DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF STRAW BALE HOUSE

A Project Study Presented to the College of Engineering

Our Lady of Fatima University
City of San Fernando, Pampanga

In Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

BY:

MANLICLIC, EUGENE P.
PEÑA, MARIA ISABELLA G.
MACAPAGAL, GRACIELA MAY B.
AQUINO, DARWIN P.
MANINANG, PAOLO REYNALDO R.

March 2017

i
 APPROVAL SHEET

This project study entitled DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF STRAW BALE

HOUSE prepared and submitted by DARWIN P. AQUINO, GRACIELA MAY B.
MACAPAGAL, PAOLO REYNALDO R. MANINANG, EUGENE P. MANLICLIC
and MARIA ISABELLA G. PEÑA in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
degree of BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING has been
examined and is recommended for Oral Examination.

__________________________
ENGR. ERNESTO Q. VILLARICA
Adviser

Approved by the Committee on Oral Examination with the grade of _____.

PANEL OF EXAMINERS

_________________________
ENGR. OLIVER C. CELIS
Chairman

_________________________ _______________________________
ENGR. ALFRED C. SANTOS ENGR. ANN KRISCHEL S. HIPOLITO
Member Member

Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the

degree of BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING.

MARCH 2017 ENGR. OLIVER C. CELIS

DEAN

ii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

It is with deep appreciation that the proponents express their thanks to the

following individuals that have extended their valuable assistance and inspiration

for this study to be possible. This study would have been in vain without the hell

of other persons. The authors would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the

following persons:

To Engr. Oliver C. Celis, Dean of Civil Engineer and department chair of

Civil Engineering Department for enhancing the confidence of the researchers

and support them in the pursuance of this study.

To Engr. Alfred C. Santos and Engr. Ann Krischel Hipolito, their

panelists, who unselfishly provided the researchers with helpful suggestions and

comments that greatly improved this research.

To the adviser, Engr. Ernesto Villarica, for his support in leading and

sharing his pearls of wisdom, suggestions and his precious time with the

researchers, and for the motivation to successfully finish this study at the

appointed time.

To Boy Kabildo, Dodong Manliclic and Ontan Catli, their masons and

carpenters, for their expertise, time and effort for building the Straw Bale House.

To the friends and classmates for all the support that they have given. To

their parents and members of their family for their endless patience,

iii
understanding, and support which gave them inspiration and strength to finish

the study.

And above all, to our Almighty God, our strong pillar, our source of life,

love, hope and indebted for the inspiration. The one who gives us wisdom,

strength, motivation and courage to achieve and make this study possible.

iv
 DEDICATION

This research work is dedicated to their beloved parents, brother, sister,

classmates and friend who encouraged and motivated the researchers, to

accomplish this humble piece of work and, above all, to Almighty God, our

source of strength and inspiration. Without Him, everything is impossible.

Eugene

Isabella

Graciela

Darwin

Paolo

v
 Design and Development of Straw Bale House
Eugene P. Manliclic, Maria Isabella G. Peña, Graciela May B. Macapagal, Darwin P. Aquino,
Paolo Reynaldo R. Maninang
Civil Engineering Department
Our Lady of Fatima University, Pampanga Campus
Dela Paz Norte, City of San Fernando, Pampanga
Email: eugenemanliclic2@yahoo.com, isabelladgpena2@yahoo.com, gracielamacapagal5@gmail.com,
darwin.aquino082413@gmail.com, gwapaolo@gmail.com

Abstract: This research aimed to design and develop a straw bale house, to enhance the understanding
and develop the modern mainstream acceptance of using rice straw as a construction material.

Rice Straw is a renewable material both from ecological and environmental point of view,
construction sustainability is a theme that gaining considerable attention since the introduction of
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2030. Most of the researchers are incorporating SDG, such as
sustainable consumption, as an example consumption of natural resources and utilization of wastes. The
material chosen has the potential to reduce the building’s initial environmental impact by utilizing
agricultural wastes such as rice straw as a replacement to concrete hollow blocks in the construction of a
more affordable, eco-friendly, and sustainable homes.

In this study, the researchers designed and developed the methods of compaction straws and
method of installation of baled rice straw as load-bearing walls of a house. The mock house constructed in
Barangay San Nicholas, Pampanga, serves as a proof that innovation and continuous researches on
alternative cheaper construction materials is still possible.

