Once a specialist issue, indoor air pollution is now becoming more of a widespread concern among the general population. As construction research has pushed technology to achieve less air infiltration in the house to curb heat dispersion, the pollutants inside the enclosed space become more concentrated, causing an array of symptoms and sickness. The good news about this phenomenon is that people are starting to be more aware of how dangerous the chemicals are that surround us in our homes.

To help prevent harmful effects on our health, first it is helpful to know how some of the most common contaminants work and where they are found. Formaldehyde, for instance is a known carcinogen, and potential allergen and sensitizer to other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are gasses emitted from many modern constructions, finishing and furnishing materials. Many VOCs include compounds that are carcinogens, neurotoxins, mutagens and irritants. Many VOCs have a smell; formaldehyde has no odor. Construction materials such as medium-density fiberboard, particleboard and fiberglass insulation will offgass formaldehyde for years. VOCs can be contained in paints, gypsum board, joint compound, carpet materials and vinyl-based finishes.

Even many environment-friendly materials, which are developed with the good intention of using recycled materials, are processed and compounded using solvent-based glues with toxic off gassing. Humidity accelerates the dispersion of some chemicals into the air.

Of course, just like any contaminant, the most susceptible are the youngest and the oldest. Young children’s immune systems are not fully developed and their livers cannot process toxins as well as adults’.

A natural gas, Radon is also responsible for health problems, as it is radioactive and it seeps into the house from the soil. If building a new house or remodeling, one can use a few ideas to minimize exposure to VOCs.

Here are some basic ones:

• Avoid carpets, and carpet shampoo (some are linked to Kawasaki syndrome in children). Use ceramic tiles, or hardwood floors stained with non off gass paints, like some polyurethane.
• Avoid vinyl wall paper. Use water-based paint.
• Avoid man made materials.
• Have fiberglass insulation installed on the outside of your air ducts and have the ducts sealed tightly with duct-tape. Reject the practice of using wall cavities as an air duct.
• Have the opening in your walls sealed with 100% silicon. Other sealing compounds may off gass solvents.
• Have your basement checked for radon, and, if present have the appropriate venting system installed. For more information about Raffaella Bertucci, log onto www.architectrb.com.