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: 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.

The Foundation of Non-Toxic Home Building: In-Duct Air Purification Systems

Creating a non-toxic home can feel like an overwhelming task, with a myriad of decisions to make. But, here's a secret: you can simplify the journey by focusing on one of the most critical aspects of indoor air quality – in-duct air purification systems.

Picture this: Instead of shelling out thousands of dollars for bulky air purifiers in every room, you can invest around $500 in an in-duct purification system that cleanses the air throughout your entire home. The best part? If you're building a new home from the ground up, the additional installation cost is almost negligible because your HVAC technician is already on-site.

Why is air purification a cornerstone of non-toxic home building?

Well, it's no secret that our indoor air can harbor undesirable particles. While we aim to minimize these pollutants, an air purifier steps in to bridge the gap where we might fall short.

But not all air purifiers are created equal. When considering an in-duct air purification system for your home, look for one that goes beyond the basics of dust and pollen. Seek out a system that filters out VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), which can emanate from common household items like paints, cleaning products, and furniture.

Mold spores are another concern for indoor air quality. A top-notch in-duct purifier should be efficient at trapping these potentially harmful particles. And if you have a bustling household with kids, consider a system that can tackle viruses, adding an extra layer of protection to your home.

So, why start with air quality when building a non-toxic home?

It's simple – because it's a foundational step that immediately impacts your well-being. When your home's air is clean and fresh, you'll experience improved health, fewer allergies, and greater peace of mind.

At JD Rock Construction, we understand that creating a non-toxic home can feel like a daunting task. That's why we're here to guide you, step by step, through this journey. With an in-duct air purification system in place, you're not only investing in your family's health but also simplifying the path to a non-toxic home that aligns with your values.

Ready to take the first step towards a cleaner, healthier home? Reach out to us today and discover how we can help you build the non-toxic home of your dreams.

Remember, it's not about overwhelming yourself with decisions; it's about taking things one step at a time and focusing on what truly matters – the well-being of your loved ones.