In a straw bale house, straw and plaster replace the wood for the walls, the insulation and the dry wall. Man-made fiberglass insulation, which never breaks down in landfills and may cause similar lung problems as asbestos, is no longer needed. Learning as you go Many people who utilize straw bale construction save money over traditional construction methods because materials are less expensive, and they can build the home themselves. Sister Ann Sullivan, director of White Violet Center for Eco-Justice, said one alternative is to have a construction workshop where skilled straw bale builders come in and train those interested in learning. Houses built in this fashion are often complete in about a week, Sister Ann said.
Cement is applied over wire to act as the base for the exterior of the straw bale abode.
This proved a bit more difficult than expected. A second house, which is planned if funding becomes available, could share these lines and thus cut costs, Phil said. Exterior after construction awaiting final layers of stucco and paint and some landscaping. The finished result The purpose of the house is to provide simple housing for those making a retreat. It has two small bedrooms, each with a bed, little closet and chest of drawers.