RECOMMENDED MATERIALS
Efficient and sustainable materials include Renewable natural resources such as wood, bamboo, and sheep's wool; recycled and reused materials such as recycled concrete and steel, eco-bricks, and synthetic tiles; and innovative materials such as cellulose, cork, coconut fiber, and mycelium panels. La elección de estos materiales reduce la huella ecológica, mejora el confort térmico y acústico, disminuye los costos energéticos y utiliza recursos de forma más eficiente.
Natural and renewable materials
- Wood: Certified, responsibly sourced wood can be used for construction or as a base for high-performance panels.
- Bamboo: A fast-growing resource used in panels and cladding.
- Sheep wool: An excellent natural, renewable and biodegradable insulator.
- Ground: Rammed ground or adobe are ancient techniques that use clay to build walls.
- Cork: A natural material with excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
Recycled and reused materials
- Recycled concrete and steel: They reduce the demand for virgin resources and the generation of waste.
- Ecobricks: Plastic bottles filled with waste are used as insulation blocks.
- Synthetic tiles: Made from recycled materials, they offer durability and a lighter alternative to traditional shingles.
Innovative and alternative materials
- Cellulose: It can be used as a thermal insulator.
- Mycelium panels: Made from mushrooms, they are an innovative option for construction.
- Coconut fiber: An agricultural byproduct that can be used in building materials.
Benefits of sustainable materials
- Reducing the carbon footprint: By using materials with a lower environmental impact.
- Thermal and acoustic comfort: Improving the quality of life and the experience within the home.
- Cost savings: Reducing energy costs associated with home maintenance.
NOT RECOMMENDED MATERIALS
Hazardous building materials include asbestos, which causes serious respiratory illnesses when inhaled; lead, which affects the nervous system, blood and organs; and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), present in paints and insulation and harmful to the respiratory tract. Others include silica dust, formaldehyde, and certain wood preservatives such as CCA, all of which have negative impacts on health and the environment.
Materials and their risks:
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Asbestos:
An insulating, fire-resistant material whose microscopic fibers, when inhaled, can cause asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
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Lead:
Used until recently in pipes and paints, it is a cumulative toxic metal that damages the nervous system, blood, and kidneys.
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VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds):
They are released from paints, varnishes, adhesives and insulating materials, causing respiratory irritation, allergies, headaches and difficulty breathing.
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Silica powder:
Present in construction materials such as sand and concrete, its inhalation can cause silicosis, a chronic lung disease.
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Formaldehyde:
Found in wood products, insulation, and adhesives, it can irritate mucous membranes and respiratory tract, as well as trigger asthma.
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Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA):
A wood preservative that contains heavy metals such as arsenic, chromium, and copper, which are harmful to health and the environment.
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Mercury:
Used in some products, it can be toxic and contaminate the environment if not handled properly.
Why they are used less or avoided:
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Human health:
Many of these materials release toxic substances that can cause serious long-term illnesses or immediate health problems.
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Environmental impact:
The production of some materials generates a lot of energy and waste, while others are not biodegradable, contributing to climate change.
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Technology:
The industry has developed safer and more sustainable alternatives, such as zero- or low-VOC paints and recycled materials.
Recommendations:
- Look for materials with certifications such as HPD (Health Product Declaration) and EPD (Environmental Product Declaration).
- Prefer natural and low-carbon footprint materials.
- Consult a qualified professional to determine the most appropriate materials for your project.
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