Article 9: Filling with straw: first attempt

On October 31, we really get started: first straw walls to go up. You must first set up the press – a structure which allows the walls to be erected straight and which has a sort of bracket to put the walls in compression. We use the straps to do the bulk of the compression, then we finish finely with small hydraulic jacks.

To compress properly, use a strap on one side and another in opposition. Otherwise the wall is crooked.

The first wall, we do it with the help of Marco and Bastien. It’s a bit chaotic at first – it takes time to find the right way to do it. But once you have the method, it takes shape.

Validation

The next day, Peter Braun, our civil engineer, comes to see our work. It validates the concept! The first wall can be completed and stored in the barn, ready for future assembly. “Everything is swimming in oil, I can sleep peacefully”, that’s what he tells me.

System improvement

Some modifications need to be made to the press. We’re going to lower it a bit - it’ll make it easier to take the walls down once they’re filled. Also, we had put the jacks in reverse, which turned out to be a bad idea. They work just as well right side up, and even better. You will have to place them by hand each time, but it is still much less hassle than having them upside down.