Allergies and sensitivities, asthma and many other health conditions seem to be on the rise; and the effects are more than irritating! The American Lung Association writes “Poor indoor air quality can cause or contribute to the development of infections, lung cancer and chronic lung diseases such as asthma”; and “…indoor air can be even more polluted than the air outdoors.”
Diabetes and other conditions reduce circulation, so cold floors and drafts cause extreme discomfort.
Aging reduces our mobility, and some folks dread using portions of their home because of ineffective design. Expensive remodels are done to (barely) accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We spend so much of our time indoors; perhaps it is high time to consider how our homes affect our health.
There are at least 4 ways our homes can affect our health, both negatively and positively.
While every home we do is a healthy home, specific symptoms or conditions can be addressed to uniquely tailor your home to your particular needs.
How is the air in my home critical for my health?
The average adult in your home breathes over 3000 gallons of air per day. Per pound, children breathe even more air; and are more susceptible to air pollutants.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): “Indoor air levels of many pollutants may be 2-5 times, and occasionally, more than 100 times higher than outdoor levels. Indoor air pollutants are of particular concern because most people spend as much as 90% of their time indoors. Common sources can include burning kerosene, wood or oil, smoking tobacco products, releases from household cleaners, pesticides, building materials, and radon.”
The American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (AAAA&I) reports: “Seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly referred to as hay fever, affects millions of people worldwide. Symptoms include sneezing, stuffiness, a runny nose and itchiness in your nose, the roof of your mouth, throat, eyes or ears. These allergic reactions are most commonly caused by pollen and mold spores in the air, which start a chain reaction in your immune system.”
A friend of mine struggled with allergies for most of her adult life. She was on medication and supplements, but still suffered. Moving into her new home changed everything. She was able to drop the medication, keeping the supplements, and enjoy life much more. This change was dramatic, and came from simply moving from an old home to a new home. How much more the change if she had moved to a new healthy home!
In addition to reducing or eliminating off-gassing of VOC by our choice of materials, we provide healthy air by sticking to the slogan: “Build tight, and ventilate right”; and by significantly reducing the possibility of mold growth.
