Houston Homes: "Green" Cement, Hidden Asthma?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

August 1, 2025

Imagine stepping into your newly renovated Houston home, excited for a fresh start. But what if that “fresh” smell is actually a silent threat to your health, especially if you or your family members suffer from asthma? The culprit might be hiding in plain sight: “green” cement. While marketed as eco-friendly, some formulations can release harmful substances that trigger asthma. This is a particularly relevant concern in Houston, given our hot and humid climate, which can exacerbate the off-gassing of these compounds.

“Green” cement, often incorporating recycled materials or alternative binding agents, is increasingly used in construction across Houston. While the intention is laudable – reducing the carbon footprint of construction – the reality can be more complex. Some of these cements, particularly those with high levels of industrial byproducts, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and fine particulate matter into the air.

VOCs are gases emitted from solids or liquids, and many are known asthma triggers. Common VOCs found in building materials include formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. Particulate matter, especially PM2.5 (particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter), can penetrate deep into the lungs and trigger inflammation, leading to asthma attacks.

So, how can Houston homeowners protect themselves? The first step is awareness. If you’ve recently had construction or renovation work done, especially if it involved concrete or cement, be vigilant for signs of poor air quality. These signs include:

• A persistent chemical odor, even after airing out the space.
• Increased asthma symptoms, such as wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath.
• Eye, nose, or throat irritation.
• Headaches or dizziness.

If you suspect a problem, air quality testing is crucial. Several companies in the Houston area specialize in indoor air quality assessments. Look for companies that test for a wide range of VOCs and particulate matter, specifically PM2.5 and PM10. A reputable company will provide a detailed report outlining the levels of different pollutants and comparing them to established safety standards.

Consider companies like SanAir Technologies Laboratory (although based outside Houston, they serve the area) or local environmental consultants who can conduct thorough testing. Expect to pay several hundred dollars for a comprehensive assessment, but it’s a worthwhile investment in your family’s health.

Proper ventilation is your next line of defense. Houston’s climate presents a unique challenge. While opening windows is ideal for ventilation, the high humidity can lead to mold growth. The key is to ventilate strategically.

• Open windows during the cooler parts of the day, typically early morning or late evening.
• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove moisture and pollutants.
• Consider a whole-house ventilation system with heat recovery ventilation (HRV) or energy recovery ventilation (ERV). These systems bring in fresh air while minimizing energy loss.

Air filtration is another essential tool. A high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can remove particulate matter, including PM2.5, from the air. Look for air purifiers with HEPA filters that are sized appropriately for the room.

Activated carbon filters can remove VOCs, but they need to be replaced regularly. Consider a combination filter that includes both HEPA and activated carbon. Brands like Blueair, Dyson, and Coway are readily available in Houston and offer models suitable for different room sizes and budgets.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: which neighborhoods or construction companies are more likely to be using potentially problematic “green” cement? This is a difficult question to answer definitively, as there’s no publicly available database tracking cement types used in specific projects. However, we can make some educated guesses.

• New developments: Areas experiencing rapid construction, such as the Woodlands, Katy, and certain parts of downtown Houston, are more likely to be using newer building materials, including “green” cement.
• LEED-certified buildings: Buildings aiming for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification often prioritize sustainable materials, which may include “green” cement. While LEED certification is a positive thing overall, it’s worth investigating the specific materials used.
• Large-scale projects: Major infrastructure projects and commercial developments are often under pressure to meet sustainability goals, potentially leading to the use of “green” cement.

As for construction companies, it’s challenging to single out specific firms. However, you can ask your builder or contractor about the type of cement they’re using and request information about its VOC emissions. Reputable companies should be transparent about their materials and willing to provide safety data sheets (SDS).

Common mistakes developers make include:

• Failing to properly cure the cement, which can increase VOC emissions.
• Using “green” cement in poorly ventilated areas.
• Not informing homeowners about the potential risks associated with the cement.

To overcome these challenges, homeowners should:

• Insist on proper ventilation during and after construction.
• Request information about the cement used and its VOC emissions.
• Consider independent air quality testing after construction is complete.

Let’s consider a hypothetical case study. A family in the Heights neighborhood of Houston recently renovated their kitchen, including installing new concrete countertops made with “green” cement. Shortly after the renovation, the mother, who has mild asthma, began experiencing more frequent asthma attacks. An air quality test revealed elevated levels of formaldehyde and other VOCs. The family installed a HEPA filter with an activated carbon filter in the kitchen and increased ventilation by opening windows during the cooler hours of the day. Within a few weeks, the mother’s asthma symptoms improved significantly.

This example highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive measures. Don’t assume that “green” automatically means “safe.” Do your research, ask questions, and take steps to protect your indoor air quality.

Finally, remember that asthma triggers are complex and varied. While “green” cement can be a contributing factor, it’s essential to address other potential triggers, such as dust mites, mold, pet dander, and pollen. Regular cleaning, proper humidity control, and allergen-proof bedding can all help to reduce asthma symptoms.

In conclusion, while “green” cement offers environmental benefits, Houston homeowners need to be aware of the potential risks associated with VOC off-gassing and particulate matter. By taking proactive steps like air quality testing, proper ventilation, and air filtration, you can create a healthier and safer indoor environment for yourself and your family. Don’t let the promise of sustainability compromise your health.