There are hundreds of straw bale houses all over Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado and some other states that are well over a hundred years old and still inhabited. Trees being scarce on the plains, straw bale construction was used extensively, in both load bearing compressed bale and post and fill. These homes are quiet, energy efficient, and structurally sound. They cost less to build than typical methods. Have better fire resistance, rodents are not a problem because straw have no food value.
Thanks for your interest. The straw bale panels have been tested for fire safety and they are remarkably difficult to burn. This is because the straw is packed so tightly that there's not enough oxygen in the gaps to set it alight. After 2 hours in a furnace, the panels were only slightly singed!
It may be a good idea, but it is unlikely that these will ever be built at least where I live. First, no home insurance company would ever cover such a thing. Second, the house would not be considered to be code. Third, can it withstand hurricane force winds?
Hi, I work for ModCell . co . uk who make the panels. I can help answer the points raised.
I) insurance is available. Harder thanr brick and mortar buildings but is not difficult to find.
2) There are a number of buildings already built and all comply or exceed UK building regulations (see website) including a 2hr 15min fire rating, double the UK requirement
3) The ModCell panels have undergone sheer testing (ie wind testing) and exceed the standards
There are hundreds of straw bale houses all over Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado and some other states that are well over a hundred years old and still inhabited. Trees being scarce on the plains, straw bale construction was used extensively, in both load bearing compressed bale and post and fill. These homes are quiet, energy efficient, and structurally sound. They cost less to build than typical methods. Have better fire resistance, rodents are not a problem because straw have no food value.
Nicodemus98 1 year ago
without oxygen i agree. thanks for the info.
jonmikal 1 year ago
not to mention fuel load for a magnificent fire ball!
jonmikal 1 year ago
Hi,
Thanks for your interest. The straw bale panels have been tested for fire safety and they are remarkably difficult to burn. This is because the straw is packed so tightly that there's not enough oxygen in the gaps to set it alight. After 2 hours in a furnace, the panels were only slightly singed!
Best wishes, Uni of Bath Comms Team
UniofBath 1 year ago 2
It may be a good idea, but it is unlikely that these will ever be built at least where I live. First, no home insurance company would ever cover such a thing. Second, the house would not be considered to be code. Third, can it withstand hurricane force winds?
MardiGrasinMobile 2 years ago
Hi, I work for ModCell . co . uk who make the panels. I can help answer the points raised.
I) insurance is available. Harder thanr brick and mortar buildings but is not difficult to find.
2) There are a number of buildings already built and all comply or exceed UK building regulations (see website) including a 2hr 15min fire rating, double the UK requirement
3) The ModCell panels have undergone sheer testing (ie wind testing) and exceed the standards
I hope this clarifies things
fwhitex2632 2 years ago
Good stuff, straw bail // hemp for the win!
Nikg420 2 years ago