Should You Live In Your Home During A Renovation?

Deciding whether to live in your home during a remodel can be a tough call, especially if non-toxic living is a priority. On the one hand, the prospect of double rent or mortgage payments and the upheaval of moving can be daunting.  On the other hand, enduring the dust, chemicals, noise, and disruption of a major renovation project while living in the home can be equally challenging. In this blog post, we’re exploring the essential considerations, focusing on minimizing exposure to toxins often released during renovations, so you can make an informed choice that prioritizes your family's health, well-being, and budget!

Summary:

• Health Risks: Minimize exposure to toxins (VOCs, dust) released during renovations.

• Ventilation Challenge: Balance fresh air and toxin release with uncomfortable temperatures caused by open windows/doors.

• Living with Contractors: Expect disruption to daily routines and potential project delays.

• Minimize Toxin Exposure On-Site (for the Brave): Utilize air purifiers, dust control measures, and strategic cleaning routines.

• The Final Verdict: Consider project size, budget, and tolerance for disruption. Open communication with your contractor is crucial.

• Want to renovate with non-toxic building materials? Download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home or Remodel”
  
  

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Understanding the Risk: Off-Gassing and Toxins

When it comes to remodeling, off-gassing is a major concern. This process involves the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from building materials, furniture, and cleaning products, which can pose serious health risks. Compounds like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene can irritate the respiratory system and have been linked to various health issues, including headaches and cancers (yikes!).

Moreover, the demolition phase itself can stir up dust containing lead paint, asbestos fibers (if your home was built before the 1980s), and other harmful substances. The risk of exposure to these toxins is significantly higher when you are living in the midst of a renovation. Selecting non-toxic building materials with minimal off-gassing is even more important when living in your home during a renovation. Check out this blog post on non-toxic plywood!

Ventilation: A Double-Edged Sword

Proper ventilation is crucial for minimizing toxin exposure during remodeling. While opening windows and doors helps dissipate VOCs and dust, it also invites weather-related discomfort. Enduring extreme temperatures (like a South Texas Summer) while surrounded by construction noise and open windows isn't anyone's idea of comfort.

The Contractor Tango: A Balancing Act

Sharing your living space with a construction crew for weeks or months can be disruptive.  The constant flow of workers, tools, and materials can make it difficult to maintain a sense of normalcy.  Simple tasks like cooking dinner or getting ready for work can become an obstacle course. Further, a construction crew trying to navigate your routine and schedule can also slow down the project's overall efficiency. 

Beyond the Obvious: Additional Considerations

There are other factors to weigh:

• Pets and Children: The presence of pets and young children can be a significant concern during a remodel. Keeping them safe from dust, debris, and potentially hazardous materials requires extra vigilance. At least relocating pets and children during active construction might be necessary.

• Noise and Disruption: Constant hammering, sawing, and general construction noise can be stressful and disruptive to work-from-home individuals or those with noise sensitivities (or any normal human being for that matter).

• Plumbing and Electrical Disruptions: Depending on the scope of your remodel, you might face temporary disruptions to your home's plumbing and electrical systems. This can significantly impact your daily routine and comfort level.

• Mental and Emotional Toll: Living in a construction zone can be psychologically taxing. The constant mess, noise, and disruption can take a toll on your mental well-being and patience.

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How To Minimize Toxin Exposure When Living In Your Home During A Renovation

If, after careful consideration, you’re feeling brave and decide to stay in your home during the remodel phase, here are some tips to minimize your exposure to toxins:

• Seal Off the Renovation Zone: Work with your contractor to create a contained work area using plastic sheeting and doorway barriers. This minimizes dust and VOCs spreading throughout the rest of your living space.

• HEPA + Carbon Air Purifiers: Invest in high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers with activated carbon filters for the rooms you'll be occupying. HEPA filters capture dust particles, while the carbon filters absorb harmful chemicals and VOCs, providing a two-pronged approach to cleaner air.

