OREP 023 | How to Build a Healthy Home: Expert Tips, Best Products & Biggest Mistakes with Bo Stephens
In this insightful two-part episode, we continue our conversation with Bo on what it truly takes to build a healthy home from the ground up. This episode is a follow-up to our previous discussion on why a healthier home matters and the impact of environmental factors like dirty electricity, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and air quality on human health. If you haven’t yet, make sure to check out our previous episode where we laid the foundation for this discussion!
Today, we focus on the step-by-step process of constructing a healthy home, including key decisions, material choices, and cost-effective solutions that make a major difference. Whether you’re a real estate investor, developer, or a homeowner, you’ll learn practical ways to build a home that enhances well-being while maintaining affordability. projects to health-conscious buyers.
Key Topics Covered
1. Recap of the First Episode
Why building a healthy home matters
The hidden dangers in traditional home construction (VOCs, mold, EMFs, etc.)
How real estate professionals can differentiate themselves by marketing health-conscious homes
2. Understanding the Homebuilding Process with Health in Mind
Step 1: Foundation Choices
The impact of foundation type on air quality and mold prevention
Issues with pesticide-treated soil and safer alternatives like borate treatment
Why raised foundations improve airflow and prevent moisture buildup
Step 2: Subfloor and Framing
The dangers of toxic subfloor treatments (copper sulfate vs. borate-treated lumber)
Choosing the right plywood (phenol formaldehyde vs. urea formaldehyde)
How subfloor material affects long-term air quality in the home
Step 3: Windows and Ventilation
How window design impacts natural airflow and home temperature
Best window types for humid or high-moisture areas
Reducing reliance on air conditioning through strategic ventilation
3. The Hidden Costs and Savings of Healthy Homebuilding
Common myths: “Building a healthy home is too expensive”
Real-world cost breakdown: Adding non-toxic materials to a $1.6M home costs only $15K–$20K
Long-term savings through better air quality, fewer health risks, and higher resale value
4. Electricity and EMF Exposure in the Home
The problem with standard wiring (Romex and vinyl-sleeved cables)
The impact of dirty electricity on sleep and overall health
Why commercial buildings use metal-clad cables and why homeowners should consider them
Simple and affordable upgrades to minimize EMF exposure
5. Water Filtration and Plumbing Choices
The risks of chloramine and ammonia in municipal water supplies
Why whole-house water filtration is crucial for bathing and drinking water
Innovative water filtration systems that prevent mold and bacteria growth
PEX vs. copper piping: Which is better for health and durability?
6. Insulation Choices for a Healthier Home
Comparing fiberglass vs. Rockwool vs. wool insulation
How Rockwool insulation prevents mold and condensation issues
The cost-benefit analysis of upgrading insulation materials
7. Exterior Materials and Breathability
Why certain siding materials (brick, rock, wood) promote better airflow
The importance of breathable house wraps like Tyvek
Long-term benefits of Hardy board and magnesium oxide panels
8. Interior Wallboard Options
Why standard drywall can contribute to mold and toxicity
The advantages of magnesium oxide board over traditional drywall
Using fiberglass-backed drywall in wet areas to prevent mold growth
9. Flooring Considerations
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) vs. wood vs. tile flooring
Why choosing the right flooring material for your climate matters
How low-VOC flooring options improve indoor air quality
10. Paints, Stains, and Finishing Touches
Understanding zero-VOC paints and why some still contain toxins
The best brands for non-toxic, health-conscious painting
How to choose safe stains and sealers for wood flooring and trim
11. HVAC and Ventilation Strategies
Why standard HVAC systems contribute to indoor air pollution
The benefits of radiant heating for a healthier home
How to improve airflow and ventilation to maintain a mold-free environment
Who is Bo Stephens?
Bo Stephens is the Founder and a Healthy Home Developer at SCG Healthy Building. He is introduced as an environmental engineer with extensive experience in health and safety consulting. Bo specializes in identifying and mitigating hidden health hazards in homes, such as electromagnetic fields (EMFs), mold, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). He provides practical advice and advanced solutions to help individuals create healthier living environments. His expertise and insights are central to the discussion, offering viewers actionable steps to improve their home's safety and air quality.
You can learn more about SCG Healthy Building and its services here: www.scghealthybuilding.com