New Mexico Administrative Code
Title 14 - HOUSING AND CONSTRUCTION
Chapter 7 - BUILDING CODES GENERAL
Part 5 - 2009 NEW MEXICO NON-LOAD BEARING BALED STRAW CONSTRUCTION BUILDING STANDARDS
Section 14.7.5.10 - WALL CONSTRUCTION

Universal Citation: 14 NM Admin Code 14.7.5.10

Current through Register Vol. 35, No. 18, September 24, 2024

A. Baled straw shall not be used below grade. The foundation shall be constructed so that the bottom of the lowest course of the bale wall is at least six inches (6") above final exterior grade. Baled straw used for in-fill walls shall be laid flat with the vertical joints staggered at each course with a minimum overlap of twelve inches (12"). Vertical joints shall be field tested during placement of bales in the wall. Joints shall be sufficiently tight to prevent the end of a nominal dimension one by four inch (1" x 4") board two feet long from being pushed more than six inches (6") into the joint.

B. A moisture barrier shall be placed between the foundation and the first course of baled straw to prevent moisture from migrating through the foundation into the bottom course of bales. The barrier shall run vertically between the perimeter insulation and the foundation wall and shall run horizontally under the bale wall and then double back to the outside edge of the foundation.

(1) The moisture barrier shall consist of one of the following:
(a) cementitious waterproof coating;

(b) type 30 asphalt felt over an asphalt emulsion;

(c) sheet metal flashing, sealed at joints; or

(d) other ICC approved building moisture barrier.

(2) All penetrations through the moisture barrier, as well as all joints in the barrier, must be sealed with asphalt, caulking or an approved sealant.

(3) Unless protected by a roof above, a moisture barrier shall be placed over the top course of bales to prevent moisture entering the top of the wall of bales. The moisture barrier shall extend down both sides of the top course a minimum of the full top course.

(4) A moisture barrier shall be installed at all window sills prior to installing windows.

C. All weather-exposed exterior wall surfaces shall have a weather-resistive barrier to protect the interior wall covering as required by 14.7.3.15 NMAC.

D. Gaps between the ends of bales which are less than six inches (6") in width can be filled by a flake inserted securely into the gap.

Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. New Mexico may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
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