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Step 1
Keep the straw bales in a dry area while you are constructing the house. If possible, set the straw bales on a raised area to keep the bottom dry and away from insects. The design of your straw bale house must include rebar that protrudes from the foundation. The rebar needs to be high enough to protrude out of the first bale and into the second bale by 4 to 6 inches.
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Step 2
Carry the straw bale to the foundation carefully. Don't jostle the straw bale as you carry it because the bale itself can lose its density. Twine, wire or plastic is used to hold the straw bale together tightly. If the bale is dropped, kicked or jostled too much, it can get loose.
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Step 3
Position the straw bale over the rebar and gently push the straw bale down onto the rebar. Make sure the bale goes all the way down to the base. The starting point of setting the straw bales will be determined when designing your straw bale house. Straw bales are set like bricks; the joints are staggered for strength and stability.
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Step 4
Set the bottom row of straw bales to the pre-determined ending point. Set the next row of straw bales on top of the first row, with the rebar from the first row protruding into the second. Make sure the second row of straw bales is even with the first row; this will give your walls a straight appearance.
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Step 5
Insert a long length of rebar or bamboo into the very last bale on top. The long piece of rebar is placed into the straw bale at an angle, then wound down through the bales, almost as though you were sewing the bales together. You may need to use a hammer to move the rebar through the straw bale. Use this technique on all the walls in your straw bale house for a strong and sturdy home.
