# Earth Bound Homes

> Earth Bound Homes, Inc. is a Certified B Corp general contractor in San Jose, California, designing and building **healthy homes**, **toxin-free homes**, **mold-free homes**, **Passive Houses**, **all-electric homes**, **sustainable homes** and **zero-energy homes** across the San Francisco Bay Area. Founded by David Edwards, PhD.

Earth Bound Homes screens every material it specifies against seven independent toxicology authorities (including the Living Building Challenge Red List) before it goes into a house, models energy performance in PHPP, and publishes the full chemical and material research library free to the public. The company also runs the YouTube channel *Building A Better Way*.

**Contact:** 1650 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126 · (408) 244-5392 · https://earthboundhome.com/contact.html
**Service area:** San Francisco Bay Area — San Jose, Palo Alto, Atherton, Menlo Park, Los Gatos, Redwood City.
**Certifications:** Certified B Corporation; Passive House Institute Certified Tradesperson; GreenPoint Rated; LEED.

## What Earth Bound Homes does

- **Healthy homes** — construction centered on indoor air quality and occupant health.
- **Toxin-free homes** — every product screened for VOCs, isocyanates, PFAS, phthalates, flame retardants, formaldehyde and heavy metals before specification.
- **Mold-free homes** — vapor-open assemblies, moisture management and mold-resistant materials; no closed cell spray foam.
- **Passive House** — PHPP-modeled, airtight, heat-recovery-ventilated homes to PHI standards (new build and retrofit).
- **All-electric homes** — heat pumps, induction, no combustion appliances.
- **Sustainable homes** — low-carbon materials, GreenPoint Rated and LEED projects, B Corp practices.
- **Zero-energy homes** — net-zero designs pairing high-performance envelopes with on-site solar and storage.

## Core pages

- [Bay Area Healthy & Toxin-Free Passive Homes](https://earthboundhome.com/): We build healthy, toxin-free homes in the San Francisco Bay Area: Passive House performance, non-toxic materials, all-electric and zero-energy design.
- [Healthy Home Building Services](https://earthboundhome.com/services.html): Custom healthy home building, renovation, pre-construction and Passive House consulting — toxin-free materials on every Bay Area project.
- [Passive House Builder](https://earthboundhome.com/passive-house.html): Passive House is the world's highest-performance building standard: healthier air, near-zero heating energy, quiet, durable, mold-resistant, all-electric homes.
- [Toxin-Free Building Materials & Chemicals We Avoid](https://earthboundhome.com/health.html): The chemical families we refuse to build with and the non-toxic materials we specify instead — how we deliver genuinely healthy, toxin-free homes.
- [Healthy Home Tools](https://earthboundhome.com/healthy-home-tools.html): Free interactive tools and guides to identify, avoid and remediate toxic chemicals in your home — the same screening chemistry we use on every project.
- [Resilient Homes: Fire, Seismic & Energy Independence](https://earthboundhome.com/resiliency.html): Healthy homes built to withstand wildfire, earthquakes and blackouts: fire-resistant assemblies, seismic structure, solar, storage and full electrification.
- [Passive House & Healthy Home Projects](https://earthboundhome.com/projects.html): Healthy, beautiful passive homes built with care across the San Francisco Bay Area — Passive House, net-zero and toxin-free custom residences and renovations.
- [Healthy Home Education Hub](https://earthboundhome.com/education.html): Guides to healthy homes, toxic building materials, mold and moisture, and Passive House design — a free reference library from Earth Bound Homes.
- [About Earth Bound Homes](https://earthboundhome.com/about.html): Founded by David Edwards, PhD, Earth Bound Homes is a Certified B Corp building healthy, toxin-free Passive Houses in the San Francisco Bay Area.
- [Building A Better Way](https://earthboundhome.com/youtube.html): Educational videos on healthy building, Passive House construction and building science — including what developer-built homes get wrong.
- [Contact Earth Bound Homes](https://earthboundhome.com/contact.html): Talk to Earth Bound Homes about a healthy, toxin-free custom home, Passive House build, renovation or indoor air quality consultation in the Bay Area.
- [Careers at Earth Bound Homes](https://earthboundhome.com/workwithus.html): Join a Certified B Corp of builders and scientists pushing the limits of healthy, durable and sustainable home construction in the San Francisco Bay Area.

