Peek at a Healthy Home Remodel
By Ally Evander, Allied Member, ASID
LiLu has just started work on a project for a long time client that we so enjoy working with who recently learned that the basement of her home has a big mold problem. No homeowner wants to hear that news. She has asked us to help with the necessary basement remodel. The focus will of course be on creating a lower level that is a healthy environment for hanging out, doing laundry, and storage.
The first step in this project will be to seal up the basement and fix the root cause of the mold. Then, it's LiLu's job to find products that will support a healthy enviroment. That means we need materials that are resistant to mold growth. It also means that we want to choose materials that won't put other harmful substances into the enviroment.
Here are some of the materials we plan on using in the new design:
Benjamin Moore Aura Formula Paint:
No VOCs- Unlike other paints, this formula does not release Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs) into the air. Chemical off-gasing can occur long after the paint has dried and you can no longer detect a smell. It is also a high quality, durable and long lasting paint.
Stonepeak ACTIVE High Tech Porcelain Tile:
This floor tile actually cleans the air! It has a coating of Titanium Dioxide (TIO2) on the surface that is activated by artifical or natural light. The TIO2 reduces atmospheric pollutants and bacteria on the tile's surface. It is a much better alternative to carpet for people who are sensitive to allergens.
3Form EcoResin Panels:
3Form panels are made from recycled materials and natural plant materials. As a decorative element, these panels bring in a sense of "zen" with their organic shapes. But they are also Greenguard Indoor Air Quality Certified, which means it is very low in VOCs, carginogens, pollutants, etc.
Pollack Pure Fabrics:
The Pure collection of fabrics from Pollack features fabrics made from all natural fibers. No harsh chemical dyes are used. The emphasis is palced on textures and natural colors over saturated hues and texture. They are a natural choice for window treatments and anywhere else we will need to use textiles.
