BU530 Straw bale construction (2010)
Product Description
When used appropriately in construction, straw bales provide high levels of insulation and can help to keep a home quiet as well as warm in winter and cool in summer. Straw bales have low embodied energy and are a renewable/sustainable building product.
This bulletin provides a broad overview of what straw bale construction involves, some advantages and disadvantages of straw bales as a building material and where to find more detailed information and help. It is not a specific design guide for straw bale construction. It replaces Bulletin 398 of the same name.
The bulletin covers:
- construction techniques
- construction principles, including foundation, wall structure, windows and doors, roof design and wall finishes
- common concerns.