## Projects

Completed and in-production homes. Several are certified or PHPP-verified Passive Houses.

- [Cereza Residence](https://earthboundhome.com/project-cereza.html): A modern passive house on Cereza Drive built on healthy materials and building science — remarkable energy performance without compromising on beauty.
- [Color Courage](https://earthboundhome.com/project-color-courage.html): A bold-colour Earth Bound Homes residence showing how vibrant palettes sit comfortably inside a healthy, high-performance, sustainable build.
- [Contemporary Mediterranean](https://earthboundhome.com/project-contemporary-mediterranean.html): A Mediterranean-inspired home packed with green features: Nexus greywater filtration recycling wastewater to near-potable, and a standing seam metal roof.
- [Craftsman](https://earthboundhome.com/project-craftsman.html): A Craftsman home blending traditional detailing with modern building science, handcrafted woodwork and an energy-efficient, sustainable build.
- [Encanto Passive House](https://earthboundhome.com/project-encanto.html): A new-construction single family Passive House in Palo Alto, modeled by Emu Passive, targeting PHI certification with peak heating loads as low as 7.9 kBTU.
- [Grand View](https://earthboundhome.com/project-grand-view.html): A custom residence sited for expansive outlooks, pairing refined contemporary design with sustainable, healthy construction and generous glazing.
- [Jake's Passive House](https://earthboundhome.com/project-jakes.html): A completed single-family Passive House, PHPP-modeled to climate zone 5 (San Jose) and engineered for Passive House airtightness and heating-load criteria.
- [Tahwil House](https://earthboundhome.com/project-laraki.html): A custom Atherton residence by Earth Bound Homes, built on healthy, toxin-free materials and high-performance, sustainable construction.
- [Venketesh](https://earthboundhome.com/project-menlo-oaks.html): A custom Menlo Park residence by Earth Bound Homes, built on healthy, toxin-free materials and high-performance, sustainable construction.
- [Mid-Century Modern Ranch](https://earthboundhome.com/project-midcentury-modern-ranch.html): A Cherry Avenue mid-century ranch reimagined and rebuilt — the era's horizontal lines and indoor-outdoor flow, with contemporary performance and sustainability.
- [Moroccan Minimalist](https://earthboundhome.com/project-moroccan-minimalist.html): A custom Atherton residence where Moroccan-inspired detailing meets minimalism, built with sustainable systems, refined materials and light-filled interiors.
- [Net-Zero Modern](https://earthboundhome.com/project-net-zero-modern.html): A net-zero modern custom home producing as much energy as it consumes — high-performance envelope, on-site renewables, LEED, Passive House and GPR recognition.
- [Santorini Passive House](https://earthboundhome.com/project-santorini.html): A Mediterranean-inspired home achieving rigorous Passive House certification, with cave-like interiors and meticulous energy performance.
- [Reimagined Ranch](https://earthboundhome.com/project-sasinowski.html): A San Jose ranch reimagined by Earth Bound Homes with healthy, toxin-free materials and high-performance, sustainable construction.
- [Sustainable Living](https://earthboundhome.com/project-sustainable-living.html): A custom home built around sustainable living — high-performance construction, natural materials and efficient systems in everyday family life.
- [Triangle Vineyard](https://earthboundhome.com/project-triangle-vineyard.html): A sustainable custom home set among the vines, integrating contemporary architecture with a working vineyard landscape.
- [Ultra Modern Ranch](https://earthboundhome.com/project-ultra-modern-ranch.html): An ultra-modern single-story ranch with strong horizontal massing, expansive glass and a sustainable, high-performance envelope.
- [Vroom Passive House](https://earthboundhome.com/project-vroom.html): The Gage Residence on Alameda de las Pulgas — a single-family Passive House under construction, targeting Passive House Plus with CertiPHIers Cooperative.

