Historic homes hold a unique allure – each one a reflection of design, craftsmanship, and aesthetics that have stood the test of time. At Tim Barber Architects (TBA), we cherish the opportunity to revitalize these structures, through restorations, renovations, and additions. 

However, many older homes come with hidden challenges. According to the National Center for Healthy Housing, 40% of U.S. homes contain at least one significant health or safety hazard, putting families at risk for issues like lead poisoning, asthma, carbon monoxide exposure, and even lung cancer. 

It is essential that the spaces we create are not only functional and beautiful but also promote the health of our homeowners and the planet. Ignoring risks such as mold, faulty electrical wiring, and hazardous building materials can create a ripple effect, impacting communities beyond our reach, as noted by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development:

Our studio strives to address these health issues within historic homes while preserving significant details that reflect the original architect’s intent. This month, Construction Administrator Kevin shares insights into a renovation and restoration project in Pasadena, currently under construction. This early 20th-century Arts & Crafts Revival home is undergoing a transformation to preserve its historic features, thoughtfully restore previously renovated spaces, and incorporate modern conveniences and healthy materials for a family who are also sensitive to the side effects from mold, EMFs, and construction materials with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs). 

Kevin explains; “In this project, we’re working with Paula Schofield from Healthy Home Sanctuary to implement a variety of health-focused materials and protocols. My role involves evaluating the alignment of proposed products with our construction process and goals. When adjustments are necessary, Paula, Courtney Construction, TBA, and our homeowners collaborate to ensure the home supports their health.”

“For example, we specified LINE-X waterproofing to be applied to the existing foundations (above), and then installed a French Drain system around the house (below) to help prevent water intrusion into the basement/crawlspace – protecting the home against potential mold and other damage,” explains Kevin. This is standard waterproofing in new homes, but is often missing in older homes. We prioritized the extra work of removing surrounding soil and carefully inserting pipes, drains, and membranes to ensure the basement remains dry and mold-free.

Additionally, Xypex Admixture was added to the new concrete in the crawl space. As it reacts with water, Xypex forms a non-soluble crystalline structure, sealing the concrete and providing a lasting moisture barrier.

Our team also collaborates with Mitch Marchand, an EMF specialist. Our homeowners are sensitive to EMFs (electromagnetic fields), emitted from appliances, electrical wires, cell phones, and more. “Shielding the entire house from EMFs would interfere with cellular and internet signals, so our goal is to minimize EMF exposure in the house and create a few ‘safe’ rooms where EMFs can be blocked,” Kevin notes. This involves strategically using mesh shielding materials in certain walls, floors, and ceilings, a special paint primer around door and window frames, and fiberglass rebar in the concrete foundation – an alternative to metal rebar that helps reduce EMF conductivity.

Kevin’s favorite protection is Lime Prime, an inorganic, zero-VOC coating encapsulating the home’s 1914 framing. After dry ice blasting the original framing to remove any mold, Lime Prime is applied, providing a breathable layer that prevents future mold growth without trapping moisture.

The project also incorporates a range of other healthy and sustainable features:

1. Increased crawl space vents, fans, and dehumidifiers to prevent moisture intrusion from below the house.
2. Magnesium oxide wall boards in basement areas – a breathable material that allows moisture to escape, reducing the risk of mold.
3. Low-profile roof vents for attic ventilation that preserve the aesthetic of the original slate roof.
4. Natural wool insulation, a non-toxic alternative to conventional insulation, enhancing air quality and thermal efficiency.
5. PureBond plywood cabinetry made with soy-based, formaldehyde-free adhesives, promoting cleaner indoor air.
6. EMF-blocking liners in select drapery, allowing the preservation of the original windows.

It’s very rewarding for our team to find solutions that enhance health and comfort while honoring the unique character of these homes. Through collaboration with our consultants and careful product research, we aim to deliver homes where families can live healthfully and timeless buildings can be sustained.

Questions about how you can make your home healthier and safer? Contact us here.