• Select Non-Toxic Construction Materials: Minimize your exposure to VOCs with healthier material choices. Check out this blog post on non-toxic glues!

• Schedule Strategically: Coordinate with your contractor to schedule noisy or dusty work for times when you can be out of the house- i.e. during work/school hours or weekend trips.

• Minimize Time Spent in the Renovation Zone: Limit your time spent in the area undergoing renovation. If possible, create a temporary living space within your home, away from the construction zone.

• Dust Control Measures: Encourage your contractor to implement dust control measures like using vacuums with HEPA filters and wetting dusty materials before demolition.

• Clean Up Daily: Maintain a strict cleaning routine to remove dust and debris from surfaces throughout your home. Focus on frequently used areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms.

• Change Clothes: Dedicate specific clothing for use inside the renovation zone and change into clean clothes before re-entering your living areas.

• Shower Before Bed: Showering before bed helps remove dust particles that may have settled on your skin and hair throughout the day.

• Consider Professional Deep Cleaning: Once the major renovations are complete, consider a professional deep cleaning service to remove lingering dust and debris from your entire home. This professional cleaning should ideally utilize HEPA vacuums and other tools specifically designed for post-construction cleanup. Deep cleaning is standard practice after building a custom home but may need to be specifically requested for a renovation.

The Final Verdict: Should You Live in Your Home During a Renovation?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to stay in your home during a remodel is a personal one- but we HIGHLY recommend relocating if at all possible! Weigh the hassle of double rent or temporary housing against the potential health risks and disruption of living amidst construction.

Here’s a summary of key factors to consider when making your decision:

• The scope of the remodel: A small bathroom renovation might be more manageable than a whole-house project.

• The length of the project: Shorter projects are easier to endure while living on-site.

• Your personal health: If you have respiratory issues or allergies, exposure to dust and toxins might be more problematic.

• Your budget and relocation options: The cost of temporary housing can be a significant factor, but consider family and friends who may be willing to take you in (we know-easier said than done!). 

• The presence of infants and children: Please consider at least relocating these vulnerable guys to stay with family during peak construction. 

• Your tolerance for disruption: Consider how well you and your family can cope with the noise, mess, and inconvenience of a renovation.

No matter which path you choose, prioritizing open communication with your contractor is key. Discuss your concerns about dust, VOCs, and minimizing disruption.  A reputable contractor will work with you to develop a plan that best serves your priorities.

By understanding the challenges and taking the necessary precautions, you can create a safe and healthy environment for yourself and your family, even during a renovation!

P.S. Curious about non-toxic materials to use during your renovation? Download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home or Remodel”

Non-Toxic Home-Building: Navigating Glues and Adhesives for Your Healthy Home-Build or Remodel

If you are searching for non-toxic home-building materials or low-VOC options, you have come to the right place! Building a healthy home for your family shouldn’t mean sacrificing quality. Our focus today is to help you understand the glues and adhesives used in construction so you can make informed choices throughout your healthy home-building journey.

Key Points For Non-Toxic Glues:

• Healthy home builders prioritize low-toxic building materials, including glues and adhesives.

• Popular options like Titebond III, ECOS Wood Glue, Gorilla Wood Glue, and AFM Almighty Adhesive offer varying strengths and weaknesses for healthy home construction.

• Consider project needs, health concerns, material types, and budget when choosing the right non-toxic or low-VOC glue or adhesive.

• Titebond III is an excellent choice where affordability, availability, performance, and low VOC content all intersect.

• Open communication with your builder is key to ensuring they use safe building materials throughout the construction process, including low-VOC construction adhesives for flooring.

• Building a healthy home is achievable! This guide empowers you to make informed choices and collaborate with your builder to create a safe and beautiful home for your family.

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

Prioritizing a Healthy Home, Not Compromising Quality:

Your custom home builder must share your commitment to protecting your family's health. This means prioritizing non-toxic and low-VOC materials, without compromising your home’s quality or performance. Thankfully, several glues and adhesives offer both safety and strength.