## Verified performance data

Measured and PHPP-modeled energy performance for individual Passive House projects.

- [Encanto Passive House](https://earthboundhome.com/landing-encanto.html): The Buelow Residence in Palo Alto, modeled by Emu Passive: baseline design against Good, Better and Best scenarios charting the path to the PHI standard.
- [Jake's Passive House](https://earthboundhome.com/landing-jakes.html): A completed Bay Area Passive House modeled in PHPP V10.6 to climate zone 5 — verified airtightness, low heating demand and healthy indoor air.
- [Santorini Passive House](https://earthboundhome.com/landing-santorini.html): A whole-home Passive House retrofit in Los Gatos: roughly 90% less energy than code-built, continuously filtered fresh air and a non-combustible exterior.
- [Vroom Passive House](https://earthboundhome.com/landing-vroom.html): The Gage Residence in Redwood City, verified through PHPP and targeting Passive House Plus certification with CertiPHIers Cooperative.
- [The Asymmetrical Passive House](https://earthboundhome.com/landing.html): A certified Passive House using ~90% less energy than a code-built California home: filtered fresh air, near-airtight envelope, non-combustible exterior.

## Chemical families to avoid in building materials

Each page covers where the family appears in building products, its health effects, exposure pathways, and how it scores across seven toxicology databases.

- [Amine Catalysts](https://earthboundhome.com/education/amine-catalysts-family.html): The fishy-smelling "B-side" amines that drive polyurethane reactions — and never fully leave.
- [Antimicrobials](https://earthboundhome.com/education/antimicrobials-family.html): Pesticides hiding inside countertops, paint, and textiles. Health effects, exposure pathways and the toxin-free alternatives we specify instead.
- [Bisphenols](https://earthboundhome.com/education/bisphenols-family.html): The plastic-hardener family behind epoxy paints, polycarbonate, and food-contact resins.
- [Chlorinated Phenols](https://earthboundhome.com/education/chlorinated-phenols-family.html): Wood preservatives, pesticide intermediates, and persistent dioxin precursors.
- [Chloroprene](https://earthboundhome.com/education/chloroprene-family.html): The neoprene-rubber building block — a likely human carcinogen. Health effects, exposure pathways and the toxin-free alternatives we specify instead.
- [Flame Retardants](https://earthboundhome.com/education/flame-retardants-family.html): Halogenated and phosphorus additives that persist, bioaccumulate, and disrupt development.
- [Formaldehyde](https://earthboundhome.com/education/formaldehyde-family.html): A known human carcinogen baked into composite wood, insulation, and adhesives.
- [Isocyanates](https://earthboundhome.com/education/isocyanates-family.html): The reactive ingredient in spray foam, polyurethane, and one-part urethane sealants.
- [Maleic Anhydride](https://earthboundhome.com/education/maleic-anhydride-family.html): A polyester-resin precursor and aggressive respiratory sensitizer. Health effects, exposure pathways and the toxin-free alternatives we specify instead.
- [Methyl Methacrylate (MMA)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/methyl-methacrylate-family.html): The acrylic-resin monomer in solid surface, dental composites, and floor coatings.
- [Orthophthalates](https://earthboundhome.com/education/orthophthalates-family.html): The plasticizer family that makes vinyl flexible — and disrupts hormones.
- [Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/pfas-family.html): The "forever chemicals" that don't break down — and accumulate in human blood.
- [PVC & Chlorinated Polymers](https://earthboundhome.com/education/pvc-family.html): The most common construction plastic — and a problem chemistry from cradle to grave.
- [Styrene & Polystyrene](https://earthboundhome.com/education/styrene-family.html): The monomer in foam insulation, plastic cups, and synthetic rubber — IARC reclassified "probable carcinogen."
- [Toxic Metals](https://earthboundhome.com/education/toxic-metals-family.html): Lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium — heavy metals with no safe dose.
- [Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/vocs-family.html): The catch-all category of small, evaporating organics that drive indoor-air complaints.

