How Straw Bale Construction Helps in Construction Projects?

Straw bale construction is a construction method using bales of straw made out of wheat, rye, oats, and/or rice as a building element or wall insulation. This construction method has recently been revived as it is a renewable resource. Another reason for this is a growing concern for the environment and human health, as modern building methods are often toxic.

Straw bales have been used since prehistoric times. This was particularly used by American Indians as it was readily available on reservations. In modern times, these humble bales have been incorporated into modular bales manufactured by machines since the early 20th century in the mid-west of the Unites States of America as straw was abundant as opposed to other materials.

Whole buildings can be made out of straw bales. This is done by stacking bales into rows on a foundation with a moisture barrier between the bales and the foundation. The bale walls are reinforced by tying them together with some kind of binding materials like wire mesh, bamboo, or wood. Plaster is then applied through a cement, lime, or clay mixture. By doing this, it can actually provide load bearing support for buildings.

There are a few advantages of using straw bale walls. Construction is often quicker than regular methods as stacking bales does not take a lot of skill. Using this method saves 15% of the wood used in a normal timber framed home. However, the cost of creating a straw bale walled house can be quite expensive compared to normal construction due to the specialized plastering required on both sides of the wall.

Straw bales are great for wall insulation. This is common in cold and wet regions, especially if it snows, as the potential weight of snow can outweigh the load bearing ability of straw bales. In addition, straw absorbs moisture so it is theoretically possible that mold can accumulate. As a result, the straw will eventually rot so there can be immense damage to the building. Not only that, but it can be hazardous to health if the walls are so moldy that it causes bad air quality.

There are many advantages to using straw bales for construction purposes and it is making a comeback for those who want unique homes. It is a great method for those who live in areas where straw is plentiful and is cheap as the thick straw bale walls provide insulation. It is also great for those who live in earthquake prone areas, as straw houses are more stable and safer than brick homes.

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