Non-Toxic Glue Options for Your Home:

• Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue: A classic choice known for its affordability, bond strength, and water-resistance. While low in VOCs, it's not entirely solvent-free.

• ECOS Wood Glue: This zero-VOC champ is ideal for sensitive environments and boasts good bond strength for most woodworking projects. Its price point might be slightly higher than some options.

• Gorilla Wood Glue: Renowned for its exceptional bond strength, making it perfect for demanding tasks. However, it contains formaldehyde, a concern worth noting, and isn't solvent-free.

• AFM Almighty Adhesive: This high-performance option goes beyond wood, bonding diverse materials with strong, water-resistant results. It's solvent-free, environmentally friendly, and exceeds all VOC regulations, but carries a higher price tag.

Choosing the Right Non-Toxic Glue for Your Project:

The best non-toxic glue depends on your specific needs and priorities. Discuss these with your builder:

• Project requirements: For critical structural elements, prioritize superior bond strength like that offered by Titebond III or Gorilla Wood Glue.

• Health concerns: If minimizing VOCs is paramount, ECOS Wood Glue or AFM Almighty Adhesive are excellent.

• Material types: If bonding diverse materials beyond wood, AFM Almighty Adhesive is a great choice.

• Budget considerations: Titebond III often stands out for its affordability.

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What is the best non-toxic glue for building a healthy home?

• We, personally, find Titebond III to be one of the best choices where affordability, availability, performance, and low-VOC content all intersect.

Healthy Home Construction Beyond the Glue:

Remember, glues are just one piece of the puzzle. Trust a builder who uses low-toxic materials throughout the construction process, from paints and flooring to insulation and ventilation. Open communication and transparency are key to ensuring your healthy home prioritizes both your family's health and high-quality craftsmanship.

Additional Tips:

• Ask your builder for detailed information on the specific glues and adhesives they use and their VOC content.

• Look for certifications like GREENGUARD Gold or Cradle to Cradle Certified, indicating low-VOC emissions.

• Prioritize good ventilation during and after construction to minimize exposure to any VOCs.

Building a healthy and beautiful home is possible! By prioritizing healthy home construction and collaborating with a builder who shares your values, you can create a space that fosters well-being for many generations.

P.S. Looking for more non-toxic home-building materials? Check out this blog post on plywood and download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home”!

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Non-Toxic Home-Building: Plywood Edition

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Welcome back to our continued series on non-toxic home-building! This week we are focusing on a longtime staple in the realm of construction materials: plywood. In the quest for a non-toxic home, it's essential to delve into the world of plywood, considering its uses, the prevalence of OSB (Oriented Strand Board), the potential dangers of off-gassing, and how to make choices that align with your health-conscious goals.

Uses of Plywood in Home Construction

Plywood is a versatile material, often employed in sheathing, flooring, and roofing. Its layers of thin wood veneers glued together create a robust and durable panel, providing structural integrity to various elements of your home.

OSB vs. Plywood: A Shift in Preference for a Non-Toxic Home

In recent years, Oriented Strand Board (OSB) has gained popularity as a substitute for plywood. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that OSB might not be the healthiest choice due to concerns related to off-gassing and toxicity.

Dangers of OSB and the Importance of Structurally Approved Plywood

OSB, while structurally sound, can pose risks in terms of off-gassing. Off-gassing is the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and in the case of OSB, formaldehyde is a key player. To ensure a healthier living space, opting for structurally approved plywood for sheathing becomes paramount.

Why emphasize structurally approved? Soy-based glues and bamboo forms of plywood are growing in popularity as the more health and environmentally-conscious options. However, these types are not structurally approved for sheathing, decking, flooring, etc. They are best used for furniture and cabinets. Make sure to use plywood approved for external and structural use for a long-lasting, durable home.

Understanding Urea Formaldehyde vs. Phenol Formaldehyde

Plywood and OSB contain adhesives, and understanding the types of adhesives used is crucial. Urea formaldehyde, a common adhesive, can release formaldehyde over time. In contrast, phenol formaldehyde is a safer alternative, known for lower emissions.

