Claire Thompson
Chicken wire is a popular choice for building straw bale structures, especially chicken coops, due to its low cost and ease of use. To wrap chicken wire around a straw bale structure, you need to start by creating a proper foundation to ensure wall stability and elevate the bales off the ground. Then, you would assemble the bales, securing them with rebar before wrapping the entire structure with chicken wire. Finally, you would plaster the chicken wire with cement or natural plaster, such as lime or clay, to hold it in place. This method creates a sturdy and insulating wall while also providing protection from predators.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Insulation |
| Materials | Straw bales, chicken wire, plaster, cement, timber |
| Steps | Build a foundation, put bales together, spear with rebar, wrap with chicken wire, plaster |
| Pros | High insulation value, durable, environmentally conscious, cheaper than traditional stick building |
| Cons | Labour-intensive, vulnerable to mould, requires proper foundation to prevent collapse |
| Alternatives | Welded wire mesh, plastic mesh, jute netting, no mesh with natural plasters |
What You'll Learn
Chicken wire placement
Before placing the chicken wire, ensure that your straw bales are properly stacked and secured. This can be done by using a wooden frame or posts to create a stable structure. It is important to keep the bales off the ground and to use a foundation that suits the type of structure you are building.
Begin by unrolling the chicken wire and positioning it at the base of your straw bale structure. You will need enough wire to wrap around the entire perimeter of the bales, so ensure you have the necessary amount cut and ready. Secure the starting point of the wire to the bales using staples or nails. It is important to use the appropriate fasteners that will hold the wire in place without causing damage to the bales.
Wrap the chicken wire tightly and securely around the bales, ensuring that it is taut and snug. Overlap the edges of the wire by a few inches to create a strong barrier. Secure the wire at regular intervals as you work your way up the structure, fastening it to the bales with staples or nails. Make sure that the wire is smooth and flat, with no gaps or loose areas that could weaken the overall stability.
Once you reach the top of the structure, cut the chicken wire so that it overlaps the starting point by a few inches. Secure the ending point of the wire with staples or nails, ensuring that it is firmly attached. Take care to tuck in any sharp edges or protruding wires to prevent injury or damage.
For added reinforcement, consider using multiple layers of chicken wire, especially if your structure is large or needs extra support. Additionally, you can combine chicken wire with other types of mesh or netting, such as welded wire mesh or plastic mesh, to enhance the overall stability and durability of your straw bale structure.
Remember to wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, when working with chicken wire to prevent injuries.
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Using plaster
When using plaster with straw bales, it is important to consider the type of plaster and mesh being used, as well as the specific application process. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for using plaster with straw bales and chicken wire:
Choosing the Right Plaster and Mesh
The choice between using natural plaster or cement-based plaster is crucial. Natural plasters like lime or earthen plaster offer flexibility and can be used without mesh. On the other hand, cement-based plaster requires the use of mesh by code. If you decide to use a natural plaster, options like lime plaster or earthen plaster are available.
Preparing the Bales
Before applying plaster, it is essential to prepare the straw bales properly. This includes considering the use of gravel or drainage underneath the bales to prevent moisture issues. Additionally, some builders attach building paper to the bales, especially at the lowest course, to protect against wind-driven rainwater. This paper can help keep the bales dry and prevent rot.
Applying Plaster with Chicken Wire
When using chicken wire with plaster, it is important to firmly attach the mesh to the bales. This can be done by stapling the mesh to wood intersections and tying any loose areas. Ensure that the plaster hangs on the bales, and the mesh is embedded within it for added strength. Chicken wire has a lighter galvanic coating and may not be suitable for bearing the weight of thick plaster. Consider using a thicker gauge of wire or alternative mesh options for better support.
Finishing Touches
After applying the plaster, it is important to follow the appropriate curing and drying procedures. Additionally, consider painting or sealing the plaster to enhance its durability and protect it from the elements.