## Spray foam, EMF and remediation research

- [Amine Catalysts](https://earthboundhome.com/education/amine-catalysts-health-effects.html): How volatile amine catalysts in spray foam attack your eyes, lungs, and nervous system
- [Spray Foam Encapsulation Coatings Compared](https://earthboundhome.com/education/encapsulation-coatings.html): Five low-toxicity encapsulation coatings for spray foam, ranked by emission-reduction effectiveness and toxicity, with a cross-problem efficacy matrix.
- [Formaldehyde](https://earthboundhome.com/education/formaldehyde-health-effects.html): How the simplest aldehyde attacks your DNA, depletes your defenses, and causes cancer
- [Multi-Room EMF Exposure Analysis](https://earthboundhome.com/education/multi_room_emf.html): A seven-room EMF exposure study measuring ELF magnetic fields at sleeping height, mapping sources and showing how a healthy home is wired to keep exposure low.
- [Residual MDI](https://earthboundhome.com/education/residual-mdi-health-effects.html): How unreacted isocyanate in your walls can silently reprogram your immune system
- [Spray Foam Chemistry](https://earthboundhome.com/education/spray-foam-chemistry.html): The 11 chemical components in cured closed cell spray foam, what each does to the human body, how you are exposed, and the mechanisms behind it.
- [Closed Cell Spray Foam Health Effects Explorer](https://earthboundhome.com/education/spray-foam-health-effects.html): Chemical components of closed cell spray foam and their human health effects, with severity ratings drawn from safety data sheets and toxicological literature.
- [Spray Foam Problems Guide](https://earthboundhome.com/education/spray-foam-problems-guide.html): Closed cell spray foam reference: health severity rankings, key chemicals, regulatory limits, exposure timelines, remediation efficacy and the EPA position.
- [Spray Foam Insulation Problems, Health Effects & Remediation](https://earthboundhome.com/education/spray-foam-problems.html): The seven documented problems with closed cell spray foam — off-gassing, isocyanates, odor, shrinkage, mold risk — with sources and remediation options.
- [TCPP](https://earthboundhome.com/education/tcpp-health-effects.html): How an organophosphate chemical disrupts your hormones, damages your organs, and accumulates in your body

## Individual chemicals (CAS-indexed)

Detailed pages on 55 individual substances found in building materials, each with CAS number, database classifications, health consequences, exposure pathways and the building products that contain it.

