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LaHouse is a display of high-performance building practices to create more sustainable, resilient and healthy homes in the gulf region. The research-based facility is located on LSU's Baton Rouge campus and displays home-building techniques and solutions for Louisiana's unique climate. LaHouse is open weekdays from 10 am to 4:30 p.m. for self-guided tours or can be toured completely virtually.
Experience the Lahouse via virtual tour
Quarts acrylic countertops are a lower end option for countertops that resistant to heat, moisture, and stains. They are also antimicrobial and very easy to clean.
Armored laminate countertops are popular because they come in various colors and designs. Many are designed to look like higher end granite or marble without the high price. They are perfect for the kitchen because they are damage resistant and require no specialized cleaning products to maintain.
Unlike traditional paint, Low VOC paint gives off less volatile organic compounds. Most have less than 50 grams of VOCs per liter. No VOC paint is less common but also an option when deciding which type of paint to use.
Paperless drywall is a more durable option as it resists warping, water absorption, and delamination. This prevents moisture damage like mold, which is difficult to remove and can negatively impact your health.
Recycled glass tile is very durable and resistant to water damage, making it perfect for a backsplash. It is also more sustainable as it diverts used glass from landfills. Because glass is often recycled by melting into a mosaic pattern, almost all recycled glass has a unique pattern rather than a perfectly uniform manufactured pattern.
These cabinets are made of local hickory and pecan. Wooden cabinets are typically more expensive than laminate cabinets, but they last much longer and are much lighter than laminate cabinets, requiring less bracing while installing.
Wooden shelves in cabinets are much more durable than laminate shelving and can support more weight with less bracing.
If you opt to install wood cabinets, it’s essential to follow proper cleaning instructions and use specialized products for wood when cleaning the cabinets. Certain products can deteriorate and damage the wood and should be avoided.
Linoleum flooring combines many renewable and natural materials, most commonly linseed oil, jute, cork, and tree resin. It is more durable, scratch resistant, and easier to clean than traditional vinyl flooring and is available in many colors and patterns.
In addition to being more sustainable, linoleum flooring is a healthier option as it does not emit any VOCs, which have damaging health effects.
While linoleum flooring has many benefits, it must be properly taken care of to last. Linoleum is prone to darken or yellow if exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. In the event of a flood, standing water may significantly damage certain brands of linoleum flooring.
