Learn more about New Bedford's history. It is also ideal for the environment because it uses recycled waste straw that would otherwise be disposed of. Several family members can usually erect all the walls for an average size house in a day or two. The walls of a finished straw bale house have an insulation value of R-50 so utility bills are extremely low.
Straw bales are stagger stacked on top of one another, similar to bricks, to create the walls.
The interior and exterior are usually finished with cement, plaster or stucco to create a strong attractive house. With two-foot thick walls, nearly all outdoor noise is blocked. Straw, waste stalks from wheat, rye, etc. When straw is compacted into bales, it is very strong. Since there is no food value left, animals and insects do not attack it.