Recommended Brands of Non-Toxic Plywood

Selecting the right plywood involves considering not just the material but also the brand. Some reputable brands prioritize non-toxicity and sustainability. Researching and choosing wisely can align your construction with your commitment to a healthier home.

Both Weyerhaeuser and Roseburg manufacture plywood with phenol formaldehyde which can be purchased locally from lumber yards.

Warm and Humid Climates: A Challenge for Plywood Off-Gassing

Warm and humid climates can accelerate formaldehyde off-gassing from plywood. This is particularly relevant in our South Texas climate. The combination of higher temperatures and humidity levels facilitates chemical reactions, leading to the breakdown of formaldehyde molecules and their release into the air. In such conditions, the wood fibers in the plywood may swell, creating spaces for formaldehyde to escape more easily.

Tips to Minimize Off-Gassing in Warm and Humid Climates:

Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and doors to allow fresh air circulation.

Acclimation: Allow plywood to acclimate to the climate before use by storing it in the installation environment for several weeks.

Sealing: Apply a sealant or paint to the plywood to create a barrier, preventing formaldehyde from evaporating into the air. (Make sure the sealant is low-VOC!)

By incorporating these tips into your construction plans, you're taking proactive steps to reduce off-gassing, creating a healthier indoor environment for you and your family. Every choice in construction contributes to the overall well-being of your home.

If you walk away with nothing else from this blog, remember this- use plywood made with phenol-formaldehyde and VENTILATE.

P.S. Looking for more non-toxic home-building materials? Check out this blog post on glues and adhesives and download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home”!

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Non-Toxic Home Building: Insulation for Healthy Homes

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Today we are diving DEEP into non-toxic insulation for your healthy home-build. To briefly summarize:

• Spray foam is considered the most effective for air sealing and resisting heat flow in the short term, but is saturated with chemicals/toxins and loses its integrity over time.

• Fiberglass is the cheapest insulation option but has an average performance quality and often contains formaldehyde and fire retardants

• Cellulose is another less expensive option that also contains few chemicals, however, it has a similarly average performance quality

• Mineral and spray wool are considered the most non-toxic, have superior sound-proofing, the spray or blown-in option is highly effective for air sealing, and cost less than spray foam.

• If building a non-toxic home is your goal, download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home”!

Read on for all of the details so you can make the best insulation choice for your non-toxic home.

The Concern for Toxins in Insulation

Insulation is one of the most important factors in keeping your home comfortable and the energy bill low. It helps to keep your home cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and can also help to reduce noise levels.

However, traditional insulation has been laden with chemicals in the form of formaldehyde and fire retardants. So how do you make the healthiest decision for your family and your home?

Today we are going to share an overview of the primary forms of insulation along with their respective advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day, you will have to choose the insulation that supports your health, climate, AND budget.

Home Insulation Terminology

But first, let’s review some basic terminology:

• R-value: The R-value of an insulation material measures its resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation.

• Fire resistance: The fire resistance of an insulation material measures how well it can withstand fire. Insulation materials with a high fire resistance rating can help slow the spread of fire and protect your home in the event of a fire.

• Air sealing: Air sealing measures how well an insulation material can prevent air leaks. Air leaks can reduce the effectiveness of your insulation and increase your energy bills.

• Soundproofing: Soundproofing measures how well an insulation material can reduce noise levels. Insulation materials with a high soundproofing rating can help to create a more peaceful and comfortable home.

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Primary Home Insulation Types

Fiberglass: Fiberglass is the most common type of insulation used in homes. It is made from thin glass fibers that are bonded together with a resin. Fiberglass insulation is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but it can be irritating to the skin and eyes.

Cellulose: Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products, such as newspapers and cardboard. It is a good choice for homeowners who are looking for a non-toxic and environmentally friendly insulation option. Cellulose insulation is also relatively inexpensive, but it can be more difficult to install than fiberglass insulation.

