To make a safe and healthy home and boost the well-being of your family members, clean air is important. Indoor air pollutants affect our health, but there are other health risks inside our homes. You and your family may be exposed to things without being aware they are detrimental to your health.
1. Eliminate VOCs for a Safe and Healthy Home
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) may be found in household products we use every day. VOCs have a damaging effect on the health of our families and the safety of our homes.
According to the EPA, VOCs can lead to a range of problems from mild symptoms like eye, nose, and throat irritation and headaches to more critical problems like liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage and cancer. Some common household items that emit VOCs are paints, aerosol sprays, cleaning products, air fresheners, dry cleaned clothing, and pesticides.
For a safer home, choose products with low or no VOCs. If that’s not possible, use products that contain these compounds in a well-ventilated area and safely dispose of any leftover supplies. Always store these products out of reach from children and follow the directions on the label.
2. Dealing With Radon Gas
Radon is a gas that is created when radioactive elements break down in rocks, soil, and water. While radon is present in the air outdoors at low levels, we are most at risk indoors where radon can build up to dangerous levels.
Radon is found in areas throughout the United States and enters homes via cracks in the foundation and through service openings. Because radon causes lung cancer with prolonged exposure, it’s important to be proactive in testing to keep a safe and healthy home.
Test your home for radon when you first purchase it. It’s smart to also test periodically to make sure radon doesn’t become a problem. Radon testing kits are available online or you can find them in some home improvement stores. However, they are not as accurate as the tests professionals perform. To keep a safe and healthy home, hire a professional to test your home for radon.
3. Pests
Rodents, cockroaches, and termites can damage your property, affecting the structure and components that make your home safe. Rodents gnaw electrical wiring and cause damage to insulation. They can also carry and spread Hantavirus and Leptospirosis. Termites will eventually destroy wooden structures, including major supportive elements of your home. If you have a pest infestation, consult an exterminator to make sure the problem is resolved permanently.
Blackbird Home Inspections offers inspection services to customers in Central Arkansas. If you’re buying a home, contact us to request an appointment.