Home Remodeling – How to Improve Air Quality in Your Home

There are some that would have you believe that every dust particle in your house is deadly. Obviously, though, people have never lived longer than they do today. There are, however, some things you should keep in mind when doing remodeling projects. Here are tips to deal with them.

With the way some newer homes are sealed up, it's easier for harmful gases to accumulate and possibly cause health problems for you and your family. Radon is probable the most common of these.

Radon gas occurs as a result of the natural decay of uranium, which can be found in many types of rocks and soils. There is much evidence supporting the argument that high levels of radon is potentially harmful. However, small amounts can actually be a good thing.

There are affordable radon detectors available online. Closed in areas, especially basements, are the most common areas for radon buildup. If the levels are too high, you should contact a professional for assistance. You should take corrective measures if the level is four picocuries or more, according to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).

Proper ventilation in the basement can prevent radon gas from reaching a dangerous level. If levels remain high for an extended period of time, they can be dangerous, but limited exposure should not be harmful.

Two gases that represent a potentially worse danger are nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide. Incorrectly installed and poorly ventilated appliances can allow these gases to reach dangerous levels. Examples of these are wood stoves, and gas dryers and water heaters.

When installing these items, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. All connections should be tight and the ducts should be clean. There are also devices designed to measure the levels of these gases.

In addition to gas, there are many other potentially dangerous pollutants in the home, such as dust.

A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter can reduce the amount of dust in the home. Certain home remodeling projects will create excess amounts of dust. Extra vacuuming during these times is necessary to keep the dust from reaching a harmful level.

The waste products of dust mites are one of the leading causes of allergic reactions. There are, however, ways to minimize these effects on you and your family.

Dust on carpets and curtains is a common place to find dust mites living. When these items are being installed new, they will obviously have less dust on them. Tearing out the old stuff, however, will send much dust flying through the air.

Increased vacuuming will, again , help to alleviate the problem, as well as washing curtains, bedspreads and sheets. There are also sprays available that are designed to kill dust mites and prevent them from reproducing. You can also reduce the effects of dust mites and other harmful particles with an air filtration system.

Mold and mildew are two more potentially dangerous organisms found in most homes. Mold spores can be released into the air by removing and replacing ductwork.

Periodic filter changes, as well as occasionally vacuuming your heating and air conditioning ducts will reduce the possible health risks to your family.

By following some of these simple steps, you can improve the air quality in your home and keep your family safe and healthy. Especially during times of home remodeling.

         

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