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Posts tagged Passive Home in Bay Area
Where Healthy Homes Begin: The Crawlspace!

Where Healthy Homes Begin: The Crawlspace!
It might be out of sight—but it should never be out of mind.

You can’t build a truly healthy home without first addressing the environment it sits on. At Earth Bound Homes, we start with the crawlspace—not as an afterthought, but as the foundation of wellness, durability, and smart design.

Take the Asymmetric House as a model: here, the crawlspace isn’t just a hollow space under the floor—it’s a sealed, insulated, and conditioned zone that plays a critical role in the home's overall performance and health.

Why Does the Crawlspace Matter?

The conditions beneath your home directly impact air quality, energy efficiency, and long-term maintenance. An untreated or vented crawlspace can introduce:

  • Radon and other soil gases

  • Mold from moisture intrusion

  • Pests like rats, insects, and termites

  • Energy loss through uninsulated floors

A conditioned crawlspace, like the one at the Asymmetric House, solves these problems. It’s designed to:

Block radon and soil gases from entering your living space
Keep out pests and moisture, which can cause structural damage

Protect indoor air quality—because up to 50% of the air in your home can originate from the crawlspace
Provide easy access to plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems for repairs and upgrades
Stay clean, dry, and functional for the life of the home

Why Not Build on a Slab?

Slab foundations may seem simple and economical at first glance, but they can create major limitations down the road. When systems like plumbing or electrical fail or need to be upgraded, you’re forced to:

🔨 Cut into concrete
💸 Add cost and complexity
🌫️ Disrupt your home with dust and debris

In contrast, a properly built crawlspace offers flexibility, cost savings over time, and a healthier indoor environment—without compromising performance.

The Smart Foundation for a Better Future

What’s truly remarkable is that building a conditioned crawlspace doesn’t require high-tech systems or massive budgets—it simply takes care, thoughtfulness, and a commitment to doing things right from the start.

At Earth Bound Homes, we believe health starts from the ground up. That’s why every detail—especially the invisible ones—are designed with your family’s well-being in mind.

🏡 Build smarter. Live healthier. Start with the crawlspace.

 
Skip Trowel, Level 5, Old World… What??? Understanding Sheetrock Wall Textures!
 
 
 
 

Have you ever wondered why wall textures have such peculiar names? More importantly, do you know what each of them means and how to choose the right one for your home? Or if you need different textures for each room? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.

Wall textures aren’t just about aesthetics—they play a significant role in the functionality and feel of your home. Knowing the differences between textures can help you make informed decisions during your building or remodeling projects.

Firstly, why do we have such unique names for wall textures? These names often derive from the techniques used to create them or their historical origins. For instance, "Skip Trowel" refers to a method where a trowel skips across the surface, creating a distinctive pattern, while "Old World" evokes a sense of rustic, European charm.

So, what does each texture mean, and how do you decide which one to use? Here’s a quick guide:

  • Skip Trowel: This texture adds a touch of elegance and hides minor imperfections, making it great for living rooms and bedrooms.

  • Level 5 Finish: This is the smoothest and most premium finish, ideal for spaces with lots of natural light where you want to avoid any imperfections being highlighted.

  • Old World: This texture brings a timeless, classic look, perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in any room.

When choosing textures, consider factors like ease of cleaning, durability, cost, and how well they hide damage. For example:

  • Ease of Cleaning: Smooth textures like Level 5 are easier to clean but may show dirt and smudges more readily.

  • Durability: Rougher textures like Skip Trowel can be more durable and better at hiding wear and tear.

  • Cost: Generally, the smoother and more intricate the texture, the higher the cost.

  • Damage Visibility: Some textures, like Orange Peel, can help camouflage minor dents and scratches.

Stay tuned as we break down the most popular drywall textures, helping you understand their characteristics and the best applications for each. Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling, this guide will ensure you make the best choices for your walls.