Category Archives: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are soma basics to natural building

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  What is the R value of Straw Bale Walls?

  Posted on August 13, 2012 by somaearth in Earth Plasters, Frequently Asked Questions, Natural Building, Straw Bale Building, Sustainable

  Straw bales provide a thicker wall that is sealed in with plaster, which gives an R value in a range of 25-35+ compared to the typical stick frame home that has an 18-20 R value. This range is dependent on whether the straw bale is stacked on edge or flat and the type of plaster coating that [...]

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  Straw Bale Fire Ratings

  Posted on August 13, 2012 by somaearth in Frequently Asked Questions, Natural Building, Sustainable

  Straw in a field or in a loose pile could be flammable.  Once it is compressed into a dense block it starts to slow down and smolder & smoke more due to the lack of airflow in the centre.  And as soon as it get’s sealed in a plastered wall system, it reduces the risk [...]

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