The Results Are In: Straw Bale Construction Proves Fire Superiority in Live Demonstration
The Challenge: Three Walls, Real Fire, Undeniable Results
When EarthCraft Design Build partnered with the Wildland Firefighter Foundation to put different construction methods to the ultimate test, we knew we were about to challenge decades of assumptions. What we didn't expect was how decisively the results would speak for themselves. EarthCraft President, Jon Clark was even a little nervous as we had not tested this ourselves prior to the event.
The Competitors:
- Conventional Construction Wall: Standard framing with typical materials
- High-Performance Wall: Modern construction featuring rainshield and Hardy Board siding
- Straw Bale Wall: Dense-packed straw with natural mortar coating
The Shocking Results
Conventional Wall: 3 Minutes
Gone. Completely consumed by flames in just three minutes, proving that what many consider "normal" construction offers minimal fire protection.
High-Performance Wall: 7 Minutes
Despite modern materials and engineering, this wall—representing current "best practices"—succumbed to fire in seven minutes.
Straw Bale Wall: Did Not Burn
After an hour of direct flame application, the straw bale wall remained structurally intact. But here's the moment that left everyone stunned: EarthCraft President Jon Clark was able to place his bare face directly against the opposite side of the wall—demonstrating that the straw bale construction had managed heat so effectively that the other side remained cool to the touch.
Let that sink in. While conventional materials failed within minutes, the straw bale wall protected so well that human skin could safely contact the non-fire side after an hour of direct heat exposure.
More Than Just Fire Resistance
Wildland Fire Expert Darron Williams, who has spent 33 years fighting wildland urban interface fires, put the results in perspective: "The irony is that straw is susceptible to fire on its own. However, when the straw is packed and coated with mortar, it becomes impervious to wildland fire. This creates a safer fire environment for firefighters dealing with these massive urban interface fires."
The thermal imaging cameras captured the full story, revealing temperature differentials that challenged everything attendees thought they knew about fire-safe building.
Expert Analysis and Community Impact
The event brought together an impressive lineup of experts:
- Jon Clark, EarthCraft Design Build President
- Mark "Ron" Hixson, EarthCraft Founder
- Darron Williams, Wildland Fire Expert
- Representatives from the Integrated Design Lab at the University of Idaho
What This Means for Idaho's Future
With Idaho facing increasing wildfire threats, skyrocketing construction costs, and a housing crisis, these results couldn't be more timely. Here's a building method that:
- Outperforms conventional construction in fire resistance
- Costs less than high-performance alternatives
- Uses sustainable materials aligned with Boise's Climate Action Road Map goals for carbon neutrality by 2050
- Provides superior protection for families and firefighters alike
Yet it remains sidelined by outdated fears and industry resistance.
The Science Continues
The success of this demonstration is just the beginning. EarthCraft Design Build is proud to announce our partnership with the University of Idaho to continue this crucial research. Together, we'll be conducting additional testing and publishing comprehensive results that will provide the construction industry with the data it needs to embrace safer, more sustainable building methods.
This collaboration will ensure that what we witnessed on July 12th becomes part of the scientific record, giving builders, architects, insurance providers, and homeowners the evidence-based information they need to make informed decisions about fire-safe construction.
Changing Minds, One Flame at a Time
The "Learn & Burn" event proved that sometimes you have to literally burn down misconceptions to reveal the truth. When Jon Clark's face touched that straw bale wall after an hour of fire exposure, he wasn't just demonstrating superior heat management—he was showing Idaho a path forward.
A path toward buildings that protect better, cost less, and work with nature instead of against it.
For those who missed this groundbreaking demonstration, stay tuned. The partnership with the University of Idaho means more research, more data, and more opportunities to see the future of fire-safe construction in action.
Ready to Build Differently?
The results speak for themselves. Straw bale construction isn't just an alternative—it's superior fire protection hiding in plain sight.
Contact EarthCraft Design Build to learn how these proven fire-resistant building methods can protect your family, your investment, and your peace of mind.
For more information about straw bale construction and upcoming research developments, visit earthcraftconstruction.com or follow us on Instagram @earthcraftdb
About EarthCraft Design Build
EarthCraft Design Build is a veteran-owned company specializing in straw bale construction, timber framing, and high-performance sustainable building methods. Founded on principles of environmental responsibility and superior craftsmanship, EarthCraft serves residential and commercial clients throughout Idaho, Oregon, and beyond, proving that natural building materials can outperform conventional construction in safety, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.
