I think the title says it all. I'm going to be building a non-load bearing straw bale adobe in Albuquerque, NM and was thinking about using post and beam ICFs for support columns at the corners, using a cornered set-up so a horizontal L runs along the top, with at least 3 columns supporting it, and am even considering using icfs for the door and window bucks, usually made of wood. Anything crazy about this idea? It seems straightforward enough to work well, but I've never read or heard of ICFs being used in this way. I'd love to hear any feedback. Thanks, Jon

Oh man, I am all for sustainable construction and all, but I've always had serious doubts about any organic materials in the wall. Fungus, rot, sagging, water retention, vermin, etc. I know in NM this isn't the problem it would be in WA, but it's the principle.

As to an ICF structure, they would just not be strong enough as post & beam, or even flat wall unless joined together with beams... and even then maybe not. If moisture isn't a concern and you insist on straw bale, I suggest you consider a red-steel skeleton.

Straw makes a nice home if done right.  Just don't use hay.  The rule is:  If it is a food source for animals, then it will rot.

 

I have a few friend who have done straw homes in West Virginia. It is extremely wet and cold where they built. The homes are over 10 years old and are working great. I have no idea about using ICF to create concrete posts.

I am a regional sales rep for a leading ICF Mfr. so of cource I like ICFs. But actually I was laying in bed last night thinking about how I could build another ICF house, (just finished one with 250 cubic yards of concrete-you do the math) and I pulled out a book on straw bale building and tried to adapt the best of both.

Here is my thought.  Do the corners out the demensions of the longest part of the corner icf form (35-36 inches in both directions). I would do a bond beam across the top row of ICFs tied with extra rebar.  As far as the doors and windows go, the door(s) is a natural.  The windows will work fine as long as you go all the way to the floor on both sides of the opening.  A real POST & BEAM.!!!

I think its a real natural.  Most of the posters here are not aware that straw is not hay.  No nutrative value in straw.    Straw bales would strictly be infill.   

Plaster will cover both the EPS (expanded polystryene) and the straw equally well.

I would not use wood for door/window bucks.  Use V-Buck (www.v-buck.com) It's plastic and will not breakdown like wood.   

I make a living off of ICF sales, but I always appreciate a hybrid view of things. 

I have been to central america and they build a concrete block corner posts with a bond beam on top of solid concrete,  then infill with CMUs.  and slush the infill with concrete.  Even on a yard fence. They are not going anywhere.

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Bob Gieser