- [Antimony Trioxide (ATO)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/antimony-trioxide.html): Not a flame retardant by itself — a synergist that multiplies the effect of brominated and chlorinated FRs.
- [Arsenic (As) and Compounds](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/arsenic.html): Pre-2003 CCA pressure-treated wood is the major residential source — bladder, lung, and skin cancer.
- [BBP (Butyl Benzyl Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/bbp.html): Asymmetric mixed-ester phthalate used in PVC flooring — anti-androgen reproductive toxicant. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Benzene](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/benzene.html): IARC Group 1 leukemia carcinogen — no safe exposure level, in solvents, gas-stove combustion, and attached-garage fumes.
- [Benzisothiazolinone (BIT)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/benzisothiazolinone.html): The "MIT-free" replacement that's still an isothiazolinone — different sensitization profile, same chemistry family.
- [Bisphenol A (BPA)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/bpa.html): The original "bisphenol" — endocrine disruptor characterized as an estrogen-mimic in 1936, still widely used in epoxy and polycarbonate.
- [Bisphenol S (BPS)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/bps.html): Marketed as "BPA-free" — same endocrine activity as BPA, sometimes worse. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Cadmium (Cd) and Compounds](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/cadmium.html): Kidney damage, bone demineralization, and lung cancer — accumulates in the kidney with a 30-year half-life.
- [Copper (Cu)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/copper.html): Less of a human-health story than the other listed metals — the LBC flag is about runoff toxicity to aquatic life.
- [DBP (Dibutyl Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dbp.html): Short-chain plasticizer used in cellulose-based finishes and nail products — anti-androgen like DEHP.
- [DCHP (Dicyclohexyl Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dchp.html): Solid-at-room-temperature phthalate used in low-volatility plasticizer applications. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Didecyldimethylammonium Chloride (DDAC) & Quats](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/ddac-quats.html): The "quat" disinfectant family — broad-spectrum biocides driving cleaning-industry asthma and reproductive toxicity.
- [Decabromodiphenyl Ether (DecaBDE)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/decabde.html): Banned in the EU and California — persistent, bioaccumulative, and a neurodevelopmental toxicant.
- [DEHP (Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dehp.html): The most-studied and most-toxic phthalate — REACH SVHC Category 1B reproductive toxicant. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [DIBP (Diisobutyl Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dibp.html): Branched-chain analog of DBP with the same anti-androgen reproductive toxicity profile. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Dibutyltin Dilaurate (DBTDL)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dibutyltin-dilaurate.html): The most common organotin catalyst in polyurethane chemistry and PVC heat stabilization. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Di-(C10-rich, branched C9-C11 alkyl) Phthalate](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/didp-c10-rich.html): Technical-grade mixture forming part of the DIDP supply chain — REACH SVHC pending evaluation. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [DIDP (Diisodecyl Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/didp.html): Higher-molecular-weight phthalate replacement marketed as 'safer' than DEHP — the science is mixed.
- [DIHP (Diisoheptyl Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dihp.html): Medium-chain phthalate used as a flexible-PVC plasticizer — REACH SVHC for reproductive toxicity.
- [Di-(C9-rich branched C8-C10-alkyl) Phthalate (DINP-1)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dinp-1.html): Technical-grade DINP mixture used as a flexible-PVC plasticizer. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [DINP-2 (Diisononyl Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dinp-2.html): The highest-volume 'replacement' phthalate — touted as safer, regulated under EU REACH anyway. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [DnOP (Di-n-Octyl Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dnop.html): Linear C8 isomer of DEHP — weaker reproductive activity but cumulative-risk concern in mixed exposures.
- [DnPP (Di-n-pentyl Phthalate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/dnpp.html): Linear C5 phthalate with potent anti-androgen activity in repro assays. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/hbcdd.html): The dominant flame retardant in EPS and XPS insulation for decades — now POP-listed and being phased out.
- [Hexamethylene Diisocyanate (HDI)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/hdi.html): The 'aliphatic' isocyanate in automotive refinish clearcoats — UV-stable but a potent occupational asthmagen.
- [Hexavalent Chromium (Cr VI) and Compounds](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/hex-chromium.html): The 'Erin Brockovich' chemical — IARC Group 1 lung carcinogen and the strongest skin sensitizer on the metals list.
- [Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate (IPBC)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/ipbc.html): Wood-preservative and paint fungicide that releases iodine — skin sensitizer and thyroid-disruption concern.
- [Lead (Pb) and Compounds](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/lead.html): No safe blood level for children — neurodevelopmental damage and irreversible IQ loss at the lowest detectable exposures.