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Building a foundation
Firstly, it is important to understand the purpose of the foundation. The foundation will bear the weight of the straw bale structure, ensuring stability and durability. It will also keep the walls stable and the bales off the ground, preventing moisture absorption and potential pest infestations.
To begin construction, you will need to prepare the site by clearing any debris and levelling the ground. Ensure the ground is compact and stable; consider adding a layer of gravel or crushed rock for added stability. Next, you will need to build a base that sits on top of the prepared ground. This can be done using various methods, such as laying a concrete slab or constructing a wooden frame. For example, one person on Strawbale.com details how they built a wooden deck for their two-story house: they added posts, wrapped them with treated 2x12s, installed LVL beams, and then built the second-floor deck before moving on to the walls and roof.
Another important consideration is the type of mesh to use. Mesh provides structural integrity and can eliminate the need for shear bracing. While 14-gauge welded wire mesh is a common choice, it is expensive and not environmentally friendly. Alternative options include plastic mesh, which is lightweight and easy to work with, or jute netting, which is more environmentally friendly and works well with earthen and lime plasters.
Finally, remember that proper planning is essential. Ensure you have a detailed understanding of the structure you intend to build and the specific requirements for your region, such as building codes and permits. Additionally, consider the plaster you will use, as certain types, such as cement-based plaster, require a structural mesh by code.
By following these steps and considerations, you can build a strong and stable foundation for your straw bale structure.
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Preventing mould
To wrap chicken wire around straw bales, you must first ensure the straw is dry. Moisture is the biggest threat to straw bales, as it can cause mould and rot. To prevent this, store straw bales in a dry, well-ventilated place, off the ground, and away from moisture sources like roofs and vents.
When building with straw bales, you can use a variety of plasters and meshes to prevent mould. If you use a cement-based plaster, you must use a mesh like welded wire or chicken wire to provide structure. Natural plasters like lime, clay, or mud clay straw plaster are breathable and flexible, so they can be used without mesh in most cases. However, if you use a natural plaster, ensure you meet building code requirements, as some codes require mesh for fire safety.
If you choose to use a mesh, you have several options. Chicken wire is a cheap and quick option, but it can be difficult to maintain the desired shape. Jute netting is a natural option that works well with lime and earthen plasters. Plastic mesh is lightweight and easy to work with, but it may be less environmentally friendly. Welded wire mesh is strong and can be used as lateral shear design, but it is expensive and not environmentally friendly.
To prevent mould, ensure your straw bale structure is well-ventilated and dry. You can also treat the straw bales with a fire retardant or a preservative to increase their longevity. Regularly inspect your straw bale structure for any signs of moisture or mould, and address any issues promptly.
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Alternative methods
One alternative method is to not use mesh for the majority of the structure. This is only applicable when the straw bale structure is plastered with an earthen or lime plaster, as cement-based plasters require a structural mesh by code.
Another option is to use plastic mesh like Tenax. It is lightweight and cuts easily with a utility knife, making it easy to work with. However, it stretches, so it can be challenging to maintain the desired shape.
Jute netting is another alternative, more environmentally friendly option that works well with earthen and lime plasters.
If you are using earthern plaster, you can also consider using stucco or chicken netting for the scratch coat, which provides a quick, secure, and strong option.
For those considering straw bale construction for chicken coops, it is important to note that some predators can chew through chicken wire. To address this, you can add a layer of chain link wire over the chicken wire on the inside and outside of the structure. Additionally, ensure a barrier between the bottom of the bales and the ground to prevent ants and other bugs from entering.
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Frequently asked questions
To wrap chicken wire around your straw bales, first, put up a proper foundation to keep the walls stable and the bales off the ground. Then, put the bales together, spearing them with rebar as you go, and wrap the whole thing with chicken wire. Finally, plaster over the wire with cement.
Straw bales with chicken wire have a very high insulation value and are durable. They are also cheaper for houses than traditional stick building if you do it yourself.
No, you need to have a proper foundation to keep the walls stable and the bales off the ground.