Keywords: eco-house, eco-homes, sustainable construction materials, straw bale house

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 Table of Contents

Page

Title Page i

Approval Sheet ii

Acknowledgement iv

Dedication v

Abstract vi

Table of Contents vii

List of Figures x

Chapter I The Project and Its Background

Introduction 1

Background of the Study 2

Objectives and the Study 4

Significance of the Study 5

Scope and Delimitation 6

Definitions of Terms 6

vii
Chapter II Review of Related Literature

Conceptual Literature 8

Related Literature 13

Synthesis 14

Conceptual Framework 15

Conceptual Paradigm 16

Chapter III Research Design and Procedures

Research Design Method 17

Preparation Stage 17

Design and Construction Stage 18

Methods of Design 21

Chapter IV Discussion of Design and Development Process

Design Process 28

Assembly and Construction Process 34

Cost Analysis 38

viii
Chapter V Summary and Findings, Conclusion

Summary 42

Conclusions 43

Recommendations 44

BIBLIOGRAPHY 45

APPENDICES

Appendix A Documentations

Appendix B Grammarian’s Certificate

Appendix C Curriculum Vitae

ix
 LIST OF FIGURES

TITLE PAGE

Figure 1. Hay and Rice Straw 2

Figure 2. Don’t Burn Rice Straw 3

Figure 3. Rice 9

Figure 4. Rice Straw 9

Figure 5. Straw Bales 10

Figure 6. Straw Bale House 11

Figure 7. Straw Bale Construction 12

Figure 8. Diagram of Straw Bale House Construction 12

Figure 9. Straw Bales 28

Figure 10. Good Lumber 29

Figure 11. Vertical Bar 31

Figure 12. Welded Screen Wire 32

Figure 13. Gable Roof 33

Figure 14. The 7F’s of construction Process of Straw Bale House 34

x
 CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

Innovative house designs nowadays continue to rise and these

advancements where brought to us by house building technology and materials

as well as new architectural concepts which slowly changes the definition of

Filipino house. Looking back before the industrial revolution, houses walls are

made up from straw bales and plastered with clay were made available. The

researchers found out how they can help in the utilization of waste materials from

the environment, transforming it into useful product. Rural places in the

Philippines like Pampanga, landlocked of rice fields and hectares of undeveloped

land can be found. The researchers tried to help in reducing air pollution from

burning rice straw in the fields so the researchers decided to use rice straw to

produce straw bale house that were made in other countries.

In a particular rice fields, rice grains were harvested every 90 days after

planting. Rice straw is a part of a rice plant that is vegetative and being cut during

grain harvest. Rice straw and hay are similar in nature but they are completely

different things. Hay is a grown grass to be mown and dried to use as a fodder or

an animal feed while rice straw is discarded as a waste and left in the rice fields

after harvesting rice grains. The main difference of rice straw and hay is that hay

is an actual product, whereas rice straw is a leftover by after its main purpose is

1
 done. Disposal of rice straw becomes a problem for farmers. Researches

agreed to make a new material by bailing the rice straw to form a straw bale

house.

Nowadays straw bales can be used as an effective construction material.

Other advantages of straw bale house among other types of houses are that they

have high insulation and renewable. In addition to this, it is made up from

agricultural product making it cheap. And also, the process of construction is

simple and can be done easily by anyone.

Figure 1. Hay and Rice Straw

Background of the Study

In this modern day, many Filipinos are struggling to build a proper home

for the reasons that they don’t have enough income to buy construction materials

and that they don’t have enough knowledge about how transforming waste

2
materials into useful products such as rice straw. Continuous burning of rice

straw gives interest to the researchers to its potential in making straw bale house

plastered with cement.

The researchers also became interested in the article of the Philippine

Rice Research Institute entitled, “Don’t Burn Rice Straw”, because burning of rice

straw decreases 5-60% sulfur, 25% phosphorus, 20% potassium, and soil

nitrogen and harms beneficial insects by damaging source of food.

Straw bales uniformly distribute dampness into rooms and due to its

renewable property it is used in other green construction. The insulation value of

straw bale house exceeds conventional houses while the sound insulation

maintains silence inside the house. A pre-compressed straw bale assumes

wood’s characteristics. According to Realigro Real Estate, some straw houses

were hundred years ago built but still in good condition, so it can surely last for at

least century.

Figure 2. “Don’t Burn Rice Straw”

3
Objective of the Study

The researchers aimed to design and develop straw bale house by

utilizing rice straw as a straw bale.

Specially, the study aims to answer the following questions:

1. What are the properties of straw bale?

1.1. Physical Properties

1.1.1 Design

1.1.2 Dimension

2. What are the properties of straw bale house?

2.1 Material Properties

1.1.1 Insulation

1.1.2 Fire Properties

2.2 Physical Properties

2.2.1 Design

2.2.2 Dimension

2.2.3 Thickness of Plastering

3. How does the straw bale house compare with standard conventional

house in terms of properties?

