People are increasingly concerned about mold, radon, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in their homes, and for good reason. Studies from the Environmental Protection Agency show that levels of air pollution inside the home are often 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels. And poor indoor air quality can lead to headaches, allergies, respiratory problems such as asthma, eye irritation and other serious health problems.
Those facts become more of a concern to families with children or those considering having them. Children are generally more susceptible to these issues during the developmental stages of life. Here are the leading concerns and ways to avoid them.
Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning (HVAC)
Poorly designed and installed HVAC systems can lead to comfort and air-quality problems. Repairing or improving ductwork, improving filtration and utilizing whole-house and spot ventilation will help to remove indoor pollutants and bring in much needed fresh air. Have your air-handling equipment and ductwork inspected to ensure that they are tight (not leaking or losing energy), clean, free of debris and providing adequate air-flow.
Moisture Control
Moisture problems can lead to mold and other biological pollutants that can negatively impact health and provide much needed water for pest infestations. Get leaks taken care of immediately! Uncontrolled moisture is the source for many indoor air quality issues.
Combustion Venting
Inspections can help protect residents from potential exposure to combustion pollutants by identifying heating equipment that is leaking combustion gases inside the home. Installing carbon monoxide alarms in each sleeping area is always a good idea. Another preventative step is to ensure pollutants are not entering the house from the garage.
Radon Control
Exposure to radon, a naturally occurring radioactive, invisible, and odorless gas, is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Detectors are readily available in most hardware or home improvement stores. Alpha track test kits sell for around $30 and are the most accurate and reliable. Bear in mind that these kits generally need about 90 days of exposure prior to lab analysis.
Pest Management
Residue from pests such as rodents and cockroaches are known to trigger allergy and asthma episodes. A first-line of defense against these problems is to fully seal, caulk or screen likely pest entry points. When these physical barriers are combined with integrated pest management techniques, fewer pesticides may be needed. Pests, like most creatures, need food, water and shelter. So, if you can remove the first two from the equation they may choose the neighbors house instead of yours.
Building Materials
The types of materials that builders choose and the way they manage them during construction can affect a home’s indoor air quality. If builders follow the EPA's Indoor airPLUS specifications, they will reduce sources of pollutants. Actions such as protecting materials stored on-site from weather damage, using materials with reduced chemical content and ventilating homes prior to move-in will help to improve the indoor air quality.
