Advice on Building a Straw Bale House

By Chris Magwood, Peter Mack and Tina Therrien

It may sound odd, but walls made from plaster-coated straw bales are a popular alternative building option. Advocates say straw bale houses are attractive, affordable, energy efficient, environmentally friendly and can be designed in many styles. Here are expert answers to common questions about straw bale homes, provided by Chris Magwood, Peter Mack and Tina Therrien, authors of the new book, More Straw Bale Building.

Fireproof? Tests have confirmed that straw bale walls are naturally fire resistant. When straw is compacted into bales, there's not enough air for the straw to burn well. The plaster coating seals the bales into a noncombustible casing.

Moisture? The plaster coating on straw bale walls prevents moisture migration through walls, and proper construction techniques, such as raising the bale walls off the foundation and onto a wooden curb, will ensure that any spills or floods inside the house will not soak into the walls.

Pests? The ideal homes for pests offer openings, nests and food?all of which are not found in properly maintained straw bale walls. Plaster seals the bales with a protective barrier against pests. Should a gap be left open, the densely packed bales discourage rodents from making it their home. Stick-frame walls make a much more inviting space for pests, especially when the walls are packed with soft batt insulation.

Building Costs? Because bales are more user friendly than other wall systems, you can save on labor costs on new construction by doing the work yourself. Most people combine hired help with their own labor and that of family, friends and neighbors.