4. How does the straw bale house compare with standard conventional

house in terms of construction cost?

4
Significance of the Study

To the Filipino Community, this study provides how they can help with the

use of waste product from the environment, transforming it into useful product

specially in making straw bale house. It also provides another source of income

by simply collecting rice straw and using it as a raw material in the construction

straw bale house.

To the Construction Industry, the study improves the standard

conventional houses and to develop straw bale house in the Philippines. Straw

bales are easy to transport to construction site and very light compared to other

building materials such as concrete, steel, and wood.

To Civil Engineering Department of Our Lady of Fatima University, this will

serve as a reference that they can impart to students; this will set the Civil

Engineering students in discovering new ideas that can be useful to economy

and how they can assess other people by building this useful product.

And to researchers, this study will help them to gain knowledge in

designing straw bale house, particularly the use of rice straw. It also serves as a

source of information to other researchers who would like to deal with similar

concepts and ideas.

5
Scope and Delimitation of the Study

The main focus of this study was the design of Straw Bale House. The

process will be using stages and techniques to design and to develop an actual

construction. The 7F’s construction is formulated but is limited only in one storey

house that will be utilized in an open environment or area. Calculations and

selections were made for accurate and realistic design. And by comparing straw

bale house in a standard conventional house, the physical and mechanical

properties may determine.

And also, the structural computation of straw bale house is not included in

the scope and it is delimited since the given proposal is only a bungalow house

or only a one storey house. And for bungalow house or one storey house, the

structural computation is not required.

Definition of Terms

For better understanding of the terms used in this study, the following key

terms are hereby defined:

Combustion- the process of burning that produces heat.

Design- it is the expected physical outcome of a building or structure.

Development- the process of growing to become more advance or

creating to made more advance.

6
 Novice- a beginner; one who is not very familiar for experience in a

particular subject; one unacquainted or unskilled.

Plaster- it is use to smoothen the surface of house made up from straw

bale, it can be rustic or smooth finish.

Rice Straw- it is the byproduct of rice plant and left in the farm after

harvesting the grains.

Standard Conventional House- it is a most common type of home

building. The entire home is constructed on the building site and offers the most

flexibility for house designing.

Straw Bale- a molded giant bricks that tightly wrapped bundle of rice

straw bound with twine or wire.

Straw Bale House- it is a building or a house that is made up from straw

bales commonly used in natural building construction project.

Strength- is something can be the measure of how much force or

pressure it can withstand over time or its potency, or its intensity level.

7
 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The review of the related literature is from both foreign and local sources.

It is composed of the conceptual literature, the synthesis, and the conceptual

framework.

Conceptual Literature

The researchers reviewed relevant concepts found in various literatures

which are presented in this section.

Rice. It has been cultivated since ancient times and considered as the

highest importance among other crops in the world. It came from the grass

species known as Oryza Sativa or Asian Rice which can grow from 1m-1.8m tall

depending on the variety and fertility of the soil. Aside from growing in wet soil or

in standing water, it grows also with environment similar with other grain such as

wheat and oats.

Based on the studies of Purdue University, rice is the main source of food

in half of the world’s population and is consumed widely in large part of Asia. It is

the third highest production after sugarcane and maize.

8
 Figure 3. Rice

Rice Straw. Rice straw is a part of a plant that is vegetative and being cut

during grain harvest. It can be left and burned in field. 0.7-1.4 kilos of rice straw

are produced in each kilogram of milled rice. After plants threshed manually or

using stationary or combine threshers, rice is being separated from grains.

Figure 4. Rice Straw

9
 Straw Bales. Straw bales are tightly packed inside series of wooden wall

frames, dried and slotted like giant lego piece and is made of long straw fibers

that is densely packed.

Compression of straw bale is done using a straw baler to produce a single

block. Straw bale should be a tightly bounded bundle of rice straw using twine or

wire with the great aid of the molder which is the straw baler. Instead of burning

rice straw, it is better to utilized them to produce a single block.

Figure 5. Straw Bales

Straw Bale House. Straw bale house has renewable nature that can be

use as structural element in green construction project. If the straw bale house is

used to replace the traditional stick-frame house, it is way affordable and

cheaper. With its organic nature and great insulation value, straw bale house is

far different than conventional house.

10
 It is much safer than conventional wood construction because of the

coverings of the walls. The plaster as covering of the wall can protect the straw

bale from the elements like sunlight, rain, and fire.

