Building a home has become more complicated than ever in many ways. The high cost of energy and the discomfort caused by drafty homes has led to the construction of tightly built houses. However, with increased comfort and efficiency comes the potential for increased presence of indoor air pollutants. In fact, the EPA ranked indoor air pollution as the number one environmental hazard in 1994. Potential health complications from tightly sealed homes include:

• Asthma - #1 chronic disease among children today. Between 1980 and 1994, the number of asthma cases increased by 75%.
• Increased potential for moisture-related problems. Moisture leads to molds and molds lead to other health problems. For example, a 1999 Mayo Clinic study linked nearly 100% of chronic sinus infections to molds.
• Increased concentrations of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). VOCs include radon gas, formaldehyde, and a host of other toxins. Leading studies suggest radon is the #2 cause of lung cancer following smoking.
  

Should we return to the days of drafty houses and high energy consumption? Not at all. We simply need to use Health Home building techniques. A Health Home enjoys the benefits of tighter, energy-efficient construction while making every effort to remove toxins from the air.

Some of the features of a Health Home include:

• Water-proofed foundation and sealed footings to prevent moisture and molds.
  
• Basement floor sealant to prevent radon gas from rising to the living area.
  
• Sealed duct work to prevent moisture migration and increased energy efficiency.
  
• High performance windows to improve energy efficiency and reduce window condensation.
  
• Every appliance, cabinet, flooring, paint and stain product is specifically selected to minimize concentrations of harsh chemicals.
  
  

A Health Home is built to last! A Health Home is built to improve the quality of your life!

"When we build, let us think that we build forever. Let it not be for our present delight nor present use alone. Let it be such work as our descendants will thank us for"

John Ruskin

Cornerstone Builders shares that vision. It's just one more reason we're a "Builder for Life."