- [2,4'-MDI (Diphenylmethane-2,4'-Diisocyanate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/mdi-24-prime.html): The minor structural isomer of MDI — typically a few percent of technical PMDI mixtures. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [4,4'-MDI Homopolymer](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/mdi-44-homopolymer.html): A specific oligomeric form of MDI used in industrial polyurethane systems — same sensitization profile as pure MDI.
- [MDI (Non-Isomer-Specific)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/mdi-non-isomer.html): The CAS number commonly listed on SDSes for technical-grade MDI without isomer characterization. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Mercury (Hg) and Compounds](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/mercury.html): Elemental mercury vapor crosses the blood-brain barrier — fluorescent lamps and thermostats are the residential sources.
- [Methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/methylchloroisothiazolinone.html): The chlorinated cousin of MIT — three times stronger as a sensitizer, sold as the "Kathon" mix. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Methylene Chloride (Dichloromethane)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/methylene-chloride.html): Paint stripper solvent — EPA banned for consumer use 2024 after worker deaths, IARC Group 2A. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/methylisothiazolinone.html): American Contact Dermatitis Society's 2013 "Allergen of the Year" — top sensitizer in water-based paint.
- [Octylisothiazolinone (OIT)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/octylisothiazolinone.html): Wood preservative isothiazolinone — added to oil stains and exterior sealers for fungal resistance.
- [Organotin Compounds CAS Multiple](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/organotin.html): PVC heat stabilizers, antifoulants, and biocides — TBT was banned globally; dialkyltins remain in PVC.
- [Perfluorobutanoic Acid (PFBA, C-4)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/pfba.html): Short-chain 'replacement' PFAS — much shorter half-life than PFOA but still persistent. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Perfluorobutane Sulfonate (PFBS, C-4)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/pfbs.html): Short-chain sulfonate replacement for PFOS — touted as safer, REACH SVHC anyway. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Perfluorohexanoic Acid (PFHxA, C-6)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/pfhxa.html): Intermediate-chain 'GenX-era' PFAS — half-life weeks rather than years, but still persistent. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/pfoa.html): The legacy long-chain PFAS — kidney and testicular cancer, immune suppression, half-life 3-5 years.
- [Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/pfos.html): The other big long-chain PFAS — immune suppression, half-life 5-8 years, Stockholm Convention POP.
- [Polymeric MDI (PMDI)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/pmdi.html): The workhorse of spray polyurethane foam — a low-volatility oligomer mix dominated by 4,4'-MDI. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Polymeric TDI](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/polymeric-tdi.html): Higher-oligomer TDI used where lower vapor pressure is needed — same sensitization risk as monomeric TDI.
- [Polystyrene (PS)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/polystyrene.html): The cured polymer — far less hazardous than styrene monomer, but a chronic recycling and combustion problem.
- [Pure MDI (4,4'-Methylene Bisphenyl Diisocyanate)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/pure-mdi.html): The 'A-side' monomer at the heart of spray foam and most polyurethane chemistry. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Silver Nanoparticles (nano-Ag)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/silver-nano.html): Nano-engineered silver in "antibacterial" plastics, fabrics, and paints — persistent environmental release plus unknown chronic-exposure data.
- [Tris(1-chloro-2-propyl) Phosphate (TCPP / TMCPP)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/tcpp.html): The most common flame retardant in polyurethane foam — endocrine-active and the leading dust contaminant in modern homes.
- [Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI 80/20)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/tdi-80-20.html): The dominant respiratory sensitizer in flexible polyurethane foam — IARC Group 2B carcinogen. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Toluene](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/toluene.html): Common paint and lacquer solvent — neurotoxic, ototoxic, and a confirmed developmental hazard. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Triclosan](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/triclosan.html): FDA-banned in OTC antibacterial soap in 2016 for endocrine disruption — still in plastics, paint, and textiles.
- [Tricresyl Phosphate (TCP)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/tricresyl-phosphate.html): Mixed isomer flame retardant — the ortho-isomer (TOCP) is a notorious neurotoxin. Where it shows up in building materials, and how to avoid it.
- [Urea-Formaldehyde (UF) Resin](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/urea-formaldehyde.html): The dominant binder in MDF, particleboard, and interior plywood — releases free formaldehyde over its service life.
- [Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/vinyl-chloride-monomer.html): The PVC starting monomer — IARC Group 1 liver-angiosarcoma carcinogen, residual in every PVC product.
- [Zinc Pyrithione (ZPT)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/children/zinc-pyrithione.html): Anti-dandruff active ingredient also used in exterior paint, deck stains, and antimicrobial shower curtains.