Figure 6. Straw Bale House

Straw Bale Construction. In constructing the straw bale house in a small

dimension, it can be done within 5 to 6 days with a mason and laborer, and even

novice builders with 1 mason are acceptable. When it comes in materials, the

main material is the rice straw where in it is readily available in the environment.

And similar with that of the conventional house, the usual tools were used in the

construction of straw bale house.

Straw bale house needs proper ventilation to maintain its health.

Breathable nature must not be blocked; this means proper decoration and

weather proof is important.

11
 Figure 7.Straw Bale Construction

Floor Plan

Collecting and Drying of Rice Straw

Straw Bailing

Foundation Footings

Framing

Straw Bale Walls

Plaster of Walls

Roofing

Figure 8 shows the Diagram of Straw Bale House Construction

12
Related Literature

Numerous researchers have done studies about designing of straw bale

house which determined of the potentiality of rice straw as a primary material for

making straw bale house.

The study of Paul Downtown, et al (2013) focused on the viability of rice

straw. The author concluded that the straw has high tensile strength. Grasses

have different qualities for instance rice straw has silica which adds resistance

and density to decomposition. The walls of the straw bale are highly resistant to

fire because it provides airless environment.

Based on the study conducted by Andrew Morrison, entitled “Why Build

with Straw Bales?” explained how rice straw helps the environment. Straw is a

waste product that is either composed in standing water or burned: instead of

eliminating it by burning, utilization of rice straw for straw bale house reduces air

pollution which has a great impact to the environment.

The study entitled “Information guide to Straw Bale Building” by Amazon

Nails, et al (2001) gives a clean and a straight forward data about building straw

bale houses. It is accessible and has a simple building technique construction

makes it available to anyone and also it is ideal for mainstream builders as well

as for self builders.

According to the study conducted by James Henderson, entitled

“Choosing a Plaster System for your Straw Bale House” that focused on the

plastering of straw bale walls. The top priority is the protection for the life of the

13
building. A good construction detail with well designed frame, and sensible

building design should be done to protect the straw bale. Plastering is a practical

method for the straw bale house that is used over the years. Different methods

were used by builders to achieve long lasting plasters and ensure safe and

lasting bale house.

The study of Petr Konecny, Jiri Teslik and Michal Hamala, entitled

“Mechanical and Physical Properties of Straw Bales” conducted the structural

system of a load bearing straw bale. Straw walls from bales carry vertical load

structure. The load bearing straw is simple, it doesn’t require any support and

additional load carrying studs and it is suitable in one storey building. Although

some construction limitations are present, building process has an effective cost

and has a fast construction period.

Synthesis

The related literature provides the researchers with added substantial

information on rice straw and straw bale house. The concepts presented in the

related studies conducted has a bearing to the present study in the light sense

that with the investigation of the potential of an alternative material as an aid in

the production of Straw Bale House.

The study of Paul Downtown, et al(2013), James Henderson, Amazon

Nails, et al (2001) and Petr Konecny, Jiri Teslik and Michal Hamala, have great

similarities with the present study, the above mentioned studies also used

14
agricultural waste materials which is the rice straw in the production of straw bale

house.

In general, the cited literature and studies were very useful to the

researchers as it is from these that they were able to see the possibilities of using

rice straw in constructing straw bale house.

Conceptual Framework

The process of building straw bale house has different stages. It has been

experimented to see its potential like in all innovative ideas. Thinking of the

responsibility towards the environment, this useful can be brought to the

construction industry to sustaining ‘green building’. Its efficient energy

sustainability with ease of installation and is cost-effective now at pivotal point in

development.

From this study, that block system as the basic of the building method,

straw bale house design is flexible to use. This study undergoes various stages

to come up with the finished product. The produce straw bale house from the rice

straw and other materials was compared in terms of material and cost-

effectiveness.

15
 Conceptual Paradigm

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

Straw Bale House

Design
Process
Requirements and
 Collecting and
Consideration
Drying of Rice
Straw  Straw Bale
 Plan
 Straw Baling House
 Layout
 Foundation Footing
 Material  Framing
 Straw bale Walls
Specification
 Plaster of walls
 Roofing

16
 CHAPTER III

RESEARCH DESIGN AND PROCEDURES

This chapter presents the pre-design, the materials and tools, the methods

and the procedures that they have used in the research study.

Research Design Method

This research study used engineering planning and design. The study

involved the two key stages: (1) preparation stage and (2) design and

construction stage. In the preparation stage, ideas and concepts were gathered

to assist the researchers on initiating the study. For the design and construction

stage, actual design of the straw bale house was constructed to desired output.

