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Advantages
Stands up to numerous types of climates, straw bale homes can be comfortable and can manage moisture effectively if designed and constructed properly. These structures can provide good thermal (approx. R-30 to R-35) and sound insulation and provide some fire-resistance. They use low embodied energy, low-toxicity building materials which are usually available locally.
Straw bale homes offer an alternative aesthetic with a variety of options for designs and finishes.
Savings
Savings will vary with climate and are related to home heating costs.
Issues
Most challenges with straw bale homes are related to poor design and construction practices leaves the home open to moisture. They require a expert to design and construct.
Not many Home Inspectors provide or are qualified to inspect these homes.
National Issues
 In some parts of the country it will be hard to get mortgage financing, qualified contractors and tradesmen, or fire insurance for these homes. Some areas are at an advantage in this repect, Colorado, since its sunny climate has encouraged the building of energy-efficient homes, including many straw bales homes, and code officials, lenders and insurance carriers are more familiar with them than in other parts of the country.
Installation
Homes should be designed by architects experienced in this type of construction. Contractors should have multiple references, qualifications and coverage, and they should be checked. As with other types of construction, accepting low bids can be very expensive, since lack of familiarity on the part of the contractor may be a reason for a low bid.
More Information On This Topic
Straw Bale Home Basics article by Kenton Shepard
The Last Straw http://www.thelaststraw.org
Colorado Straw Bale Association http://www.coloradostrawbale.org/
Extensive Green Links http://www.dcat.net/resources/links.php#straw
Ecological Building Network http://ecobuildnetwork.org
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