Moving is often a hassle, but finding a safe and healthy place to call home can be even more challenging. It’s not just about the number of bedrooms or the size of the kitchen; toxins can lurk in homes, just like they do in personal care products. Here are some essential questions to ask before buying or building a new home to ensure it’s a safe option for your family.
Let’s start with a reality check: no house is perfect. There are countless factors to consider, like the neighborhood, school district (if you’re not homeschooling), and square footage. While you might not find the perfect house, you can prioritize what matters most to you.
Personally, it’s important for me to have a home that minimizes health hazards such as mold, lead, formaldehyde, and EMF exposure. Here’s what to watch for, why it’s important to avoid certain elements, and how to deal with them if necessary.
One big topic is radiation exposure from EMFs, which are all around us in the modern world. I don’t aim to avoid them completely, but they can cause issues like insomnia and anxiety. Major sources of harmful EMFs include:
Massive power lines emit radiation up to nearly a quarter-mile away, while street power lines have a smaller range of about 82 feet. Houses near transformers are at higher risk. You can use a meter to test EMF waves in different rooms, making sure to turn off all electronics and lights first. Appliances and lightbulbs can give off EMFs that might interfere with readings.
With technology spreading fast, avoiding EMFs from outside is tough unless you’re completely off-grid. However, you can reduce exposure by avoiding homes that are too close to major EMF sources. If you can’t avoid them entirely, using non-toxic, EMF-blocking paint on indoor walls, especially bedrooms, is a good start.
Mold is a health hazard you don’t want in your house, causing problems even if you don’t see it. Water damage can hide in walls or ceilings, and improperly treated homes can still cause issues. Both new and old homes can have water damage; older homes generally have a higher risk. Watch for signs of damage when searching for a mold-free home.
There’s a lot of confusion about mold’s health impacts. Many inspectors aren’t well-versed in testing, and some remediation companies don’t take the best precautions. If mold is a concern, follow solid remediation and testing guidelines.
Beyond mold, consider what’s around the property. Is it near a big factory, landfill, or polluted area? Chemical runoff from farms or golf courses can affect groundwater and soil. You can check online maps to explore the surroundings before deciding on a property.
Inside the home, beware of common toxins like lead, asbestos, and formaldehyde, found in paint, flooring, and furniture. Asbestos is no longer used in new construction but can be present in older homes, something a good inspector should catch. It’s crucial to address any asbestos problems before moving in, as sellers should disclose this legally.
Lead, often found in homes built before 1978, is dangerous and can cause serious health problems. It’s also present in certain newer materials. Checking for lead in paint and plumbing is essential, and opting for non-toxic materials can help avoid issues.
Formaldehyde, found in many building materials, can trigger breathing issues. It’s present in higher levels than most people realize. Some products are marketed as non-toxic but may release formaldehyde as they dry. Look for trusted options to minimize exposure.
While many green building materials are marketed as VOC-free, that doesn’t always mean they’re safe. VOCs can be harmful, but the focus should be on avoiding toxins harmful to humans, not just those labeled as VOCs.
Toxins in building materials pose a particular risk to young children, especially those crawling and exploring everything with their mouths. It’s crucial to consider these factors in creating a safe environment.
While buying a home involves a lot of considerations, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By using healthy home buying tips, you can navigate the process more confidently. What factors are most important to you when buying or building a new home? Share your thoughts!
