Natural Building Materials
This is a list of natural materials that can be used in construction
(page under development - many more materials to come)
Straw Bales
Use: Structural walls and insulation

Image credit: Strawbuild
Properties:
-
Excellent insulation, U-value = 0.13-0.20W/m2K
-
Acoustic performance is very good
-
Breathable (vapour permeable)
-
Very fire resistant
-
Structural up to two storeys
-
Very durable with evidence of lasting over 100yrs
-
Very good airtightness when designed and built correctly
-
Locks up (sequesters) CO2
-
Compostable
-
Very low embodied energy
Source: Available directly from farms that use a small baling machine
Hemp-Lime or 'Hempcrete'
Use: Insulation

Image credit: Hemp-LimeConstruct
Properties:
-
Highly insulating
-
Good thermal mass
-
Very good air tightness
-
Breathable (vapour permeable)
-
Hygroscopic (naturally regulates humidity)
-
Helps prevent damp & mould
-
Hemp locks up (sequesters) CO2
-
Growing hemp benefits soil, without the need for agrochemicals or pesticides
-
Lime deters rodents
Recycled Denim Insulation
Use: Thermal & acoustic insulation

Image credit: http://carefullycurated.co.uk/2014/05/09/grand-designs-green-heroes/
Properties:
-
Excellent insulation, k value = 0.039 W/mK
-
Acoustic performance is very good
-
Breathable (vapour permeable)
-
Helps regulate humidity
-
Fire resistant
-
Resistant to moths and mould fungus
-
Safe to handle and easy to install
-
Recyclable
-
Low embodied energy