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Building a Healthy Home
Americans
spend an average of 65% of their time at home, usually thought of
as a safe place. However, many studies suggest that some homes may
be harmful to the health of the people who live there, especially
those with allergies, asthma, chemical sensitivities or other lung
problems.
If you
want to maintain, remodel or build a home that is healthier, the
first step is to find where the problems are, or can be.
If
you want to make a home that you currently live in healthier:
- Eliminating
sources of indoor pollutants is the key to creating a
healthier environment. Common pollutants include: carbon
monoxide, formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
radon, biological contaminants such as mold, bacteria, dust
mites, pet dander and pollens, and environmental tobacco smoke
(secondhand smoke).
If
you are remodeling or renovating a home:
- This
may be a good time to look at better control of and improved
moisture and humidity; ventilation and air filtration, use of
non-toxic materials to ensure a healthier home environment.
If you are building a
home:
- You
may want to talk to your builder about incorporating certain
building standards, construction techniques, and products that
will make your home healthier. Advantages to building in this
way include:
- Improved
air quality, providing a more comfortable and healthier
living environment
- A
home that is less toxic, and environmentally “green”
- Greater
durability, energy and resource efficient
- A
better performing home needing less maintenance
- A
home that will increase its value over time
Typically,
building a healthier home includes:
- Foundation
waterproofing and moisture control
- An
insulated basement, walls and slab floor
- Advanced
insulation techniques and air tightness
- Energy
efficient, high performance windows
- Energy
efficient and sealed combustion appliances
- High
efficiency air filtration and ventilation
- Humidity
control
- Carefully
selected interior finishings that are far less toxic
- Radon
control
Will it
cost more to build your home using these standards?
- While
building a healthier home may cost 5-8% more than traditional
construction methods, it can actually save you money through
a 30-40% reduction in your utility bills, preventing sickness,
and be far more comfortable.
If
you would like to learn more about building a home using these
proven healthy methods, click
here
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