At RG Home Designs, we are committed to creating beautiful, functional, and healthy living spaces. As part of our holistic design philosophy, we believe that the materials we use in a home should not only be visually stunning but should also support the health and well-being of the people who live there. This commitment to health and sustainability is ever-evolving as we continue to learn more about the impact certain products have on our environment and our bodies. As new research emerges and safer, healthier alternatives become available, we constantly reassess the products we use in our designs. Below are some of the materials we no longer use in our projects, and the reasons why we’ve made the shift. We consider them red flag products.
RED FLAG PRODUCT 1 Spray Insulation: Harmful Fumes and Mold Risks
Spray foam insulation, once a popular choice for its energy-efficient properties, is a product we no longer incorporate into our holistic designs. While it may initially seem like a great solution for insulating a home, we’ve learned that spray foam insulation emits fumes that are dangerous for long-term exposure, affecting the air quality inside the home. These fumes can linger for extended periods, potentially leading to respiratory issues and headaches. Additionally, spray foam insulation can trap moisture, creating an ideal environment for mold growth. Over time, it can even damage roofing materials, leading to costly repairs. With so many safer and more sustainable insulation options available, we now opt for eco-friendly alternatives that support a healthier indoor environment.
RED FLAG PRODUCT 2 Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Chemicals and PVC Concerns
At one time, we used Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring as a go-to option for its durability and ease of maintenance. However, we’ve since learned about the potential health risks associated with this material. LVP is often made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which contains harmful chemicals like phthalates—substances linked to hormone disruption. Moreover, LVP can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, contributing to poor indoor air quality. VOCs, which include a range of chemicals, can cause headaches, dizziness, and long-term respiratory problems. Additionally, some LVP products also contain fungicides and other toxic chemicals, which can further compromise health. Because your skin is your largest organ, walking barefoot on these floors can lead to exposure to these harmful substances, making it a material we no longer recommend in our holistic designs.
RED FLAG PRODUCT 3 Traditional Paint: VOC-Free Alternatives for Healthier Air
Traditional paints, especially those that contain high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are a product we avoid in our designs. VOCs are chemicals that are released into the air as the paint dries, and they can linger for much longer than previously thought. These compounds contribute to indoor air pollution, which can lead to headaches, dizziness, and even long-term health issues. As part of our commitment to creating healthy, non-toxic spaces, we now exclusively partner with vendors who provide VOC-free paints. These paints offer the same aesthetic appeal but without the harmful fumes, ensuring that the air inside your home remains clean and safe for you and your family.
RED FLAG PRODUCT 4 Area Rugs with Toxic Chemicals: Flame Retardants, Dyes, and Coatings
While area rugs can enhance the look and feel of a room, many traditional rugs contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to your health. Common concerns with mass-produced rugs include flame retardants, which are often added to make rugs more fire-resistant, but are known to be linked to hormone disruption and other health issues. Additionally, many rugs are treated with toxic dyes, water-resistant coatings, and stain repellents, all of which can release harmful chemicals into the air or come into contact with your skin. Instead of using rugs with these hazardous chemicals, we now prioritize natural, untreated fibers like wool, jute, or cotton, which are safer for both the environment and the health of your family.
RED FLAG PRODUCT 5 Traditional Plywood: The Formaldehyde Problem
In the past, we frequently used traditional plywood in various aspects of our designs. However, we now avoid it due to the presence of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen that is commonly found in the adhesives used to bond plywood layers. Formaldehyde is a potent VOC that can be emitted into the air long after installation, causing respiratory issues and increasing the risk of cancer with prolonged exposure. Fortunately, there are now formaldehyde-free plywood options available that offer the same strength and durability, but without the health risks. We prioritize these safer materials in all of our designs to ensure the well-being of our clients.
A Growing and Evolving Process
Our commitment to creating homes that support the health of both the people inside them and the planet is always growing and evolving. As new products are developed, and as we continue to learn more about the impact of various materials, we make conscious decisions to integrate only the safest, most sustainable options into our designs. We believe that holistic design is not a one-size-fits-all approach but a dynamic process of constant learning and improvement. With each project, we strive to ensure that the spaces we create not only look beautiful but also promote a healthy, vibrant lifestyle for the families who live there.
In conclusion, our decision to stop using certain products is rooted in our dedication to promoting a healthier home environment. As part of our holistic design philosophy, we focus on materials and products that are safer, non-toxic, and better for the long-term well-being of our clients. We will continue to grow and adapt our approach as new products arise, ensuring that every home we create supports a healthier lifestyle for the families who live there.
Comments