Healthy Home

On average, Americans spend 90% of their time indoors, yet the air in a new home can be ten times more polluted than outdoor air, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Children are particularly vulnerable when it comes to air pollution.

If you live in a wood-frame home, the risk of unseen mold and mildew, along with the penetration of outside pollutants and pollen, are affecting the air in which you live and breathe. This compromised quality of air in your house will adversely affect allergies and respiratory ailments. An ICF home is an alternative. Since the exterior walls are made of concrete, they are solid, reducing the infiltration of outside air and worries about mold are eliminated. An ICF home with fresh air exchangers and electrostatic air filters can result in the best possible living environment for respiratory allergy sufferers.

Ventilation is key to keeping and maintaining indoor air quality for healthier living. Better building practices encourage:

• Well-sealed duct systems
• Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans
• Sealed combustion gas appliances
• A ventilation system

Another common source of indoor air pollution is the off-gassing of chemicals found in many building materials:

• Avoid cabinets and furniture that are made from pressed wood products such as MDF, which are typically manufactured with formaldehyde-based adhesives. This formaldehyde can off-gas into your home for years. Some paint and floor finishes can also contain formaldehyde.
• For flooring, choose wood, natural linoleum or tile. Vinyl is very toxic. It will off-gas for months after installation and presents a serious health risk in the case of fire-more than the fire itself. Carpet harbors dirt, dust and mold, just to name a few contaminants.
• For maintaining and cleaning your healthy home, choose non-toxic cleaning products. Look for low-toxic or citrus-based products and consider cheaper, benign options like vinegar, baking soda and borax, for example.