The procedures of the stages are summarized as follows:

1. Baling of rice straw

2. Building a foundation

3. Building a frame

4. Forming of straw bale walls

5. Plastering of walls

6. Roofing works

Preparation Stage

The researchers conducted their preliminary study through gathering of

necessary data and information. Relevant articles were collected from different

17
means and materials with the same research studies. The researchers gathered

and compiled ideas, concepts and preparation of the materials that will be used

in constructing a straw bale house which served as a guide in the assembly of

the proposed study.

Design and Construction Stage

After the preparation stage on how the straw bale house is formed, the

researchers came up with the actual design process. The designs were

developed, the floor plan was made and the computation of the preferred

dimension was done. These resulted to an accurate, precise, and there was ease

in designing.

Components needed for the assembly of straw bale house:

1. Straw Bale

a. Rice straw

b. Plastic twines

c. Straw Baler

d. Wood glue and water

2. Foundation

a. Concrete

3. Framing

a. Lumber

b. Construction materials- nails, hammer, saw, tape measure

18
 4. Straw Bale Walls

a. Straw bales

b. Vertical bars and galvanized wires

5. Plastering

a. Cement and sand

b. Welded screen wire

6. Roofing

a. Trusses

b. Long Span

7. Manpower

a. Mason

b. Novice builders

Straw Bale

Rice straw must densely pack in a straw baler to form a single block. It is

tied with plastic twines and sprayed with the mixture of wood glue (Stikwell) and

water.

Foundation

Foundation concrete slab need to build up above the ground level to

protect against rising damp and flood.

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 Framing

The frame transfers the load of the roof down to the foundation and should

be strong enough for this purpose. Windows and doors needs to have left holes

in framing. They should also have installed casings to secure them in framing

post.

Straw Bale Walls

Straw bale walls must be built very much like brick walls, stacking the

straw bales on top of the bottom lumber.

Plastering

Mixing ratio of cement and sand was at approximately 1:2. The application

technique was crude manually bond the plaster on with plenty of force 2 or 3

layers of plaster were added, allowing drying time between each layer, resulting

in a final thickness of 1inch.

Roofing

The most popular and traditional roof is a gable roof. The two sides of the

roof of the house were bear down and its basic triangle roof meet in a point at the

top. It is easy to build and also an economical alternative bind of roof. Gable roof

can protect the straw bale house from excessive sunlight and from moisture. And

it is considerable that the roof is overhang to protect the walls from driving rain.

20
 Manpower

Straw bale construction is a method that is accessible to any person with

the right interest and motivation. It is easily understood by even novice builder

with supervision by one knowledgeable skilled carpenter or mason, and also first

time builders can also assist in the construction process.

Methods of Design

The researchers considered the following standard procedures to design

straw bale house:

1. Floor plan

Formulation of a floor plan is necessary to achieve the desired

target dimension. It provides accurate dimension of the output which is a

perquisite in starting the design. Also, this study provides the difference

between a straw bale house dimension and a conventional house

dimension. The straw bale’s width is wider than the usual concrete hollow

blocks less lateral movements.

2. Straw Baling

Preparation of the needed materials is considered based on the

resources applicable in constructing a straw bale house. Straw bailing of

21
 rice straw to form a single block is needed before starting the actual

construction.

3. Foundation footings

Preparation of the needed materials is considered based on the

resources applicable in constructing a straw bale house. Foundation

footings gives a strong hold to the ground thus the construction will a have

a longer useful life.

4. Framing

The frame should be strong enough to transfer the load of the roof

down to the foundation to prevent lateral movements within the frame.

This will guide the straw bale that will form the wall of the straw bale

house.

5. Straw bale walls

The straw bale walls provide thermal and sound insulation. It gives

the same appearance as with the conventional house but it is more cost-

effective than the above-mentioned.

6. Plaster of walls

Plaster is needed to protect straw bale from vermin, fire and rain.

Traditional plastering tools are used to achieve smooth finish while hands

22
 are used for a rustic finish. Although cement is known for its lasting time, it

requires supporting medium to bond well with straw. Welded screen wire

to the wall surface is a common method in plastering of straw bale walls.

7. Roofing

Gable roof is used in this construction. The two sides of the roof of

the house were bear down and it’s a basic triangle roof meet in a point at

the top. It is easy to build and also an economical alternative bind of roof.

