Answers to frequently-asked questions

Benefits of using of straw bales in building construction include the following: Plastered straw-bale construction creates long lasting, superinsulated (generally R-40 and R-50), fire-resistant housing at per-square-foot costs less than those of traditional methods. The energy savings for space cooling and/or heating continue to accrue for the life of the structure. Although inherently less expensive, even when used by a professional builder, the technique is particularly owner-builder friendly. The wall-raising can easily be done by the owner and friends to eliminate the labor costs for this phase. Caution this is only a wall system, the costs involved in your foundation, roof system & finishing are basically the same. The emissions from eventual burning or decomposition of the straw are postponed. Like wood, straw is produced by photosynthesis, a natural, non-polluting process fueled by solar energy. Unlike wood, straw is an annually renewable agricultural residue often considered a waste product. The substitution of bales for lumber could relieve pressures to log old-growth forest and scenic recreational areas. The substitution of straw for the raw materials required to make the other most common types of wall-insulation material save processing energy and oil, and avoids the recently documented health hazards for workers involved in the manufacture and placement of fiberglass insulation. It is ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY! Source: OUT ON BALE 1039 E. Linden Street, Tucson, Arizona 85719 Phone (502) 624-1673; email Outonbale@AOL.com. A resource center, providing educational tools for those interested in enviornmental friendly home construction.