While people use concrete, wood and brick to build the most comfortable homes, an East Boise builder Mark Lung has used straw bales for constructing his house at 1312 E. Franklin Street. Instead of fiberglass insulation, he has used straw bales within the frames of each wall. This is because straw provides a cheaper, energy-efficient and eco-friendly way to keep homes cooler in summer and warm during winter.
The 980-square-feet home is expected to reduce heating and cooling costs by ten times, as compared to conventional homes. Average power bills for usual houses are nearly $1,200 a year, but according to Lung his house will lower down the energy costs to $65. Thus, it will be an ideal housing solution for low cost energy-efficient homes.
Besides lower than average insulation cost, the home is built to provide all basic amenities to the homeowners. There is a tankless natural gas water heater, as well as solar heating panels to fulfill additional heating requirements of the house.
Moreover, this south-facing house includes two extra-large windows to bring in natural sunlight into the living room. In addition, extra vents and fans are equipped to push appropriate amount of heat towards bedroom, bath and kitchen during winter. However, the same procedure will be followed in summer to spread cool air into the entire home.
It is a great way to maintain optimum temperature within the house throughout the year, that too without spending too much amount on bills or maintenance.
Walls insulated with straw bales
Straw bales keep the house cool in summer and warm during winter
Via: NWCN
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