From minor updates such as replacing the vanity in your bathroom to major renovations such as an entire kitchen remodel, it is often important to make sure your home air quality isn’t compromised during these projects. I have had multiple clients who have experienced miserable allergy and other healthy problems in the one to two years after their renovation. Instead of enjoying their new beautiful home, it’s made their life more difficult. How can you keep Your Home Air Safe During Renovation?
Follow these steps outlined below to make sure your renovation isn’t contaminating your home air:
#1 Hire a reputable contractor for all renovation work and express your air quality concerns
Even if you are looking for a handyman to tackle a small job, make sure that they can provide you with a list of references from completed projects. Use the web as a tool in researching local contractors in your area. A new and emerging website that work with many home inspectors and home buyers is porch.com. Ask your contractor what they plan on doing to contain any dangerous particles, mold spores, and VOCs that may become airborne during your renovation. Containment should be a priority for a reputable contractor, especially if you are living in your home during the renovation. If using paint or varnish, implement as much ventilation as possible for several weeks during and after the job is completed. When replacing flooring, research environmentally friendly options that do not contain formaldehyde.
#2 Rent a commercial-grade air purifier for the duration of the project
The best protection against construction dust and dangerous airborne particles are to have containment measures and remediation equipment in place. Have air purifiers running around the clock to filter your air. Make sure all air ducts are covered in the renovation areas. High-quality air purifiers should suffice for smaller home renovations or do-it-yourself projects. This equipment can be rented from a local home improvement store. Make sure that you change the filters frequently and leave them running during the entire duration of your project.
#3 Thoroughly clean up after the project is completed and then have your home air tested
As soon as the project has been completed, perform a deep cleaning of your home to make sure all dust particles and toxins are removed. Use a HEPA filtered vacuum to pick up any remaining particles and change out your filter once the project has been completed. Open the windows to air out your home. After any renovation work is finished, contact your local indoor air professional to make sure that there aren’t any lingering dangers. Knowledge is the best protection you have against harmful airborne particles and VOCs. Test your air for VOCs and formaldehyde to make sure that it is safe once all renovation work is completed.
I hope this short list of suggestions can be of help, especially if you or someone in your family has allergy or chemical sensitivities and you are planning on taking on a renovation project. Remember, when planning that dream home project, try to plan in how to keep your home air safe during renovation.