Straw-built house: 6 points to consider

Straw-built houses are becoming more popular again. Straw-built houses offer attractive advantages, but it's important to carefully consider the key considerations. Everything must be in perfect order. Thinking of buying a straw-built house? Always have a building inspection performed, which will examine the most important points. This way, you'll always be sure before you buy the house.

Advantages and points of interest for a straw-built house

Houses were already being built with straw walls a century ago. So, it's certainly not new, but the method is gaining popularity again. This is mainly due to the advantages of straw-built houses. Straw, for example, offers excellent insulation on all levels and is easier to install than a brick wall. The temperature inside the house remains consistently pleasant thanks to the breathable properties of straw, and it is fully recyclable upon demolition. Straw is very affordable and can be sourced locally in the vast majority of cases. In short, there are quite a few attractive advantages. Are you considering buying a straw-built house? Be sure to pay close attention to the key considerations for this type of house. We've outlined the three most important ones.

1. Were the straw bales processed dry?

Straw offers excellent insulation benefits. The indoor temperature remains pleasant year-round, and you'll also experience less noise pollution. It all sounds ideal, but problems can easily arise with straw-built homes. If straw wasn't completely dry when it was applied, there's a risk that the straw bales will develop mold. Rotting straw is the last thing you want in your home.

2. Have the straw bales been processed correctly?

The straw bales must, of course, be properly incorporated into the building. Contractors and architects are often unfamiliar with working with straw. This can lead to errors in the installation process. It's important to carefully check to what extent the straw bales have been correctly incorporated into the straw walls.

3. How strong are the straw walls?

Thatched walls are less strong than brick walls, for example. This is certainly a point to consider. For example, do you have a large wall unit in your current home that needs to be mounted to the wall, and do you want to move this piece of furniture to your new thatched house? Then the thatched wall might not be able to support the weight of the furniture. This would mean you would have to replace the piece.

Would you like to make an appointment for a building inspection?

The cost of a building inspection (up to 250 m²) is only €489 including VAT. We'll conduct a comprehensive building inspection and you'll receive a building report. Do you have any questions? We're happy to help and can schedule an appointment with an expert inspector right away if you wish!

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