Prescriptions for a Healthy House, 4th Edition: A Practical Guide for Architects, Builders and Homeowners

Prescriptions for a Healthy House is the definitive resource you need to live in a healthy home. This book ties together proper home design practices, construction techniques, the resources and the healthiest products you should consider for your home. It provides the big picture that homeowners crave, and the intricate details that architects, designers, and contractors require. The recommendations are based on research and decades of experience “in the trenches.” The book is pertinent to anyone interested in building or remodeling a home or workplace that is not only beautiful, but also durable and health-enhancing. In this newest edition of “Prescriptions for a Healthy House,” authors Paula Baker-Laporte and John Banta have put together a treasure trove of useful and often difficult-to-find information. Although there is nothing complicated about constructing healthier homes, building for health is still not standard practice, and in fact there are many aspects of conventional home construction that are detrimental to human wellbeing. Homeowners can avoid the suffering and expense of making mistakes that will impact their health sooner or later. Written in simple to understand language, homeowners will be able to make educated decisions and communicate with the building team. From foundation to rooftop, to home care and repair, Prescriptions for a Healthy House takes the mystery out of healthy-house building, renovation and maintenance, by walking the owner/architect/builder team through the entire construction process. This book is for everyone who wants to live in the healthiest home possible from those challenged with an existing illness from toxic chemical, mold or EMR exposure to those who want a home that supports their family to flourish. Some topics include: · How much more will it cost to build a healthy home? · How to read an SDS to protect your health · Language for the homeowner to include in contractual agreements · Scientific research on harmful materials and practices · Case studies to guide the improvement of your health · Precise product discussions of materials used in the home · Homeowner’s maintenance guide This unique guide will appeal to architects, designers, contractors, medical professionals and homeowners in its thorough discussions regarding: Frame construction alternatives Thermal and moisture control Finishes Flooring Furnishings Electromagnetic Radiation