Interest in "homes built with natural materials" such as log houses and solid wood homes is growing. They were once considered housing for only a select few, but the rise of DIY and renovation has made natural materials easier to obtain and a more accessible option. This article explains the benefits and defining features of living in a home built with natural materials.
What is a home built with natural materials?
A home built with natural materials is a house that uses materials sourced from nature, such as wood, plaster, diatomaceous earth, and stone, for its interior and exterior finishes. Its defining feature is that chemically manufactured building materials, such as vinyl wall coverings, plywood, and adhesives, are kept to a minimum so the natural texture, aroma, and performance of the materials themselves can be used to full effect. In recent years, the distribution of natural materials for DIY and renovation has expanded, making them easier for ordinary households to incorporate.
Three benefits of living in a home built with natural materials
1. Comfort that helps you feel at ease
The distinctive aroma, grain, and texture of natural materials create a sense of vitality that synthetic materials cannot provide. The scent of wood is known for its mentally calming effect (phytoncides), helping create a living environment where simply being at home feels restorative.
2. A healthier living environment
Chemical building materials such as synthetic adhesives and vinyl chloride can contribute to allergies and household dust problems. Natural materials release fewer chemical substances and are also less likely to attract dust through static electricity, which can help reduce the risk of sick house syndrome and allergic conditions. They are particularly well suited to households with small children who frequently come into contact with floors and walls.
3. High durability for long-term living
Unlike synthetic building materials, which lose strength as adhesives deteriorate, homes built with natural materials retain the inherent strength of the materials over a long period. With proper maintenance, they can offer durability that supports living there for more than 100 years and may become homes that can be used across three generations. Over the long term, they can also help reduce rebuilding costs.
Maintenance and points to note for homes built with natural materials
Natural materials can be appreciated for the way they age over time, but they do require proper maintenance. Solid wood flooring needs periodic oil treatment, and plaster or diatomaceous earth walls need repair when they become stained. In addition, some materials are highly absorbent, so humidity control is also important.
Related reading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Is a home built with natural materials expensive?
A. If you incorporate natural materials only in selected areas, the cost does not change dramatically. Installation costs for solid wood flooring and plaster walls are generally higher than those for synthetic building materials, but over the long term, their durability and lower maintenance costs can offer sound economic value.
Q. Can natural materials be partially incorporated into an existing home?
A. Yes. Partial adoption is possible through remodeling or renovation. You might change the flooring to solid wood or refinish the walls with plaster or diatomaceous earth. A practical approach is to start with areas where the difference will be easiest to feel in daily life.
Q. Are homes built with natural materials really beneficial for children with allergies?
A. Results vary by individual, but because these materials emit fewer chemical substances and attract less dust through static electricity, they can help reduce factors associated with allergies and sick house syndrome. We also recommend consulting a medical specialist.
Q. How long does a home built with natural materials last?
A. With proper design, construction, and maintenance, examples with durability exceeding 100 years are not uncommon. Traditional Japanese homes, temples, and shrines that have remained standing for several centuries provide clear evidence of that durability.
