Why Are Hemp Homes Healthier? The Breath of Fresh Air in Modern Living

When you step into a hemp home, one of the first things you might notice is what's missing: the chemical smell that often lingers in newly painted or constructed buildings. My brother's new hemp home was a revelation in this regard—the absence of odour was not just noticeable; it was amazing. But why are hemp homes considered healthier? Here's the lowdown:

Air-Purifying Qualities

Hemp, as a material, contributes to healthier indoor air quality. Here's how:

• Natural Air Filtration: Hempcrete, a bio-composite made from the inner woody core of the hemp plant mixed with a lime-based binder, has unique properties. It's not just a building material; it acts as a natural air purifier. Hemp walls can absorb pollutants and CO2, contributing to cleaner indoor air. Posts on social platforms like X have highlighted hemp's ability to absorb significant amounts of CO2, making it an environmental champion in construction.
• Humidity Regulation: Hempcrete also excels at regulating indoor humidity, reducing the risk of mould and mildew, which are known triggers for respiratory issues. This natural humidity control means less need for artificial dehumidifiers or humidifiers, reducing the presence of mould spores in the air.

Non Toxic Paints Needed

• Non-Toxic Living: Traditional homes often use paints that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. Hemp homes, however, can often forgo these toxic paints:
  
  • Natural Finishes: Hemp walls can be finished with lime washes or natural plasters that are VOC-free. These finishes not only maintain the breathability of hempcrete but also ensure that no additional toxins are introduced into your living space.
  • Odour Absorption: Hemp's natural properties include its ability to absorb odours. This means that even if low-VOC paints are used, any residual smell is quickly neutralised, as noted by various users on platforms like X discussing the lack of smell in hemp constructions.

The Lack of Smell

• Odour-Free Environment: The experience of walking into my brother's hemp home was telling. The typical new-building smell, often a cocktail of paint fumes, adhesives, and other synthetic materials, was conspicuously absent. This is because:
  
  • Hemp Absorbs Odours: Hemp materials can absorb and neutralise odours, providing a fresher indoor environment. This property makes hemp homes particularly appealing for those sensitive to chemical smells or suffering from allergies.
  • Breathable Walls: Unlike conventional materials that trap moisture and odours, hempcrete's breathable nature allows for continuous air exchange, which naturally reduces lingering smells.

A Healthier Choice Overall

Hemp homes represent a shift towards building environments that support health and well-being:

• Thermal Comfort: Hempcrete provides excellent insulation, keeping homes warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing the need for energy-consuming heating or cooling systems which can circulate dust and other allergens.
• Sound Insulation: As mentioned in X posts, hemp walls are soundproof, contributing