Just Because It’s New Doesn’t Mean It’s Healthy
When shopping for a new home, it’s easy to assume “brand-new” means safe and healthy. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. In order to keep construction costs down, some builders choose lower-quality materials that can impact not only a home’s performance, but also your family’s health.
At Two Structures Homes, we believe every home should be both energy efficient and healthy to live in. Here are some of the key areas buyers should pay attention to when making decisions about their next home.
Just Because It’s New Doesn’t Mean It’s Healthy
When shopping for a new home, it’s easy to assume “brand-new” means safe and healthy. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. In order to keep construction costs down, some builders choose lower-quality materials that can impact not only a home’s performance, but also your family’s health.
At Two Structures Homes, we believe every home should be both energy efficient and healthy to live in. Here are some of the key areas buyers should pay attention to when making decisions about their next home.
1. Insulation
Low-quality or poorly installed insulation isn’t just inefficient — it can also trap moisture, creating an environment where mold and bacteria thrive. Proper insulation, combined with expert installation, ensures your home stays comfortable, energy efficient, and free from harmful growth.
2. Framing & Wood Products
Wood is a natural material, but not all products are created equal. Some framing lumber, flooring, or cabinets can contain formaldehyde or other toxic chemicals. Choosing a builder that sources high-quality, low-VOC materials helps protect your indoor air quality.
3. PVC Products
PVC shows up everywhere in new homes — from siding and plumbing to windows and gutters. If it doesn’t meet certain quality standards, it can off-gas harmful chemicals. Builders who prioritize reputable manufacturers give homeowners peace of mind that their homes are safe as well as durable.
4. Carpeting
New carpet often contains chemicals like benzene, toluene, or styrene, which can linger in your indoor air. Since kids and pets spend the most time near carpet, it’s worth asking your builder about low-VOC or alternative flooring options that minimize exposure.
5. Wall Coverings
Paints and wallpapers are common sources of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to headaches, respiratory issues, and long-term health concerns. Look for builders who use low-VOC paints and safe adhesives. At Two Structures Homes, that’s our standard.
6. Ventilation
Even with the best materials, a home without proper ventilation can trap pollutants inside. ENERGY STAR® homes (like every Two Structures Home) include balanced, mechanical ventilation systems that bring in fresh air and expel stale, contaminated air — a must for maintaining a healthy living environment.
7. Outdoor Chemicals
Many newly finished lawns are treated with pesticides that contain hazardous chemicals. Ask about natural or low-toxic landscaping options to protect your family, pets, and the environment.
Building Healthier Homes, Built Better
At Two Structures Homes, we believe your home should do more than look good — it should support your family’s health and comfort. That’s why we use high-quality, proven materials, install advanced ventilation systems, and build to standards that go beyond code.
When you choose a Two Structures home, you don’t just get energy efficiency and lower utility bills — you get a healthier home for today and peace of mind for the future.
Ready to explore homes that are truly Built Better? Visit TwoStructuresHomes.com or schedule a tour today.