Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
was cut back level with the face of the window and then the render was applied. A render
pump was used to apply the render, which assists its penetration into the straw beneath
the wire, giving a strong bond of wire, straw and render around the door. It is important
that render be worked well into bales and wire netting around all doors, as the vibration
of the door's operation will break down unstable render in this area. The final result
around the window is as gentle and unobtrusive as we had envisaged (see Figure 5.21).
Figure 5.21
Completed render over the wire netting frame work at the stile of the door buck and door
Window openings with bales below and a lintel above
In this application posts will support the lintel in the same manner as previously
discussed. Depending on the width of the lintel and the height of the bales below the
window it is likely that the post size could be reduced as the bales will add lateral strength
to the post. Ideally the straw bales will be laid in a continuous running bond pattern and
will have a section cut out of the side of the bales to accommodate the post supporting
the lintel. When posts greater than 120 mm deep are used, the bales will be laid between
the posts. There are varying schools of thought regarding the compression of bales below
windows. Some say that it is not necessary while others advise it. Personally, for the small
amount of effort required, I believe it to be a good investment.
