As world resources become increasingly scarce, we need to make every reasonable effort to protect our environment. Here is a brief description of some of these featured materials. One of the primary benefits of building with straw bales are the lower utility costs over the life of the building. Several states have already adopted straw bale building codes. Because straw bale construction offers so much potential in lowering construction and energy costs and minimizing damage to the environment, it is featured here as the most important building material in this project.
Straw is an annually renewable natural material, the by-product of harvested grains.
Using straw reduces logging of our forests and scenic areas. Lower life cycle costs. Homeowners can save tens of thousands of dollars over 30 years with reduced construction, maintenance, financing and energy costs. Higher insulation values. Resistance to fire.