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Eco-lingo is being tossed around left and right these days. We're demystifying common terms to help you figure out which words are the real deal... and which are just green jargon.
Today's word: Straw Bale House
Definition: Like most of these terms, the name says it all, yet can tell you nothing. Straw bale houses are... houses built using bales of straw. Of course! But what would possess someone to do such a thing? Well, straw makes for excellent insulation, reduces your energy costs and -- bonus! -- it's cheap. If you're thinking that straw walls sound especially susceptible to fire, take note -- the straw is coated with plaster and the bales are packed so tightly that there's not enough oxygen for the spontaneous combustion you may be worried about. The real issue here is actually the opposite problem: the straw getting wet. If it's not dry when installed, or if the plaster isn't sealed tightly enough, you run the risk of your straw bale walls decomposing. Yuck! There's plenty of informative videos over on Straw Bale if you're considering building a new home -- or starting an intense remodel.
The Verdict: No one will huff and puff and blow your straw bale house down. This, if done right, is the real thing.
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Reader comments (Page 1 of 1)
Straw Bale Homes are amazing! Some other great details would be their sound proofing abilities. They also employ a waste product as the main insulation which is a double gain. You can learn tons more at www.StrawBale.com or learn hands on with me in a comprehensive, seven day workshop. Check out www.StrawBaleWorkshops.com for dates and a location near you.
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