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DISCOVER WHY
MATERIAL SELECTION MATTERS
Material selection is a foundational decision in building a healthy home, directly affecting indoor air quality, occupant well-being, and long-term durability. The homes we live in should support our health, not compromise it, and the materials used to build it are central to that goal. Many conventional building materials such as paints, adhesives, flooring, and cabinetry can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, fungicides, and other harmful chemicals that accumulate in the indoor air, often going unnoticed. Over time, exposure to these substances can affect the immune system and contribute to chronic health conditions.
In contrast, thoughtfully selected safer materials, such as sustainable insulation, low-VOC finishes, and natural wood, create a safer indoor environment, improve air quality, and support our bodies rather than work against it. Beyond human health, choosing safe, sustainable materials also reduces environmental impact. Every material selection, from structural components to interior finishes, is an opportunity to protect the people who live there, making material selection one of the most important processes in creating a truly healthy home.
EXPLORE
COMMON HIDDEN TOXINS
Insulation Spray foam, fiberglass, and cellulose may contain harmful chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, isocyanates, flame retardants, as well as various others. Using natural or low-emission alternatives, such as mineral wool or sheep wool, helps keep your home healthier
Flooring Materials Many flooring products, such as vinyl and laminate, can off-gas chemicals during and after installation. Carpets also contain chemicals that can off-gas many years after installation, as well as being more difficult to clean to maintain healthy indoor air quality. Natural wood or non-toxic engineered flooring options help maintain a healthier environment
Paints & Adhesives Most conventional paints & adhesives contain VOCs and other harmful chemicals. Many zero or low-VOC options still contain harmful chemicals, such as ammonia or acetone, which are exempt from the EPA's list of VOCs. Some types of paint, such as acrylic, also act as vapor retarders that trap moisture inside wall cavities
Cabinetry & Wood Products Particleboard, plywood, MDF/HDF, and laminated wood often contain chemical binders that can off-gas into indoor air, especially when new. Choosing solid wood or formaldehyde-free alternatives reduces chemical exposure and helps keep indoor air healthier
Furniture & Upholstery Many sofas, chairs, and mattresses contain synthetic fabrics, dyes, flame retardants, or chemical treatments that can off-gas and affect indoor air quality, especially for sensitive individuals
LET'S DISCUSS
CHOOSING HEALTHIER MATERIALS
Selecting healthier building materials can feel overwhelming. With so much greenwashing and misleading marketing, it's hard to know which products are genuinely safe and which are not. Since no universal standard exists to verify safety for all individuals, the best approach is to stay informed - consider the following factors when selecting materials.
Research Verifying a product's material/chemical makeup helps ensure it's truly safe and free from harmful chemicals/additives, while also confirming the manufacturer's transparency and credibility ensures those claims are backed by trust, not marketing. Informed choices protect both your home and your health
Be Aware of Greenwashing Don't be fooled by trendy buzzwords like "eco," "green," or "non-toxic" without verifying the makeup of the advertised product. What matters most is what's actually in the product and how it affects the people who live with it
Testimonials Real-world experiences often tell the story better than a label. Testimonials from homeowners or builders provide honest insight into how a product looks, feels, and performs in daily life, helping you make confident choices about the materials that truly support well-being
Trust Yourself Everyone responds differently to the materials around them. A product/material that works well for one person may be problematic for another. Your comfort and well-being are the best guides for what belongs in your home