A home renovation project can transform your living space, adding value and improving functionality. However, the process often involves dust, chemicals, and other pollutants that can compromise indoor air quality and pose health risks. It's essential to prioritize clean indoor air during a renovation to ensure a healthy living environment. In this article, we will explore effective strategies and tips to maintain clean indoor air throughout the renovation process, allowing you to breathe easy and enjoy the benefits of your home upgrade.
Common pollutants that occur during home renovation
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Volatile organic compounds, commonly known as VOCs, are emitted from certain construction materials such as paints, adhesives, and solvents. These chemicals can remain in the indoor air, leading to respiratory issues, headaches, and eye irritation. Moreover, VOCs can react with other pollutants in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of ground-level ozone and smog. Fortunately, there are low VOC and non-toxic paints available in the market, albeit at a slightly higher price, which are worth considering to avoid inhaling these harmful chemicals.
Particulate matter (PM)
During home renovation activities, particulate matter, or PM, becomes one of the most visible pollutants. It is generated when sanding, cutting, demolishing, or even during the process of cleaning out old items. Fine particles can become airborne and penetrate deep into the lungs, potentially causing or worsening respiratory problems. Renovation dust may contain hazardous substances like lead or asbestos, particularly in older homes. Inhaling these particles can result in severe health issues, including respiratory diseases and neurological damage.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde, a colorless gas with a distinctive odor, is often released from certain building materials such as pressed wood products, insulation, and glues. Exposure to formaldehyde can lead to irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and prolonged exposure has been associated with respiratory and allergic reactions. Ensuring adequate ventilation during and after renovation activities is crucial to minimizing formaldehyde levels.
Mold
The discovery of mold during a renovation project may necessitate additional remediation efforts. When conducting renovations, it is important to inspect areas where moisture may accumulate, such as under sinks, near washing machines, on windowsills, ceilings, and in basements. Proper ventilation should be provided when removing mold, and it is worth considering the installation of windows, dehumidifiers, fans, or other ventilation measures in areas prone to mold growth. Additionally, using an air purifier that specifically targets airborne mold spores can help reduce their spread.
How to mitigate home renovation pollutants
Ensure your safety by using a respirator
Respirators act as a protective shield, guarding against the inhalation of dangerous particles and fumes. Whether engaged in activities like sanding, painting, or handling materials that emit airborne contaminants, a properly fitted respirator can safeguard your respiratory system. Selecting a respirator tailored to the particular pollutants produced during renovation is essential for ensuring maximum safety.
Prioritize ventilation without compromise.
A crucial approach to mitigating pollutants during home renovation involves implementing proper ventilation. Effective ventilation serves to disperse and eliminate indoor pollutants, mitigating the risk of health issues stemming from their accumulation. Enhancing indoor air quality during renovations can be achieved by opening windows and doors, utilizing exhaust fans, and ensuring a continuous influx of fresh outdoor air. To ensure optimal ventilation, it is essential to verify that the exhaust fan is appropriately ducted to the outdoors and free from any cracks or tears. Additionally, establishing a negative air pressure environment, achieved by using fans to expel air from the renovation zone, plays a key role in preventing the dissemination of pollutants to other areas of the home.
Improve the quality of the air you breathe
Air purifiers offer a convenient solution to mitigate pollutants resulting from home renovations. Utilizing high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, these devices can effectively capture small particles such as dust, pollen, and other contaminants produced during construction activities. Air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters are also beneficial in absorbing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by paints, adhesives, and other materials. Placing Lifubide air purifiers strategically in the renovation area and throughout the home ensures occupants enjoy cleaner and healthier indoor air both during and after the renovation process.