The Final Straw-Roof
Considered a renewable green technology, using straw in the building of roofs has actually been around for millennia. In merry old England, which many can pass their family roots too, these roofing materials have commonly been called referred to as thatch, sod, or turf. Straw is an unwanted by-product of farming. It is estimated that over 200 million tons of straw waste are created every year in the United States alone.1 Keep in mind, this straw is often burned in the field and this contributes to air pollution and ozone depletion. Many green minded individuals also love the idea of actually having green over their heads, meaning their roof actually is alive with greenery. For this and many other reasons, straw and natural products like it are being hailed as a green building product for the future, especially for roofs. For more information on local companies offering this in the Memphis area please contact us: MemphisRoofingProfessionals.com
Straw bales can also be used as actual insulation in the space between the roof and ceiling of a building. Bales have both great insulation and sound proofing properties. Also, they offer a natural alternative to other synthetic insulation products. The California Energy Commission has rated a plastered straw bale wall to have an insulation R-Value or 30. 2 Keep in mind this is for wall insulation and not roof areas, but the important point is that straw does offer some powerful natural insulating properties.
The biggest drawback to straw roofs is the relative lack of information regarding this building technique and product. Although, in many countries, it has been used for thousands of years, the idea is just starting to spout in the United States. Other draw backs include the weight that bales can add to a roof’s structure. Also, the natural fibers must be encapsulated and kept away from moisture. This can be done with plaster. The plaster can also act as a fire retardant. Roofing companies like Memphis Roofing are preparing to be on forefront of these new green roofing technologies.
