Strategies for Optimizing the Use of Healthier Materials in Affordable Housing

When it comes to optimizing the building envelope, efforts to minimize chemical hazards can appear to be at odds with energy efficiency goals, but they need not be. This session will focus on the technology that we rely on for insulation. We will discuss how the chemicals found in common insulation products impact the health of installation teams and building occupants, as well as that of nearby communities and workers throughout their lifecycle (manufacture, use, and end of life).

We will also provide real-world examples on how to optimize the building envelope while taking this guidance into consideration, even when faced with air barrier requirements and space limitations that can be obstacles to selecting healthier materials. Examples will include assemblies from both single family/duplex and multifamily affordable housing projects meeting both ZERH and PHIUS+ level performance. We will also introduce the International Living Future Institute’s healthy materials and affordable housing programs. We will share resources for selecting and specifying healthier products, and discuss how the various resources can be used together to meet multiple health and sustainability goals and/or help achieve various green building certifications. Success stories from several affordable housing projects will be included.