Meritage Homes, the seventh-largest homebuilder in the United States, this week announced a commitment to 100 percent clean air quality in all new construction.
The company is making this industry-first pledge happen by installing MERV-13 filters in all of its homes. Compared to conventional options, MERV-13 filters are designed to remove smaller particles for better filtration of allergens like dust, lint, pollen, mold and even some bacteria and viruses.
With this step, the company will carry the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Indoor airPLUS certification, a labeling program that requires construction and product specifications that reduce exposure to airborne contaminants.
“Given today’s environment, we understand that our consumers are looking for ways to keep their homes safer and healthier. The adoption of the latest in air filtration technology enables Meritage Homes to meet and exceed buyers’ expectations and deliver on our promise to set new building standards and raise the bar across the industry,” said Phillippe Lord, COO of Meritage Homes.
In addition to making the MERV-13 filtration system standard, Meritage will continue its healthy building practices including using low VOC paints, spray foam insulation and sealed insulated ducts. Meritage projects also feature ENERGY STAR certified appliances and low-E windows for UV ray protection.
CEO Steve Hilton said he is proud of the company’s recent milestones.
“Over the last decade, Meritage Homes has set the standard for energy-efficient home building and demonstrated a deep commitment to welcoming families into a new home that supports better health,” he said.
