| Minimize Pests |
| • | | Seal the building envelope. |
| • | | Use materials that are impervious to pests and/or lumber treated with borates. |
| • | | Do not allow any untreated wood to be in direct contact with soil. |
| • | | Keep wood portions of house at least 18" from the finished grade at exterior. |
| |
| Reduce Toxic Chemicals |
| • | | Use low VOC (under 250 g/l) paints, glues and finishes. |
| • | | Flooring: Avoid wall to wall carpeting. Choose either hardwood or tile. |
| • | | Interior wood: If you don't choose solid wood cabinetry then look for either sealed or formaldehyde free Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF). Avoid using any wood products with exposed particleboard and always choose solid wood furniture when possible. |
| • | | Exterior wood: Choose arsenic-free lumber only for decking or play structures. Make sure to never use copper chromium arsenate (CCA)-treated wood products anywhere above grade. |
| |
| Source: Energy Star Homes program in New England, "Home Health Advisor Checklist"
|
