Image via WikipediaBy Andrew HiltonThe benefits of straw bale construction become quite staggering when compared to most traditional construction methods. Straw bale has captured the interest and passions of thousands who realized the multitude of benefits and decided to take action.
Some of the benefits include, ease of construction, extremely energy efficient, fantastic durability, non-toxic, a rapidly renewable resource, affordability, as well as beauty and comfort. To touch on the latter, have you ever experienced a straw bale constructed home first hand? If not, as a lover of sustainability and our built environment I highly encourage you to take the chance when you can.
As an architect straw bale delivers everything I could possibly want out of a building material while taking into consideration our scarce resources. Lets touch on a few of the benefits mentioned above.
Ease of construction - Requiring very little skilled labor straw bale becomes a very construction friendly material. Some materials like rammed earth are great as well, however the labor alone with skyrocket your labor cost when dealing with rammed earth - and lets face it, you want maximum bang for your buck when designing or remodeling your dream home.
Energy Efficient - We all want a building envelope which is extremely energy efficient and delivers quality. Straw bale construction often measures 4-5 times higher in R-value (resistance to the transfer of heat) than conventional construction, resulting in a better insulated home as well as a smaller heating or cooling load - again, saving you money!
Durability - Ever picked up a bale of hay? Probably not, as these are quite heavy and will stay put when put in place. With typical construction methods on straw bale the exterior is covered with an adobe like plaster which is very resistant to outside weather as it limits the amount of cracks and opening for air infiltration.
Non-Toxic - If you are at all sensitive to chemical and synthetic materials you will love these types of homes. If you go the route of some other products such as S.I.P. panels (Structural Insulated Panels) you run into the issue of the foams, glues and various bonding materials that go into the overall component, resulting in a higher V.O.C. rating, irritating your sensitive self even more. With straw bale rest assured that you and your family are living in a clean, healthy and well insulated home.
Affordability - I know this is a big kicker for most people looking at building or remodeling their home. In most cases building with straw is right on cue with conventional construction while simultaneously providing all the benefits mentioned above. Now that is something to get excited about!
Beauty and Elegance - Again, if you have not been inside or visited a home built with this invaluable material I urge you to do so. As in art, buildings, music and other various arts, there is something you can't quite pin-point about straw bale construction that can quite literally take your breath away. Check out this interior photo and see for yourself just what a final product can be.
In conclusion, straw bale is a far superior building material providing you with an affordable, energy efficient, durable, non-toxic and beautiful home.
Thinking of implementing energy efficient or renewable energy measures into your home? Trying to find the resources you need to make the right decision? With multiple years of experience in Architecture, Design and sustainable building, Andrew Hilton can help guide you to your COST SAVING, energy SAVING and healthier home, today. Click Here to find the highest ROI strategies you can implement to get the maximum savings you and our planet deserve!
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