Water Pipes
Specify copper pipe, which typically has the least impact, especially when it’s recycled copper. Avoid lead solders and don’t use copper if your water has a low pH; acidic water can corrode copper and ingesting high levels of copper has been linked to liver and kidney damage. In this case, use polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT).
Countertops
Choose countertops that don’t require sealing and minimize plastic, such as quartz, dense granite, ceramic tile, and porcelain slabs. Engineered stone has some drawbacks, for example it can release dangerous silica dust in the air when cut, but it’s still preferable to plastic laminate or sealed stone countertops.
Walls
Select drywall made with natural gypsum (avoids mercury releases during manufacturing) and whenever possible avoid mold inhibitors. Paints made from lime and mineral silicate, two naturally occurring materials, are the best choices because they reduce or avoid plastic and hazardous additives found in standard acrylic paints. A good second choice is a water-based acrylic or latex paint with low-VOC content and low-VOC emissions. Non-combustible sodium silicate caulk is the best option among firestopping materials, which are used to slow the spread of fire within walls.
Insulation
Pick insulation made from natural materials, including cork, cellulose, wool, and recycled fabric. Fiberglass and mineral wool are also generally good choices, though it’s best to choose unfaced and formaldehyde-free options.
Foundation
Make use of bentonite sheet waterproofing. If bentonite does not work for your application, consider crystalline waterproofing or non-PVC thermoplastic sheet waterproofing.
Flooring
Use plant- or mineral-based flooring options whenever possible such as natural linoleum, unfinished concrete, ceramic tile, wood, and cork.
Acoustic Ceilings
Prioritize natural materials like wool, fiberglass, mineral wool, and cementitious wood fiber. Ask your supplier to provide formaldehyde-free options.
Roofing
Opt for either Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) or ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) membranes, which are made with fewer hazardous chemicals than other product types, including PVC. For fireproofing roof decks and other structural elements, use gypsum or Portland cement-based spray fire protection.
Cabinetry and Doors
Go for solid wood. A second-best choice is plywood, but make sure the binder used to make it does not contain formaldehyde. Select water-based, factory-applied finishes for solid wood cabinetry and doors, and polyurethane foam tape for sealing perimeter joints around doors.