From Publishers Weekly
Even a healthy homeowner may feel queasy after dipping into this book. Bower, a designer and builder who has written about the environment, states that some people are highly sensitive to household odors, dust, molds and plastics out-gassing, then goes on to warn that the number of such sufferers is increasing. Perhaps, but since Bower presents no hard data, his authority is called into question. And though he offers a long list of technical and scientific references in support of his arguments, at other points the author undermines his credibility, tossing ecological brickbats at many of today's building products, not always with the accuracy expected of a building professional. For example, Bower faults concrete roof tile for its porosity (which encourages mold) and periodic need of repainting (paint chemicals can adversely affect sensitive people), despite the fact that, as most roofers know, much concrete tile sold is permanently color-glazed and non-porous. In a single sentence, Bower dismisses vinyl, the highest-selling siding nationally, as simply "not recommended," with an imperiousness typical and regrettable.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From Library Journal
Most people feel safest at home; little do they know how many environmental dangers lurk in the average house. While some folks are more sensitive to these pollutants than others, there are numerous real hazards in both existing and new construction. Lead paint, arsenic in pressure-treated lumber, and outgassing from synthetic materials are only a few of the more notorious problems. Bower covers the house from top to bottom, explaining potential problems and offering safe solutions. A number of brief sidebars written by various experts elaborate and explain the text. The six most common household pollutants lead, asbestos, radon, mold, combustion byproducts, and volatile organic compounds are are covered in particular detail. A huge list of suppliers (including their web addresses) and a bibliography round out this title. Sure to sound a wake-up call, this title is an essential purchase for public libraries.
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.
