Like lead and asbestos, formaldehyde was long considered an unpleasant but irreplaceable part of the building process. But this known carcinogen finally appears to be on its way out. PureBond Formaldehyde-free Hardwood Plywood is assembled not with urea formaldehyde (UF) glue but with a soy-based adhesive; it’s compliant with LEED standards for low-emitting materials. According to the maker, it’s also significantly more water resistant than standard UF panels — yet costs about the same. Columbia Forest Products, 800/637-1609, columbiaforestproducts.com.