Just Because It’s New Doesn’t Mean It’s Healthy
At Two Structures Homes, this is why we build differently. Our Built Better approach focuses not only on energy efficiency, but also on material quality, ventilation, and construction practices that support healthier indoor air and long-term comfort.
When shopping for a new home, many buyers assume that brand-new automatically means safe, clean, and healthy. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. In an effort to keep construction costs down, some builders choose lower-quality materials or shortcuts that can negatively impact both a home’s performance and the health of the people living in it.
If you’re considering a new home, here are several key areas to pay close attention to to help ensure your home is not only beautiful—but also healthy.
Insulation
Low-quality or poorly installed insulation can do more than hurt energy efficiency. When insulation traps moisture inside walls or attics, it creates an ideal environment for mold and bacteria to grow. Proper insulation, installed correctly, helps regulate temperature, control humidity, and reduce the risk of unhealthy microbial growth.
Framing & Wood Products
While wood is a natural building material, not all wood products are created equal. Some framing lumber, flooring, cabinetry, and engineered wood products may contain formaldehyde or other harmful chemicals. Because wood is used throughout the structure of a home, choosing high-quality, low-emission materials is critical to protecting indoor air quality.
PVC Materials
PVC is commonly used in siding, windows, plumbing, and gutter systems. When lower-grade PVC products are used, they can off-gas chemicals that negatively affect indoor air quality. Quality standards and reputable manufacturers matter—not just for durability, but for health and safety as well.
Carpet
Many new carpets can release chemicals such as benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, styrene, and acetone—a process known as off-gassing. Because children and pets spend more time close to the floor, they are often the most exposed. Low-VOC carpet options or alternative flooring materials can significantly reduce this risk.
Wall Coverings & Paint
Paints, sealants, and wallpapers are among the most common sources of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a new home. Lower-quality products can contribute to headaches, respiratory irritation, and long-term health concerns. Builders who use low-VOC paints and safe adhesives help create a healthier indoor environment from day one.
Ventilation
Even with quality materials, a home without proper ventilation can trap pollutants inside. Healthy homes require a balanced system that brings in fresh, filtered air while exhausting stale, contaminated air. Proper ventilation plays a crucial role in maintaining good indoor air quality and reducing exposure to harmful particles and chemicals.
Outdoor Chemicals
The exterior environment matters too. Newly finished lawns and landscaping are often treated with pesticides that contain hazardous chemicals. While these products are inexpensive and easy to apply, they can pose risks to children, pets, and the environment. Natural or low-toxicity landscaping options are a healthier alternative worth considering.
Building Homes That Are Better—and Healthier
A home should do more than look good—it should support your family’s health, comfort, and long-term well-being. Paying attention to materials, installation quality, and ventilation can make a meaningful difference in how a home feels and performs over time.
Choosing the right builder and asking the right questions can help ensure your new home is not just new—but truly healthy.
Every Two Structures Home is ENERGY STAR® certified and built with a focus on healthier materials, proper ventilation, and long-term performance.