Toxic Building Materials
Because we human beings have managed to pollute the water, air and earth, our Mother Nature suffers. We know now that to stay healthy we must take precautions in some areas when we go in the great outdoors – or even in our backyard. But, it is probably a surprise to most people that even the “great indoors” can be unhealthy and polluted also. Many of our homes and buildings are so toxic that they are unfit to live and work in.
Today unfortunately many of our modern homes and buildings, even cars that shelter and protect us from the elements contain invisible vapors that slowly poison us as they give shelter! Contamination sources are many – and far too unrecognized and unaddressed.
Toxic building materials are the major source of environmental contaminants inside our homes, schools and places of business. Over the years builders have used many dangerous substances. The evils of asbestos are well-known. Other deadly substances include roofing materials and insulation – especially those made with formaldehyde, because they leak poisonous vapors.
Wallpaper and paints are also laden with dangerous chemicals that emit silent poisonous gasses. In addition, the horrors of lead paint still threaten many people living in older homes. What about synthetic carpets? That soft carpeting that feels cozy to your feet is often a chemical soup which constantly sheds toxic vapors into your home. Crawling toddlers are the most vulnerable.
The preservation of health is a duty. Few seem conscious that there is such a thing as physical morality. – Herbert Spencer
Do not underestimate the dangers posed by synthetic carpeting! A Honolulu attorney we knew was slowly paralyzed as a result of the toxic vapors given off from his new office carpeting. After several years of litigation, his family finally won a large lawsuit against those responsible for his suffering and death.
Formaldehyde Gives Off Toxic Vapors
Above your head, under your feet, on and in your walls, all around you in your home, formaldehyde could be poisoning your home and you. Contractors continue to use this chemical as a preservative, binding agent and insulator. It turns up everywhere in our homes and buildings. Despite its widespread use, we know that formaldehyde is an eye, nose, throat and skin irritant – and is a suspected carcinogen!
How do you cure your house of formaldehyde sickness? Unfortunately little can be done unless you build your house from scratch with careful attention to using only safe, natural building materials. Beyond this, only time will purify and heal the sick home. Over many years the toxic residues in building materials emit less and less harmful vapors, making the older home a healthier home - and the people who live there become healthier too. Our Santa Barbara home is over 80.
Beware of Invisible Radon Dangers
Many factors, some obvious and some not, contribute to the toxic burden of our living and working spaces. Like formaldehyde, radon is an invisible killer lurking in many of our homes and buildings. This odorless, colorless gas is a naturally occurring radioactive byproduct given off by stones, soil and water. Radon is a hit or miss threat depending on the land where a home is built. Also all natural stones and bricks used in construction should be checked for radon.
Although not much can be done, it’s important to find out if your home is sick from radon contamination. Contact your local health department and ask if you live in a high radon area. If you have any concerns, ask to have a radon test done in your home. Also ask about remedial actions. If your home has high radon levels, seriously consider moving into a healthy home. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
Read the next related articles:
Healthy Home Environment is Important Check for Lead, Radon, Formaldehyde
Having a Healthy, Safe Home and More
