An investigation of the moisture content in the walls of a straw-bale building

This paper examines the use and accuracy of a moisture probe used in the walls of a straw-bale building. The performance of the moisture probe is assessed against laboratory-based measurements. The measurements from a number of moisture probes placed in the walls of a case study straw-bale building over a 2-year period are presented. The moisture content measurements from the building are discussed in the light of laboratory findings and the condition of the straw in the lower part of the most exposed wall. Potential influences upon the readings obtained from the moisture probes along with possible alternative assessment methods are discussed. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.