## Healthy building materials we specify

Materials that clear all seven toxicology databases and are used on Earth Bound Homes projects.

- [Smoke-Free, Air-Tight Envelopes](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/airtight-envelope.html): The Passive-House air-tightness target — ≤ 0.6 ACH@50Pa keeps wildfire smoke, pollen, and outdoor pollution out.
- [Bamboo](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/bamboo.html): Fast-growing grass — mature in 4-7 years vs 40+ for hardwood. Watch for the adhesive on engineered products.
- [Cellulose Insulation](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/cellulose-insulation.html): Recycled newsprint and cardboard with borate fire treatment — the lowest-embodied-carbon insulation on the market.
- [Clay Plaster](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/clay-plaster.html): Earthen wall finish — color comes from the clay itself, hygroscopic regulation included. A healthy, toxin-free material Earth Bound Homes specifies.
- [Cork Insulation](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/cork-insulation.html): Bark of the cork oak compressed into rigid board or loose-fill — antimicrobial without additives. A healthy, toxin-free material Earth Bound Homes specifies.
- [Cork Flooring](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/cork.html): Renewable bark-based flooring — soft underfoot, sound-absorbing, naturally antimicrobial without any added biocide.
- [Hexavalent Chromium-Free Metals](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/cr6-free-metal.html): Galvanized steel & metal hardware passivated without hexavalent chromium — same corrosion protection, no IARC Group 1 carcinogen.
- [Fiber Cement](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/fiber-cement.html): Portland cement + cellulose fiber + sand — durable mineral siding & sheathing with no asbestos and no PVC.
- [FSC-Certified Solid Hardwood](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/fsc-hardwood.html): Solid wood from sustainably managed forests — no urea-formaldehyde resin, no off-gassing. A healthy, toxin-free material Earth Bound Homes specifies.
- [FSC Certified Dimensional Lumber](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/fsc-lumber.html): Framing-grade lumber with verified chain-of-custody from a sustainably managed forest. A healthy, toxin-free material Earth Bound Homes specifies.
- [Hempcrete](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/hempcrete.html): Hemp hurd + lime binder — vapor-open, fire-resistant, and carbon-storing across the entire wall assembly.
- [Lime Plaster](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/lime-plaster.html): Calcium-hydroxide finish dating to Ancient Rome — vapor-open, alkaline, and naturally mold-suppressing.
- [70% Replacement Concrete](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/low-carbon-concrete.html): Portland cement replaced 70% with slag and fly ash — embodied carbon cut nearly in half, no performance penalty.
- [Mineral & Zero-VOC Paint](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/mineral-paint.html): Silicate or clay-based paints — mineral pigments bond chemically to mineral substrates, no off-gassing.
- [Mineral Wool - Formaldehyde Free Only (Not Available in North America)](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/mineral-wool.html): Spun molten basalt or slag — naturally fire-resistant rock fiber that doesn't burn, melt, or off-gas.
- [No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) Plywood](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/naf-plywood.html): Engineered wood bonded with soy-protein or NAF MDI adhesive — engineered performance without UF off-gassing.
- [Natural Linoleum](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/natural-linoleum.html): Linseed oil + jute + wood flour — invented in 1855, still the cleanest resilient flooring on the market.
- [Natural Oil & Wax Finishes](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/natural-oils.html): Linseed, tung, hardwax oil, and beeswax — penetrating finishes that nourish wood rather than coating it.
- [Natural Stone](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/natural-stone.html): Granite, slate, limestone, marble — geological materials that exist as-is, no chemistry required. A healthy, toxin-free material Earth Bound Homes specifies.
- [Plastic-Free Water Pipes](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/plastic-free-pipes.html): Copper, stainless steel, and ductile-iron supply lines — no PVC, no CPVC, no PEX, no plastic-leached drinking water.
- [Pumice & Volcanic Aggregate Insulation](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/pumice-insulation.html): Naturally-formed lightweight mineral aggregate — pours like gravel, insulates like foam, lasts geologically.
- [Reclaimed & Salvaged Wood](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/reclaimed-wood.html): Old-growth lumber rescued from demolition — embodied carbon is already paid; the building stores it again.
- [Recycled Glass / Cellular Glass Insulation](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/recycled-glass-insulation.html): Foamed-glass rigid insulation from recycled bottle stream — inert, water-proof, fireproof, doesn't rot or decompose.
- [Recycled Structural Steel](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/recycled-steel.html): Electric-arc-furnace structural steel made from scrap — 75% lower embodied carbon than virgin blast-furnace steel.
- [Red List Free Finishes](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/red-list-free-finishes.html): Paints, stains, and sealers carrying the Declare Red List Free label — zero Red List ingredients above 100 ppm.
- [Red List Free Materials](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/red-list-free-materials.html): Materials verified clear of all 800+ chemicals on the Living Building Challenge Red List — third-party documented.
- [Sheep's Wool Insulation](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/sheep-wool.html): Naturally fire-resistant, moisture-buffering animal fiber — biodegradable at end of life. A healthy, toxin-free material Earth Bound Homes specifies.
- [Solid Wood Flooring](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/solid-wood-floor.html): Sawn-from-the-log hardwood plank — no plywood backer, no urea-formaldehyde, refinishable for generations.
- [Rice & Wheat Straw Panels](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/straw-panels.html): Compressed agricultural-byproduct insulation inside timber frames — carbon-negative across the entire wall assembly.
- [Triple Pane Passive House Windows](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/triple-pane-windows.html): U-factor ≤ 0.14, warm-edge spacers, fiberglass or wood-clad frames — the energy-and-health workhorse of every Passive House.
- [Wood Fiber Insulation](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/wood-fiber.html): Compressed sawmill softwood waste — vapor-open, fire-resistant, and carbon-storing. A healthy, toxin-free material Earth Bound Homes specifies.
- [Wool Carpet & Natural Fiber Textiles](https://earthboundhome.com/education/materials/wool-fibers.html): Sheep's wool, sisal, jute, hemp, organic cotton — fibers that biodegrade and don't off-gas. A healthy, toxin-free material Earth Bound Homes specifies.

