Cohousing-L Mailing List: Green Building: Straw Bale

[Grace Benjamin (grey_sea]

Hello Marya!

I seem to always pick up on the end of discussions, and I'm too 
energetically challenged to read the archives, so please forgive me if this 
is repeated information about Straw Bale (SB).  As far as permitting, and 
obtaining a mortgage; the overall track record IS pretty dismal.  However- 
there are development firms that work only in SB and other alternative 
materials- they are having good, sometimes great results.  They are located 
mostly in the south west, but my impression is that most of them are open to 
some travelling for a good project.  Try su*bing to the SB list, most of the 
professionals in the field su*scribe, and read regularly.  Here's the 
address-

strawbale [at] crest.org

As far as care in dealing with straw as a building material- like every 
material, there are benefits and drawbacks; and there are proper methods for 
dealing with the material.  But straw isn't any more endangered by water 
damage than conventional stud frames or any other material; all of them 
should be kept as dry as possible.  Keeping your framing dry before sealing 
isn't a special problem unique to SB.  Additionally, my experience and 
understanding is that whatever kind of straw grows in your area, is 
compatible for building in your area.  It is hay that you want to avoid....  
But I digress.

All in all, I just wanted to write and encourage you and others to go for it 
with the SB thing if they felt any passion for the idea- its a terrific way 
to build!  Best of luck to you!  Now... are there any cob enthusiasts 
reading?!?!

Best wishes to everyone-

Grace

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