Gable roof can protect the straw bale house from excessive sunlight and

from moisture. And it is considerable that the roof is overhang to protect

the walls from driving rain.

a. Floor Plan

23
b. Collecting and Drying Rice Straw

c. Straw Bailing

24
d. Foundation Footings

e. Framing

25
f. Straw Bale Walls

g. Plaster of Walls

26
 h. Roofing

i. Finished Product
“Straw Bale House”

27
 CHAPTER IV

DISCUSSION OF DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

Design Process

In constructing the straw bale house, the main materials should be greatly

considered.

The following are the different components of the straw bale house based

on the final design that was made by the researchers.

Figure 9 shows the main component of the Straw Bale House which are

the straw bales.

Figure 9. Straw Bales

The Straw Bales are made up of rice straw which is collected from the rice

fields and dried on the pavements. Manual compression of the straw bale was

done by 1 to 3 persons using a Straw Baler made from a ply board. A 4-layered

28
rice straw was produced with the mixture of wood glue (Stikwell) and water,

sprayed in each layer to give a more compact straw bale keeping it from bursting.

Plastics twines are used to tighten the straw bale- 3pcs of 1meter and 2pcs of

1.5meters.

The straw bale dimensions are as follows:

Length - 0.60 meters

Width - 0.20 meters

Height - 0.30 meters

Weight – 3 to 3.50 kilograms

Figure 10 shows the Good Lumber

Figure 10. Good Lumber

29
 This would serve as the framing of the straw bale house. The main

material in building a frame is the Good Lumber. It is not advisable to use Coco

Lumber since it can be easily deflect. However, second hand Good Lumber or

Bamboo can be used as a substitute in building the frame. The period of

constructing a frame using Bamboo is time-consuming. It requires material that is

also bamboo made in order to nail the poles together. However, with bamboos

which is usually available in the environment, makes the construction more

economical.

The Good Lumber dimensions are as follows:

2 in x 4 in x 10 ft – For top and bottom frames

2 in x 4 in x 8 ft –For columns

2 in x 6 in x 14 ft –For opening of doors and windows

2 in x 3 in x 12 ft –For roof trusses

2 in x 2 in x 14 ft –For roof trusses

2 in x 2 in x 12 ft –For roof trusses

1½ in x 2 in x 12 ft –For doors

1½ in x 2 in x 10 ft –For windows

30
 Figure 11 shows the Vertical Bar and GI Wire

Figure 11. Vertical Bars

The vertical bar and the GI wire are necessary to hold the Straw Bale in

order for it to stand and form walls. Lateral movements are maintained when

using vertical bar as with the conventional walls. However, instead of vertical bar

placed inside the concrete hollow blocks in conventional walls, vertical bars of

straw bale walls are located outside.

The GI wire will pull the straw bale hence horizontal movement is

lessened.

The Vertical Bar and GI Wire diameter are as follows:

Vertical Bar – 10mm

GI Wire – no.16

31
 Figure 12 shows Welded Screen Wire

Figure 12. Welded Screen Wire

Welded screen wire serves as cover of the straw bale walls to hold the

plaster. The quality of this material is stronger conducive in the construction of

straw bale house rather than chicken wire.

The Welded Screen Wire dimension as follows:

Length – 4 ft

Width – ½ in

32
 Figure 13 shows the Gable Roof

Figure 13. Gable Roof

As with every house, protection from sunlight also can be obtained

through installation of Gable Roof. Not only for the people who will utilize the

straw bale house but also to extend the life of the construction materials that will

be protected from the natural environment.

The roof dimensions are as follows:

Length – 1.80 meters

Width - 1 meter

33
Assembly and Construction Process

Foundation

Framing

Fix the Walls

Filling of Concrete Beams

Finishing of Plaster

Fully Installed Roof

Furnish the Doors and Windows

Figure 14. shows the 7F’s of Construction Process of Straw Bale House

1. Foundation

Clear the site! It is the initial step before the foundation can be put

in place. The foundation of straw bale house should be 3.05m x 2.90m x

.075m. – Length, width and height respectively. Concrete slab will be filled

within the given area. Wait for at least 24hours until the concrete placed is

dry.

34
2. Framing

2in x 4in x 10ft Good Lumber will be placed above the concrete

slab foundation in order to form a frame. It includes the 2in x 4in x 8ft

Good Lumber for the columns and 2in x 6in x 14ft Good Lumber for the

opening of doors and windows. Nail the lumber at the base of the concrete

slab foundation.

3. Fix the Walls

At the bottom part of the frame, with 4 inches concrete nail, insert it

until halfway with about 2 inches above the lumber and with 5 inches

space in between each nail. This will provide a lock for the straw bale that

will hold its first layer. Cutting the straw bale is needed to fit into the length

of the walls. Then, vertical bar will be placed with 1 meter interval and

connected at the bottom of the lumber. Take note that before placing the

second layer of straw bale, the GI wire should be tied accordingly and

make sure that all straw bales should interlock.