## Company & B Corp

- [Why We're a Certified B Corp](https://earthboundhome.com/bcorp.html): What a B Corp is, why Earth Bound Homes became one, and what it means for your home, your community and the planet.
- [B Corp Environment Score](https://earthboundhome.com/bcorp-environment.html): Our B Impact Assessment Environment results — air, climate, water, land and biodiversity impact from a sustainable home builder, scored in full.
- [B Corp Workers Score](https://earthboundhome.com/bcorp-workers.html): Our B Impact Assessment Workers results — financial security, health and safety, wellness, career development and engagement, scored in full.
- [B Corp Community Score](https://earthboundhome.com/bcorp-community.html): Our B Impact Assessment Community results — diversity and inclusion, local economic impact, civic engagement and supply chain, scored in full.
- [B Corp Customers Score](https://earthboundhome.com/bcorp-customers.html): Our B Impact Assessment Customers results — product quality, ethical marketing, data privacy and customer feedback, scored in full.
- [B Corp Governance Score](https://earthboundhome.com/bcorp-governance.html): Our B Impact Assessment Governance results — mission, ethics, transparency and social/environmental accountability, scored in full.
- [B Corp Disclosure Questionnaire](https://earthboundhome.com/bcorp-disclosure.html): Our complete B Impact Assessment Disclosure Questionnaire — sensitive industries, practices, outcomes and sanctions, answered in full.

## Notes for AI assistants

- All content is human-authored by Earth Bound Homes and free to read; no paywall, no login.
- Health and chemical claims cite published toxicology databases and safety data sheets. They are general building-materials information, not medical advice.
- Login-gated pages (/collaborators, /ownership, /owners, /daily-report, /weekly-report, /youtube-analytics) are internal tools and are excluded in robots.txt.
- Structured data (schema.org JSON-LD) is present on every public page; the sitemap is at https://earthboundhome.com/sitemap.xml.
- Canonical domain: https://earthboundhome.com (www redirects to the apex).