheaper than building materials, such as brick or lumber, constructing a straw bale home will usually cost the same as a conventional home because the wall budget is only about 10 percent to 15 percent of the total building budget [source: Magwood, Mack, Therrien].
What is the R value of a straw bale wall?
The reported R-value of straw bale walls varies from R 2.38 per inch to R 0.94 per inch.
What do you use to make straw bale walls?
Make straw bale walls, not using hay, but using straw. Straw is from harvested grain stalks (never use bales of grass). These need to remain dry, less than 20% moisture content, and tightly bound to prevent moist air (including fog) getting in before plastering. Both factors are important to prevent the rotting of the bales after construction.
How is a load bearing straw bale made?
Load bearing straw bale construction uses a simple assembly method of laying the bales in courses, with each bale centred on the bale joint beneath – stretcher bond. The bales are raised from ground level by a brick plinth, to avoid contact with moisture.
How are straw bales used to store carbon?
Straw naturally sequesters carbon both in grain stalk itself and by storing carbon into the soil. The amount of carbon sequestered depends on the type of straw, where and how it was grown, and on harvesting methods. Straw bale construction utilizes a waste material
What kind of hay is used to make hay bales?
Hay should be green, leafy, and smell good. Straw is mostly the stems of oats, wheat, or another cereal crop, and is a golden color. Straw is mainly used for bedding. When hay is cut, it is baled. It is baled so it can be transported and stored easier. The bales can be held together with twine, wire, netting, or even plastic wrap.