Monitoring of the moisture content of straw bale walls

Abstract

This paper describes an investigation into moisture levels in straw bale walls used to clad a newly constructed building. The moisture content was monitored up to 10 months after the building was handed over. The sensors used for this purpose were readily available, low cost and easily installed. The moisture levels fluctuate during the first 4 months following installation of the instrumentation, followed by a period of greater stability where it is believed that the straw acts as a moisture buffer, managing the humidity levels within the building and contributing to a healthier internal environment. This ongoing study makes a contribution towards raising confidence levels in the use of straw bales as low carbon building material in mainstream construction.