4. Filling of Beam

2in x 4in x10ft Good Lumber will be installed at the top of the last

layer of the straw bale wall same as with the installation of lumber at the

bottom part of the wall. The beam will be filled with concrete. Then nail the

vertical bar at the installed lumber at the top.

35
5. Finishing of Plaster

After fixing the wall and filling the beam, the welded screen wire will

be attached to both sides of straw bale wall-indoor and outdoor, and

nailed properly to the framed column. To prevent the welded screen wire

in outward bending, tie it to the vertical bars. Finish the plaster with 1 inch

thickness covering the whole straw bale wall. The plaster will be dried for

about 24hours before the next step.

6. Fully Installed Roof

The concrete beam and the plastered wall was fully dried after

24hours thus allowing the installation of roof to cover the straw bale

house. Truss is placed according to the dimension given to make the

Gable roof. After which the long span and ridge roll will be installed using

roof nails.

7. Furnish the Doors and Windows

Assemble the door and windows. ¼ in x 4ft x 8ft Marine plywood

and 1 ½ in x 2in x 10ft Good Lumber was used to make the door and

windows. Hinges will be used accordingly to connect them to the door

jamb.

36
 CHAPTER V

SUMMARY AND FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

This chapter presents the overall results of the research study based on

the design and actual construction. Subsequently, conclusions and

recommendations are thoroughly presented.

Summary

1. One of the foremost properties of straw bale house is its insulation

properties. It has sound and thermal insulation which cannot be seen at

conventional houses. When it comes to fire resistance, stacking up of

bales into a wall and plastering on both sides, it becomes denser that

there isn’t enough air inside the bale to be burnt.

2. The dimensional properties of straw bale are wider compared to the usual

concrete hollow blocks. Significant decrease in bulging and bending of the

wall because of the properties of its base.

Construction of the straw bale house doesn’t follow building codes similar

with those Bahay Kubo. With shortened working hours, which can be done

even thought the builders are novice; the quality of the house is not

compromised. When it comes to the materials, the main block can be

made through readily available resources from the surrounding

environment. Intense effort and time in gathering the rice straw is needed.

42
 Unlike with the conventional house, every piece of the materials should be

bought at the commercial hardware.

3. Based on straw bale house’ cost value against with that of the standard

conventional house; there is a great difference in their amount. We were

able to save time, materials and money in building the straw bale house

which we have computed against the value of a standard conventional

house, e.g. utilizing single block of rice straw which was gathered from the

rice fields. Also, the use of second hand good lumber o bamboo as one of

the materials can be an alternate to the good lumber.

Conclusion

From the end result which is the Straw Bale House with cost analysis, we

therefore conclude that:

1. The inside portion of the house with the great significance of the Straw

Bale as walls, has increased thermal insulation thus providing less humid

environment. It gives protection from the natural environment outside.

Also, the Straw Bale House has sound insulation especially when there

ceiling is installed.

2. The characteristic of the foundation gives the house its unique stability

hence increasing its hold into the ground.

3. Cost-effective Straw Bale House shows that there is about 60% difference

in total cost compared to the construction of a conventional house.

43
Recommendations

1. Further study of the design of Straw Bale House in the country with

resources usually abundant and available.

2. Further development of Straw Bale House that will initiate a wider range of

research studies here in the Philippines.

3. Coordinate to the local on the possibility of adding the design and the

development of this study to the programs that assist in the provision of

cost-effective but good quality houses to the poor here in the country.

44
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

A.BOOK

Adedeji, AA 2007. Introduction and Design of Straw Bale Masonry.

Department of Civil Engineering

Faculty of Engineering

University of Ilorin

B.THESIS

Design and Development of an Improvised Permeability and Fluidization

Apparatus

C.INTERNET

The Pros and Cons of Straw Bale Wall Construction In Green Building
http://buildingwithawareness.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-straw-bale-wall-
construction-in-green-building/

Study looks for alternatives to open burning of rice straws by Environews

http://environews.ph/food-agriculture/researchers-encourage-farmers-to-out-
open-burning-of-rice-straws/

Burning of rice straw, agri waste threatens the environment by philstar

https://www.philstar.com/business/agriculture/2006/07/30/350114/burning-rice-
straw-agri-waste-threatens-environment