Mineral wool: Mineral wool insulation is made from natural materials, such as rock or slag. It is a good choice for homeowners who are looking for a fire-resistant and soundproofing insulation option. Mineral wool insulation is more expensive than fiberglass or cellulose insulation, but it is also more durable and long-lasting.

Spray foam: Spray foam insulation is the most effective type of insulation available. It is made from a mixture of chemicals that are sprayed onto surfaces to form a seamless barrier. Spray foam insulation is very good at sealing air leaks and preventing heat loss. However, it is also the most expensive type of insulation and can be difficult to install.

Rigid foam: Rigid foam insulation is made from a variety of materials, such as polystyrene, polyurethane, and polyisocyanurate. It is a good choice for insulating walls, floors, and roofs. Rigid foam insulation is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but it is not as effective at sealing air leaks as spray foam insulation.

Spray wool: Spray wool is a type of insulation made from molten rock or wool that is sprayed on surfaces to form a seamless barrier. It has a number of advantages over other types of insulation, including:

• High R-value: Spray wool has an R-value of >4 per inch. This means that it provides excellent thermal insulation, helping to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

• Airtightness: Spray wool forms a continuous seal, preventing air leaks from occurring. This can help to improve energy efficiency and reduce drafts.

• Fire resistance: Spray wool is non-combustible and has a high melting point, making it an excellent choice for fire protection.

• Soundproofing: Spray wool can also help to reduce noise levels, making your home more peaceful and comfortable.

• Wool is naturally mold-resistant

Factors to Consider When Choosing Insulation

There are several factors to consider when choosing insulation for your home, including:

Climate: The type of insulation you choose will depend on the climate you live in. If you live in a cold climate, you will need insulation with a high R-value. The R-value of an insulation material measures its resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.

Budget: Insulation costs can vary depending on the type of insulation you choose and the amount of insulation you need. Fiberglass and cellulose insulation are the least expensive types of insulation, while spray foam insulation is the most expensive.

Fire resistance: If you live in an area with a high risk of wildfires, you may want to choose an insulation material with a high fire resistance rating. Spray wool and mineral wool insulation have high fire resistance ratings.

Soundproofing: If you are concerned about noise levels, you may want to choose an insulation material with a high soundproofing rating. Mineral wool and spray wool insulation have high soundproofing ratings.

Comparison Breakdown

The following table provides a comparison breakdown of the primary forms of insulation, including spray wool:

Insulation Type | R-Value per Inch | Fire Resistance | Air Sealing | Soundproofing | Average Cost

Fiberglass | 3.1-4.3 | Good | Good | Fair | $0.50-$0.90

Cellulose | 3.7-3.8 | Good | Good | Good | $0.60-$1.00

Mineral Wool | 3.2-4.3 | Good | Good | Good | $0.70-$1.10

Spray Foam | 6.5-7 | Excellent | Excellent | Fair | $1.20-$2.00 Rigid Foam | 4.1-7 | Excellent | Excellent | Fair | $1.00-$1.50

Spray Wool | 4.3 | Excellent | Excellent | Good | $0.90-$1.50

Non-Toxic Home Insulation Recommendations

If you are looking for non-toxic insulation, mineral wool and spray wool are good options! Both materials are made from natural materials, are renewable and sustainable, and do not contain any added chemicals or flame retardants.

Mineral wool is more budget-friendly while still remaining non-toxic and effective. Spray wool is a good choice for homeowners who are looking for the most effective insulation possible. However, both options are traditionally less expensive than spray foam.

Conclusion

The best type of insulation for your home is a personal decision that depends on your budget, climate, and specific needs. However, if it were up to us, we would choose between the spray-on options for rock wool and sheep’s wool. Some brands to consider are Havelock, American Rockwool, and Oregon Sheppard.

Here’s to having healthier homes!

P.S. Looking for more non-toxic home-building materials? Check out this blog post on plywood and download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home”!