[GSBN] energy efficiency.

[David Arkin, AIA]

Hello Rikki, All:

Of course, it’s going to vary from example to example.  For one of our projects, a 480 sq. ft. (44.5 sq. m) dwelling the energy documentation (what we call ‘Title 24’ here in California) was calculated at "44.6% Better than Standard.”  I’d be happy to forward you the form.  Perhaps better to suggest a range:  20% to 50% better than standard?  

Designers and builders of straw bale homes are likely paying more attention to solar orientation and control than the average, and often with better windows and air-sealing. All things being equal except the walls, I’d guess perhaps a 15% to 25% increase in performance, due to a combination of higher insulation levels and thermal mass effect of the interior plaster finish.

Finally, you might add that homes built of straw and other rapidly renewable materials (hemp, bamboo, wood, etc.) have the potential to capture carbon out of the atmosphere, via photosynthesis, and our built environment can be the earth’s sixth carbon sink, giving humans the opportunity to help reverse global climate change with our building activities. 

I look forward to hearing others’ thoughts, 

David Arkin


> On May 12, 2017, at 4:05 AM, Rikki Nitzkin <rikkinitzkin at gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> Hi,  
> A reporter for a National newspaper here in Spain wants to write an article on SB. 
> 
> She asks me: what is the % of energy savings in a SB house?
> 
> Can anyone give me a ball-park figure? o a link to somewhere with reliable data?
> 
> I usually compare the centimeters of insulation in a conventional house, to that of SB. But I don’t have the data on what the difference is in real savings…
> 
> thanks, Rikki
> 
> Rikki Nitzkin
> Strawbale Building and Clay Plaster:
> education, consulting, and building
> www.tallerconco.org <http://www.tallerconco.org/>
> https://www.facebook.com/TallerConCo <https://www.facebook.com/TallerConCo>
> 
> tallerconco at gmail.com <mailto:tallerconco at gmail.com>
> (+ 34) 657 335 162
> 
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Arkin Tilt Architects
Ecological Planning & Design

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Thank you!

David Arkin, AIA, Architect
LEED Accredited Professional
CA #C22459/NV #5030

1101 8th St. #180, Berkeley, CA  94710
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"There is no way to peace. Peace is the way."
— A. J. Muste 



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