Title: Austin Asthma: Is Your New Construction Making You Sick?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

February 8, 2026

Imagine stepping into your brand new Austin home, the scent of fresh paint and new flooring filling the air. It’s the culmination of a dream, a significant investment, and a fresh start. But what if that “new home smell” is actually a cocktail of invisible toxins slowly impacting your health, especially if you or your family members are prone to asthma?

The reality is, many new construction materials release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and in Austin’s rapidly growing neighborhoods like Mueller and Easton Park, this is a silent threat we need to address head-on.

VOCs are gases emitted from a wide array of products, from paints and adhesives to furniture and flooring. These chemicals can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, cause headaches, nausea, and even damage the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. For individuals with asthma, VOC exposure can trigger attacks, exacerbate symptoms, and lead to long-term respiratory problems.

So, how do you protect yourself and your family from this invisible enemy in your Austin home? Let’s dive into a practical guide.

First, identification is key. You can’t fight what you can’t see, or in this case, smell.

• Start by paying attention to the specific odors in your home. Is there a strong chemical smell emanating from the new carpet? Does the freshly painted wall have an overwhelming odor even after several days?
• Consider purchasing a VOC meter. These devices, available online and at some hardware stores in Austin, measure the concentration of VOCs in the air. While not foolproof, they provide a general indication of air quality.
• Look for certifications on building materials. Products labeled “low-VOC” or “zero-VOC” have been tested and certified to meet specific emission standards.

Now, let’s talk about improving indoor air quality, specifically tailored to Austin’s unique environment.

Austin’s hot and humid climate can exacerbate VOC emissions. Higher temperatures cause materials to off-gas more rapidly, and humidity can trap these compounds indoors.

• Ventilation is your best friend. Open windows and doors regularly, especially during and after renovations. Even a few minutes of ventilation each day can significantly reduce VOC levels.
• Invest in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter and activated carbon filter. The HEPA filter captures particulate matter, while the activated carbon filter absorbs VOCs. Look for air purifiers specifically designed for large spaces, as many Austin homes are open-concept.
• Consider using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove moisture and pollutants. Ensure these fans vent to the outside, not just into the attic.
• Houseplants can help filter the air. Snake plants, spider plants, and peace lilies are known for their ability to remove VOCs.

Austin offers resources to help residents improve indoor air quality.

• The City of Austin’s Office of Sustainability provides information on green building practices and healthy homes. Check their website for workshops and resources.
• Local organizations like the Austin Energy Green Building program offer rebates and incentives for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly home improvements, which often include measures to improve indoor air quality.
• Contact the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for information on air quality regulations and resources.

When renovating or building a new home, choosing low-VOC building materials is crucial. This is where you can make a significant impact on your long-term health.

• Paints: Opt for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints. Many major paint brands offer these options, and they perform just as well as traditional paints.
• Flooring: Consider natural flooring options like bamboo, cork, or solid wood with low-VOC finishes. Avoid vinyl flooring, which can release high levels of VOCs.
• Adhesives and Sealants: Choose low-VOC adhesives and sealants for cabinets, countertops, and other installations.
• Insulation: Opt for fiberglass insulation with low-VOC binders or consider alternative insulation materials like cellulose or mineral wool.
• Cabinets and Furniture: Look for cabinets and furniture made from solid wood or plywood with low-VOC finishes. Avoid particleboard and MDF, which can release formaldehyde.

Texas regulations regarding VOC emissions are evolving. Stay informed about the latest standards and requirements.

• The TCEQ regulates VOC emissions from various sources, including industrial facilities and consumer products.
• Austin has its own green building codes that may require the use of low-VOC materials in new construction and renovations.
• Check with your local building department for specific requirements in your area.

One common mistake developers make is prioritizing cost over health. They may choose cheaper materials that release higher levels of VOCs to save money. As a homeowner, you have the power to demand better.

Another pitfall is neglecting proper ventilation during and after construction. Even with low-VOC materials, adequate ventilation is essential to remove any residual emissions.

A challenge many homeowners face is the lack of transparency regarding VOC content in building materials. Manufacturers are not always required to disclose this information, making it difficult to make informed choices.

To overcome these challenges:

• Ask your builder or contractor to provide documentation on the VOC content of all materials used in your home.
• Research products thoroughly before making a purchase. Look for certifications and reviews.
• Be willing to pay a little more for low-VOC materials. Your health is worth the investment.

Consider the case of a family in Mueller who renovated their kitchen using traditional materials. Within weeks, the mother, who had mild asthma, began experiencing more frequent and severe attacks. After testing the air quality, they discovered high levels of VOCs from the new cabinets and countertops. They replaced these materials with low-VOC alternatives and installed an air purifier, which significantly improved the mother’s health.

This example highlights the importance of being proactive and informed about VOCs in your home.

Don’t let the “new home smell” compromise your health and well-being. By taking these steps, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for yourself and your family in your Austin home. Remember, knowledge is power, and a little effort can go a long way in protecting your respiratory health.