We described in detail how to make a roof from reeds. But for the insulation and construction of walls and ceilings, a slightly different technology is used, in this area reeds are used – slabs of reeds, often with additives that give them greater strength and other qualities.
The simplest reed slabs can be made by hand. Reed is properly prepared, and then mats are woven from it. The stems are tied with wire, the bottom and top are carefully trimmed so that they are even in height. Everything is quite simple, but the reeds should be tightly packed so that the mats have sufficient strength and density..
Such simple reed mats can be used in frame construction, but now they are most often used for the construction of outbuildings, as a very inexpensive and lightweight material..
Factory-made reed is a heat-insulating material that is produced in the form of slabs. The main material is the stems of ordinary reeds, which are pressed on a special installation, stitched with wire and trimmed. Depending on how the stems are located, the plates can be longitudinal and transverse.
The standard length of factory-made reed slabs is from 2.4 to 2.8 meters. Width – from 0.55 to 1.5 meters, thickness can vary from 30 to 100 millimeters. The density of reeds will depend on the degree of compaction and will range from 175 to 250 kg / m3.
The thermal conductivity of reeds is from 0.046 to 0.093 W / (m · K), and the ultimate strength in bending is 0.5–0.1 MPa.
Reed benefits:
- One of the most inexpensive thermal insulation materials, because reeds grow almost everywhere.
- Environmental friendliness – what can be more natural than plant stems.
- Low thermal conductivity. According to this characteristic, reeds are comparable to polystyrene, superior to wood and brick. For comparison – a wall made of reed with a thickness of 10 centimeters in terms of thermal conductivity is comparable to a brick wall half a meter thick.
- Ease. Reed mats and slabs weigh little, the whole process of work can be carried out independently, without the involvement of special equipment.
- Fast and easy to use. Reed is a ready-to-use material that you just need to put in a prepared frame.
- If the slabs were created from only ripe, properly harvested reeds, they are not afraid of temperature changes, fungus, and rotting. However, experts still advise using an impregnation against fungus..
The area of use of reed is quite large:
- Frame construction. Reed slabs are used as filler for the frame, usually wood.
- Partition device.
- Insulation of coatings and floors.
- Thermal insulation of premises.
Let’s cancel that reeds are used in low-rise and agricultural construction.
The reeds will last long enough, up to 50 years, if the material is of high quality, and the humidity in the building does not exceed 70%. In living quarters, this level of humidity is usually not found. In the case of facade insulation or frame construction, the reeds are usually protected with a layer of plaster or sheathed with more resistant materials, which will serve as the basis for finishing.
Reed stems naturally burn, of course. However, the reeds are packed very tightly in the slabs, there is almost no oxygen access, so there will be no rapid spread of the flame, the material will only smolder in case of fire. This can be avoided by impregnating with flame retardants. In addition, as we already wrote above, traditionally reeds from above are covered with a layer of plaster or other non-combustible material. For example, for interior decoration, you can use gypsum fiber sheets that do not burn at all..
Another disadvantage of reeds is the fear of rodents..
Now there are reed-foam polyurethane panels that combine the best properties of these two materials and can be used even in frameless construction. Such panels are the same reeds, but on top they are filled with a layer of polyurethane foam. At the same time, the proportion of reed stems in the panels is 87%, and they are no longer afraid of rodents.
As you can see, reeds can be used not only for roofing, light arbors and beautiful sheds. This material allows you to quickly and at a minimum cost to build whole houses, warm and reliable.
Can someone please provide more information about Reed slabs? I am interested in learning about their features, characteristics, and potential uses. Thank you!
Reed slabs, also known as reed panels or reed mats, are construction materials made from natural reed plants. These panels consist of reeds tightly bound together with wire or string. They are typically lightweight and flexible, offering excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. Their natural composition makes them environmentally friendly and sustainable.
The features of reed slabs include their high buoyancy, fire resistance, and resistance to rot and pests. They also possess good breathability, allowing for moisture absorption and release. Additionally, reed slabs are easy to install and can be easily cut to fit different shapes and sizes, making them versatile for various applications.
Some potential uses of reed slabs are in construction, interior design, and landscaping projects. They can be used as insulation material in walls, roofs, and floors, providing energy efficiency and soundproofing capabilities. Reed slabs are also employed in decorative paneling, fencing, and shading for their natural aesthetics. Moreover, they can be utilized for erosion control, wetland restoration, and as planting medium for green roofs.
Overall, reed slabs offer numerous advantageous features, ranging from their eco-friendly nature to their versatility in construction and design applications.
Can you please provide more information about the features and characteristics of reed slabs? Additionally, I’m curious to know what these slabs are commonly used for. Thank you!