The Building Envelope: Build Tight. Ventilate Right.
Most homes constantly leak air, energy, and pollutants through hidden gaps in the walls, roof, and attic. Discover how “build tight, ventilate right” transforms comfort, health, and efficiency with a properly sealed building envelope and balanced fresh-air ventilation using ERVs. Learn why airtight homes with ZIP System sheathing and modern ventilation outperform code-minimum builds, creating cleaner, healthier living environments that save energy year-round.
Healthy Home: A Builder’s Perspective
At Redwood Constructors, we believe a truly great home does more than look good, it makes you feel good. That’s why we design and build every home with health in mind: cleaner air, low-toxicity materials, and smarter systems that support long-term well-being. In this post, I break down what goes into building a healthy home and why it’s worth it.
Why We’re Building All-Electric, High-Efficiency Homes
After being hit with a $35,000 gas line installation fee on a recent project, we decided to rethink how we power our homes. The result? All-electric homes powered by solar, equipped with efficient heat pumps, induction cooking, and smart tech. It’s a smarter, healthier, and more resilient way to build without relying on outdated gas infrastructure.
Advanced Waterproofing Details
Waterproofing is where true home durability begins. At Redwood, we go far beyond code by sealing every window, door, and foundation transition with advanced materials and layered protection. From liquid-applied barriers to triple-layered foundation seals, our details defend against leaks, mold, rot, and pests. The result is a home that stays drier, lasts longer, and protects the air your family breathes.
What are healthy homes and why isn’t everyone building them?
We spend the majority of our lives inside our homes cooking, cleaning, relaxing, and yes, even working. That means our homes aren’t just buildings; they’re environments that directly impact our physical health, emotional well-being, and long-term quality of life. So why wouldn’t we build them to support our health in every way possible?
Foundation Details That Matter
Creating a healthy, energy-efficient home starts with the foundation. The type of foundation you choose directly impacts your home's comfort, energy performance, and indoor air quality. Here's how we approach foundation design with your health and efficiency in mind
Healthy HVAC Systems
When it comes to creating a truly healthy home, your HVAC system plays a central role. Beyond just heating and cooling, modern systems can dramatically improve indoor air quality, reduce health risks, and boost comfort in every room.