Hi All,

I'm currently studying Environmental Building Surveying at the University of Plymouth and we have been given the task of designing a sustainable development in the heart of the city. We are planning to use straw bales as an infill to a timber frame structure. I am looking into the provisions required for natural ventilation and wondered if any members knew of resources or had knowledge on this subject. My main queries are these:

Does the breathable wall provide sufficient airflow to avoid the need for trickle vents?

If so is there any data you know of to support this?

Any precautions or issues that need to be addressed at the design stage in regards to ventilation.

I would particular appreciate any comments from occupants of straw bale dwellings on all issues experienced with straw bales, good or bad.

Thank you for your time and i look forward to the responses.

All the best James

I saw a documentary about a man building a straw bale house. He used lime plaster. I have to use lime in my house because it is very old and is designed to let the moisture flow in and out. We cannot use modern paints because they trap the moisture in the walls which then makes them rot.
Lime is used for rendering inside and out, is a fantastic material because it bends with any movement of the building.
I use one part wet lime to three parts sharp sand to one part volcanic ash (forgotten the product name for it but it is for making it go hard.)
For internal plastering they traditionally put horse hair in as well for strength.
I cannot say how it relates to specific building regulations but it bloody works the walls breathe brilliantly and it is very long lasting.

Hi James

Recently visited Jim Carfrae's straw bale self build in Totnes. He has done lots of research and gained lots of experience in his build. It may be worth making contact, as he may be able to help.

I have found this link to his project. http://www.sustainablebuild.org/documents/jim_carfrae.pdf

and this link for contact details. http://lowimpacthousing.com/housing/action.lasso?-Response=search05.lasso&ID=1432

Jaxz

James
I suggest browsing this, lots of knowledge out there: http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/