The green building mania makes people think of many options. Environmentally friendly products and construction methods make a lot of sense, but can you go too far? Bunker houses, coke bottle houses, and…well, hay bale houses have all made headlines. should they make it its house construction plans
Ask: What is a hay bale house and do they work?
Answer:
Have you ever considered a hay bale house? Have you scoffed at the idea in the past? Most have. But, the benefits make some people seriously consider the possibility.
The truth is that hale bale houses are not that popular. They still represent a small fraction of the custom home building market. No one really knows if they will achieve wider acceptance.
What is a hay bale house?
Well, as you suggest, it’s a house made of hay. At least in part. Hay can act as an insulator and as a structural force. The outer walls are built of large giant blocks (of hay!) stacked one on top of the other, and the thickness (and other qualities) provide insulation from hot and cold.
Usually, a structure of sticks is built along with the hay bales. This provides a more definable value so that the structure can be properly inspected and judged for its strength. But, this is not always the case.
Do they work? Well, in terms of isolation, yes, they can definitely work. And they can be made structurally sound, complying with building codes.
The biggest benefits include:
- Availability and cost
- Isolation factors
- Owner Builder Participation
Before going ahead with this idea, check with your local building authorities to find out what their requirements might be to inspect and approve such a home.