Advantages and disadvantages of straw-bale construction

https://www.realigro.com/property-austria/bale-construction.php

45
Top 8 Advantages and Challenges of Straw Bale Construction
http://pajaconstruction.com/advantages-and-challenges-of-straw-bale-
construction/

Parts of a Rice Plant

https://www.hunker.com/13428045/parts-of-a-rice-plant

The Rice Plant

http://www.ricehub.org/RT/crop-establishment/-the-rice-plant/

Straw Bale Construction

http://strawbale.sustainablesources.com/

Your Home

http://www.yourhome.gov.au/materials/straw-bale

Why live in a house of straw

https://newatlas.com/straw-bale-house-building/51942/

46
42
42
APPENDICES

42
 APPENDIX A

DOCUMENTATION

Straw Baling Procedures

Plate No.1 Assembly of Straw Baler

42
Plate No.2 Five plastic twines were taped inside the straw baler

Plate No.3 Compress straw bales by stepping above the cover of straw baler

Plate No.4 Lay at least four layers of rice straw in a straw baler

42
42
Plate No.5 Every layer of rice straw was sprayed by the mixture of wood glue
and water.

Plate No.6 Tighten the plastic twines to fully form a single block

42
 Republic of the Philippines

Our Lady of Fatima University

College of Engineering

Department of Civil Engineering

Dela Paz Norte, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

CERTIFICATION

This is to certify that the project study entitled “Design and Development
of Straw Bale House” has been revised and edited.

Ms. Maria Francesca Peña Retomarta

______________________________
Grammarian

43
 APPENDIX C
CURRICULUM VITAE

MANLICLIC, EUGENE P.
San Nicolas, San Luis, Pampanga
Contact no. 0932-170-0833
Email Address: eugenemanliclic2@yahoo.com

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Nickname : Eugene
Date of Birth : July 30, 1996
Age : 21
Nationality : Filipino
Status : Single
Sex : Male

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

2013-Present Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Our Lady of Fatima University
Dela Paz Norte, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

2009-2013 University of the Assumption

Unisite Subdivision, San Fernando, Pampanga

2003-2009 University of the Assumption

Unisite Subdivision, San Fernando, Pampanga

44
PENA, MARIA ISABELLA G.
General Hizon Avenue, Mc Arthur Highway
City of San Fernando, Pampanga
Contact no. 0933-474-5518
Email Address: isabelladgpena2@yahoo.com

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Nickname : Bella
Date of Birth : July 1, 1996
Age : 21
Nationality : Filipino
Status : Single
Sex : Female

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

2013-Present Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Our Lady of Fatima University
Dela Paz Norte, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

2009-2013 Pampanga High School

Lourdes Boulevard, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

2003-2009 Camp Olivas Elementary School

Camp Olivas, San Nicolas, City of San Fernando,
Pampanga

45
MACAPAGAL, GRACIELA MAY B.
Sto. Rosario, San Luis, Pampanga
Contact no. 0926-457-5302
Email Address: gracielamacapagal5@gmail.com

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Nickname : Graciela
Date of Birth : August 5, 1997
Age : 20
Nationality : Filipino
Status : Single
Sex : Female

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

2013-Present Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Our Lady of Fatima University
Dela Paz Norte, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

2009-2013 Holy Cross College

Sta. Lucia, Sta. Ana, Pampanga

2003-2009 Sta. Maria Elementary School

Sta. Maria, Sta. Ana, Pampanga

46
AQUINO, DARWIN P.
Saguin, City of San Fernando, Pampanga
Contact no. 0995-971-2866
Email Address: Darwin.aquino082413@gmail.com

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Nickname : Darwin
Date of Birth : November 21, 1993
Age : 24
Nationality : Filipino
Status : Single
Sex : Male

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

2013-Present Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Our Lady of Fatima University
Dela Paz Norte, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

2006-2011 Pampanga High School

Lourdes Boulevard, City of San Fernando, Pampanga
2011-2013 St. Ann Colleges
Essel Park Subdivision, City of San Fernando,
Pampanga

2000-2006 Saguin Elementary School

Saguin, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

47
MANINANG, PAOLO REYNALDO R.
Lourdes Heights, Blk. 7 Lot 7
City of San Fernando, Pampanga
Contact no. 0945-315-5062
Email Address: gwapaolo@gmail.com

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Nickname : Pao `
Date of Birth : January 11, 1997
Age : 21
Nationality : Filipino
Status : Single
Sex : Male

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

2013-Present Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Our Lady of Fatima University
Dela Paz Norte, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

2009-2013 Sindalan High School

Davsan Sindalan, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

2003-2009 First United Methodist Church Ecumenical School

Bangcal Guagua, Pampanga

48