[Strawbale] window/sill details

[Derek Roff]

> Almost without exception, the windows
> are recessed into the bales, presenting the necessity of a window
> sill.

I'd agree with the thesis that the deeper the inset of a window, the 
greater the area of potential leaks.  But I'd want a window sill even 
when a window is mounted flush with the wall surface.  I may not be 
clear on Dion's system, and different window types and manufacturers 
require different details.  Still, a window sill with a good drip edge 
helps aesthetics _and_ the engineering of water shedding/leak proofing. 


Good detailing design and execution are essential, and all too rare. 
If they are achieved, I think that the difference in leak risk, between 
a flush window and an inset window, is not too large.  Especially if 
the concern is rain, rather than snow.

Derelict

Derek Roff
Language Learning Center
Ortega Hall 129, MSC03-2100
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
505/277-7368, fax 505/277-3885
Internet: derek at unm.edu