Description
Book SynopsisAn updated, fully revised, full-colour edition of the definitive manual on building with straw bales, described by Grand Designs as an ''essential guide''. Straw-bale buildings are cost-effective, easy to build and highly energy efficient, enabling you to design and build beautiful, environmentally friendly buildings. Written with non-experts in mind, Barbara Jones uses her years of experience in natural building methods to guide self-builders and architects building with straw as a sustainable material for a diverse range of comfortable and environmentally friendly buildings.
Building with Straw Bales takes you through everything you need to know in an easy, accessible way. This includes design principles, the different types of foundations, how to raise and stabilise walls and protect them from the weather, including a detailed analysis of how straw performs with humidity and how straw bale buildings can easily meet building regulation requirements, as well as detailed i
Trade ReviewPractical advice and guidance throughout the book, on each key aspect of straw bale construction, makes this the perfect accompaniment to inspiring and then achieving success in your own build project. * Helen Gribbon, engineer and director of Renaissance Associates Ltd *
If you have an urge to build a planet-friendly house that will give you great pleasure and satisfaction both to construct and to live in, then this is the book for you. * Cliff Blundell *
Barbara Jones is the UK’s most experienced straw bale builder. In this clear and practical book, she shares her years of practical wisdom and offers would-be builders, architects and planners a detailed understanding of how and why to build with straw bales. * Ben Law, woodsman, author and eco-builder *
Table of ContentsWhy build with straw bales? Affordable houses Low environmental impact Building techniques explained Designing with the bale in mind Cement free foundation Keeping the straw dry Wall raising Windows and doors Compression Carpentry for load-bearing buildings The roof Services, fixings and alcoves Lime and clay plasters Planning and permission Building regulations
