Straw Bale Houses
This is only the second development in the country where affordable homes are being built using straw bales.This project demonstrates that straw bale homes can be built at a reasonable cost and perform significantly better than traditional build.
The development is based in Martin, Lincolnshire. This homes will tap into the philosophy of low impact and minimal carbon living.
We will share the knowledge gained during this project to encourage the uptake of this form of construction on a wider scale.
Key features
Straw bale houses are constructed to last 200 years.
The straw assures an excellent insulation to the walls. Moreover, the properties will be fitted with triple glazed windows and double glazed doors. Houses will be heated by a log burning boiler. There will not be any radiators or underfloor heating required apart from in the bathroom area.
We have also used sheep’s wool insulation which is more environmentally friendly than traditional insulation. Log burning stove, supported by solar panels, will provide hot water. We will fit this house with facilities to collect rain water and recycle it for flushing the toilets and washing machine supply.
Eco supply chain
When sourcing materials to construct the two houses in Martin we took into consideration how they are produced and what carbon footprint is connected to their transport. For example:
• The straw comes from the site four miles away form Martin
• Gravel was sourced locally
• All timber comes from well managed sustainable sources compliant with Forest Stewardship Council.
• Sheep’s wool introduced as insulation uses 86 percent less energy to produce than traditional insulation.
• Recycled newspapers used as roof insulation take up to 200 less kw/m3 energy to produce than fibreglass and Rockwool insulation.
