Healthy Home Basics - Windows, Siding, and Roofing

40. Aren’t wood windows best from a health standpoint?

Wood windows are usually treated with water-repellent and fungicidal chemicals. So, while wood is a natural material, treated windows can certainly bother some sensitive people. Also, they’re usually made of pine which can have a strong natural odor. Furthermore, wood windows require routine painting. However, wood windows usually aren’t strong outgassing sources. Therefore, these concerns are only important for very sensitive people.

Vinyl windows are a less-expensive option. While they never need painting (a real plus), the vinyl itself can outgas a little—especially when new—which can be enough to bother some sensitive individuals.

Personally, we prefer aluminum-framed windows. Most are available prefinished in white or brown, and they require little maintenance. In cold climates, you should look for frames with thermal-breaks to minimize sweating. Aluminum windows generally have rubber or plastic seals that have a slight odor—but it usually isn’t significant.

Multiple panes of glass are a good idea in harsh climates for energy efficiency. Low-E coatings and argon-filled windows rarely cause health problems, and we think they’re important to conserve energy.

41. Is there a healthy window putty I can use?

In the past, window putty used to be made with linseed oil and other ingredients, but today vinyl compounds are more common. Either can be odorous when fresh, but because the putty is applied to the exterior of a window, it’s outside the living space , so it’s usually not a serious problem. The putty tends to be less bothersome after aging for a while, or after being painted. We aren’t aware of one brand that’s less odorous than others.

42. Are there any healthy caulkings and construction adhesives?

All caulkings and adhesives have an odor when wet, but once cured, they tend to outgas very little. The goal is to select a long-lasting product (so you won’t have to reapply it very often), and one that will outgas most of its odor within a short period.

Most water-based latex caulks are good choices because they outgas less than other types of caulking. Personally, we’ve had good luck with 100%-silicone caulking for most outdoor applications. It’s reasonably priced, durable, and very long lasting. It does have a strong odor when fresh, but once it’s had about a week or so to air out, it’s quite inert. Silicone’s a little messy to work with because it can’t be cleaned up with water , and while it can’t be painted, it’s usually available in some basic colors.

For a healthy construction adhesive, several companies now make water-based products, and some offer zer...