posted 6 years ago
If you are unsure of the structural integrity of the bales, I'd definitely dismantle and rebuild - no matter how safe the method is, it's not worth the emotional toll of constant worry and fear of collapse(not to mention the danger of an actual collapse!)
If the concern is only aesthetics/preservation of the materials, I'd fix as is standing, like the others mentioned.
Best of both worlds? Add adequate timber framing along the interior of the bale walls and resurface the existing bales; if you do end up having issues you know the house won't collapse on you.
Growing on my small acre in SW USA; Fruit/Nut trees w/ annuals, Chickens, lamb, pigs; rabbits and in-laws onto property soon.
Long term goal - chairmaker, luthier, and stay-at-home farm dad. Check out my music! https://www.youtube.com/@Dustyandtheroadrunners