Non-Toxic Home-Building: Mold Prevention Strategies

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Wanting to build a non-toxic home that doesn’t compromise the health of your loved ones?

Here is one crucial truth: A home with all of the “healthiest” materials is meaningless if infested with mold.

Mold prevention might not be the sexiest topic, but trust us, it's the unsung hero in ensuring a safe and wholesome living space. The non-toxic home conversation is hollow without a discussion of mold prevention.

The good news is that building a new home with superior construction techniques focused on weather and moisture sealing is your best strategy for preventing mold from ever becoming a threat.

Side note: if you want to dive even deeper into non-toxic home building, download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home”!

Mold Prevention Construction Strategies

1.Air Sealing with House Wrap

Air sealing with house wrap is an essential step in preventing mold growth. House wrap is a moisture-resistant barrier that is applied to the exterior walls of a home. It helps to prevent moisture from entering the walls, which can create a breeding ground for mold.

When choosing house wrap, look for a product that is specifically designed for air sealing. It should be water-resistant, vapor-permeable, and durable. Proper installation is critical to ensure that the house wrap is effective. It should be applied tightly and sealed at all seams and openings.

Exterior brand: https://475.supply/products/solitex-mento-1000

Interior brand: https://475.supply/products/intello-plus

2. Window Flashing

Properly installed waterproof flashing is essential in keeping mold at bay. Flashing is a material that is installed around windows to prevent water from entering the walls. It should consist of a waterproof material, such as metal or rubber.

When installing window flashing, make sure that it extends at least four inches beyond the window frame on all sides. It should also be sloped away from the window to direct water away from the walls.

3. Sealing Openings

Sometimes, the tiniest gaps can cause the biggest troubles. All openings in a home, such as vents, pipes, and electrical outlets, should be properly sealed to prevent moisture from entering and creating an ideal environment for mold growth. Use caulk or sealant to seal around these openings and ensure the seal is tight and durable.

A low-odor caulk: https://www.amazon.com/GE-GE284-Silicone-Kitchen-Squeeze/dp/B000PSE46S/ref=sr_1_4?crid=X8JLJ95XL62O&keywords=ge%2Bsilicone%2B2&qid=1699391197&s=industrial&sprefix=GE%2B2%2B%2Cindustrial%2C179&sr=1-4&th=1

A helpful blog on non-toxic caulks and adhesives: https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/07/chemical-free-glues-and-silicone-caulk.html

4. Cement Backing for Wet Walls

In areas where moisture is more prevalent, such as bathrooms and kitchens, cement backing should be used on the walls before installing tiles or other wall coverings. Cement backing provides a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the walls and reaching the studs- talk about a big bummer.

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Additional Tips for Mold Prevention

VENTILATE! Ventilation is the lifeline of your home in more ways than one. Keep the air circulating to prevent any moisture buildup that entices mold to hang around. This is yet another reason to invest in an ERV (energy recovery ventilator) for your home. Read our previous blog post on air purification for more details regarding this amazing system.

Any leaks? Don't delay—act FAST to preserve the integrity of your home.

Maintain humidity levels below 60% to create an environment inhospitable to mold growth, preserving the sanctity of your living space. (An ERV can assist with maintaining consistent moisture levels in your home.)

Following any water exposure, leave no surface unchecked. Thoroughly clean and dry to eliminate any chance of mold taking root.

By integrating these mold prevention strategies during construction, you're not just building a structure—you're establishing a truly healthy home free from toxins and the potential health risks associated with mold. Let's come together and craft a home that supports you and your loved ones by protecting your health for the long haul.

To dive deeper into this subject, check out this helpful blog post: https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2020/01/designed-for-mold-prevention-corbetts-tiny-house.html

P.S. Looking for more non-toxic home-building materials? Download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home”!

Non-Toxic Home-Building: A Guide to Air Purification and Ventilation

Hey there, fellow home enthusiasts! If you're on a mission to create a beautiful, functional, AND healthy home for your loved ones, you're in the right place. As a follow-up to our last blog on non-toxic home-building foundations, we're diving into two vital components of crafting a non-toxic, comfortable refuge: air purification and ventilation.

Understanding Air Purification: What's Your Best Fit?

Alright, let's kick things off with air purification. There's a bunch of air purifiers out there, each with its unique value. Here's the lowdown:

HEPA Air Purifiers: These champs are excellent at nabbing tiny particles like dust, pollen, smoke, bacteria, and viruses. (Average Price: $100 - $500)

Electrostatic Precipitator Air Purifiers: They're your go-to for knocking out large particles, such as dust and pollen. (Average Price: $200 - $800)

Activated Carbon Air Purifiers: When it comes to tackling gases, chemicals, and odors, these are the pros. (Average Price: $100 - $400)

So, which one should you pick? Well, that depends on your specific needs. If you're battling small particles, HEPA purifiers are your pals. But if you're dealing with gases and odors, activated carbon purifiers are your trusty sidekicks.

But wait there’s more! Youu can also go for a combo purifier that wields multiple powers for a comprehensive air cleanse (this is the direction we would lean). Just remember, keeping those filters fresh, as per the manufacturer's instructions, is crucial to keep the purifier happy for the long haul.

HRVs and ERVs: Your Indoor Air Quality Allies

Now, let's switch gears to ventilation systems. You see, lousy indoor air quality can lead to all sorts of health issues. That's where Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) step in.

HRVs are great—they swap indoor air with outdoor air while also transferring heat, which slashes energy usage. ERVs, they're like HRVs with a bonus feature—they capture moisture from outgoing air for better moisture regulation. Perfect for those dry winter months.

And the great news is that you can buddy up these systems with your AC. In the summer, they give incoming air a nice little chill, lightening the load on your AC. When winter rolls in, they give incoming air a warm welcome, so your heating system doesn't break a sweat.

The Dynamic Duo: Ventilation and Air Purification

For the crème de la crème of indoor air quality, pair HRVs or ERVs with air purifiers. Air purifiers filter the air, removing pollutants like dust, pollen, and smoke. By using them in conjunction with ventilation systems, you can further filter the air, eliminating even smaller particles.

This combination is especially beneficial for allergy and asthma sufferers or those living in areas with poor outdoor air quality.

Top Tips for Making These Systems Shine

To get the most out of these systems, keep these tips in mind:

• Place your purifier or ventilator in a central spot for optimal airflow.

• Let 'em run round the clock, especially if allergies or asthma are a struggle.

• Show those filters some love—replace them regularly as the manufacturer suggests.

• Size and install your HRV or ERV properly to make sure it's a seamless fit.

• Don't skip out on regular check-ups by qualified techs.

Follow these golden rules, and you'll be well on your way to creating a healthier and comfier home for your family.

Integrating air purification and ventilation is a fantastic step toward a happier, healthier living space. Whether you're combating particles, odors, or gases, there's a solution tailored just for you. By teaming up these systems, you'll be armed and ready to savor every breath in your home sweet home.