The use of chemicals in home construction materials is a complex area with some oversight, but it's not as tightly regulated as many people assume. The truth is, many conventional building materials contain harmful substances that can silently impact our health and well-being.
Researchers at the University of Michigan identified over 50 chemicals used in today’s building materials. In some cases, the concentrations of these chemicals are 1,000 times higher than the recommended level.
One of the biggest offenders is formaldehyde, with one researcher saying he was "concerned about the levels of formaldehyde in buildings and that it continued to be commonly used despite its well-known carcinogenic effects, even at low levels."
Formaldehyde, among several other chemicals, is highly volatile and poses significant health concerns. Whether you’re remodeling, demolishing, or building anew, it’s important to exercise caution when working with certain materials that contain harsh substances. Here are some of the top culprits to be conscious about.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a composite material made from extremely fine glass fibers that are woven together to create a lightweight yet durable insulation option. It is commonly found in:
- Insulation for walls, attics, and ductwork
- Soundproofing materials
- Some roofing systems and siding
While fiberglass is effective for thermal insulation and sound absorption, the tiny glass fibers can become airborne and irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon contact. Prolonged exposure to fiberglass dust can lead to chronic respiratory issues and other health concerns, making proper safety measures essential during installation and renovation.
For fiberglass insulation alternatives, see our collection of eco-friendly weatherization productions.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are chemicals with a low boiling point that readily vaporize at room temperature, releasing fumes into the air. They are found in many building materials, including:
- Carpets and vinyl flooring
- Composite wood products
- Paints and varnishes
- Adhesives
VOCs can linger for a long time in certain building products. They cause eye and respiratory tract irritation, dizziness, and damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.
We offer a variety of low-VOC flooring options and non-toxic adhesive products.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a colorless, pungent-smelling gas commonly found in:
- Pressed wood products (particleboard, hardwood plywood paneling, medium-density fiberboard)
- Insulation
- Glues and adhesives
- Permanent-press fabrics and draperies
- Some paints and coating products
Formaldehyde can cause watery eyes, burning sensations in the eyes and throat, nausea, and difficulty breathing at elevated levels (above 0.1 parts per million). It may trigger asthma attacks and has been shown to cause cancer in animals and potentially in humans.
Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA)
CCA is a wood preservative that contains arsenic, chromium, and copper. It is commonly found in:
- Pressure-treated wood for outdoor use
- Decking and playground equipment (older installations)
- Fencing and utility poles
CCA can leach into the surrounding environment and pose health risks, including increased cancer risk, particularly for children exposed through skin contact or ingestion of wood particles
Lead
Lead, though its use has been restricted, can still be found in older homes in:
- Paint
- Plumbing pipes and fixtures
- Roofing materials
Lead exposure can cause serious health issues, particularly in children, including brain and nervous system damage, developmental delays, and learning difficulties. In adults, it can lead to cardiovascular effects, decreased kidney function, and reproductive problems.
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
BHA is a synthetic antioxidant and preservative commonly found in:
- Carpet flooring
- Food packaging materials
- Rubber products
- Some plastics used in construction
BHA is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen based on animal studies. It can cause allergic reactions in the skin and may interfere with hormone function.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Available in many forms, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) can contain chemicals like lead and phthalates that can be released into the air as it wears down. PVC is a common plastic used in:
- Water and sewage pipes
- Electrical cable insulation
- Window frames
- Flooring
PVC contains phthalates and dioxins, which can interfere with hormone production and are known to be potentially cancerous.
Asbestos
While no longer used in new construction, asbestos may be present in older homes in:
- Insulation
- Flooring tiles
- Roofing materials
- Pipe coverings
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious respiratory diseases, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Symptoms often appear decades after exposure. Asbestos fibers can become airborne when disturbed, posing a significant health risk when inhaled
Other Hazardous Chemicals
Additional toxic substances found in building materials include:
- Isocyanates: These are the main ingredients in spray foam insulation. They can cause severe respiratory problems and skin irritation, especially during application.
- Crystalline Silica: This natural mineral becomes dangerous when pulverized during construction, potentially leading to silicosis and lung cancer when inhaled.
- Cadmium: A toxic metal used in corrosion-resistant plating and pigments, cadmium poses significant health risks, including cancer, when ingested or inhaled.
- Flame Retardants: Added to materials like insulation and furniture foam, flame retardants help slow the spread of fire but are linked to various health issues, including cancer and reproductive problems.
- Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs): Used in stain-resistant treatments for carpets and fabrics, PFCs are persistent environmental pollutants associated with serious health concerns, including cancer and immune system disorders.
Depending on the level and duration of exposure, these chemicals can pose various health risks, from respiratory issues to cancer.
When building or renovating, it's important to be mindful of the products you are using and consider using safer alternatives when possible. If you have questions about healthier alternatives, contact us at Eco-Building Products.
