We spend much of our lives indoors. Is the air you’re breathing in at home clean and safe? Here’s the lowdown on indoor air quality and what you can do to improve it.
Up in the Air
Air quality should be a primary concern of every homeowner. Your home is constantly exposed to chemicals, toxins, and other contaminants called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These substances can cause or trigger health problems such as asthma, allergies, headaches, and ADD, among others.
Contaminated air isn’t a minor health risk. In the last 14 years, asthma rates in kids increased by roughly 160% because of poor air quality indoors. So what’s a homeowner to do in the face of this challenge?
Greener Pastures
The key is to identify the many sources and forms of air contaminants. Perhaps the most alarming are the airborne pollutants coming from building materials. Siding, windows, and even the roof can emit chemicals and other substances in a process called off-gassing. Unfortunately, these materials can continue releasing harmful gases many years after their installation.
What you should do is consult siding, windows, and roofing companies in Maryland regarding your air quality concerns. If you need to replace certain components of the home, ask if they can recommend green solutions and products.
Fiber cement is one of the most eco-friendly building materials the industry has seen in years, for example. It contains natural raw materials, such as cellulose fibers, instead of harmful asbestos. James Hardie® manufactures some of the best fiber cement siding in the business. It will be a good idea to check out their amazing roster first.
Similarly, GAF, the country’s leading provider of roofing systems, is famed for their green designs and manufacturing processes. If you plan to replace your roofing in Maryland, GAF systems are your best and safest bet. They feature low-emitting materials, sealants, and adhesives. Consider their Timberline® Cool Shingles series if you’re looking to improve not just air quality, but also energy efficiency at home.
DryTech Roofing recognizes the huge role building products play in indoor air quality. That’s why we choose our materials responsibly. As we share the same green philosophy, trusted industry names such as James Hardie and GAF have allowed us to put their stellar products on our roster.
Call us at (240) 547-2447 today for more sustainable solutions!