Three healthy home projects to improve indoor environmental quality

CLEAN AND CLEAR

3 healthy home projects to improve indoor environmental quality

BRANDPOINT

How healthy is your basements to bathrooms or even house? After spend- garages. For example, Uponor ing more time at Fast Trak® is a simple-to-install, home due to quar- knobbed-mat system that adheres antine and social dis- to a concrete slab for quick raditancing, many homeowners are ant tubing installation. Learn asking themselves this question. more about this unique solution

This has inspired an increase at www.uponor-usa.com/radiant. in home improvements that go A hydronic radiant system can beyond aesthetic enhancements. dramatically improve a home’s Homeowners want eco-friendly IEQ. There is no fan to circulate upgrades that improve indoor dust, pollen and odors, so you environmental quality (IEQ), can breathe easier. Because it’s in which means improvements that the floor, it keeps the heat low— support the health and wellness of where you and your family actuthe people who live in the home. ally live—without hot and cold

If you’re curious how to spots. You can easily heat in zones improve your home’s IEQ, here to save money, plus, because the are three key projects to consider: system is near-silent, you’ll enjoy HYDRONIC RADIANT a more peaceful home.

HEATING SYSTEMS NATURAL LIGHT AND

Conventional forced-air sys- DAYLIGHTING tems push heated air through Beautiful sun shining through ductwork in the walls and ceilings. a window is a welcome sight on There are many drawbacks to this any day. Natural light increases type of system. First, they are inef- the comfort of a home and can ficient because hot air blows out have a positive psychological vents and rises rather than staying impact on the people who spend lower to keep people comfortable. time there. That’s why, when Second, it circulates dust, aller- choosing home-improvement gens and pollutants that lower projects, use daylighting strategies the indoor air quality. Third, they to improve IEQ. can be noisy, turning on and off Daylighting is a method you all day. can use to welcome more natural

For a healthier home, consider light into your home. There are hydronic radiant heating. This many improvements that support technology works by warming daylighting. Adding windows water at a heat source and cir- strategically to brighten spaces culating it through piping made throughout the day is a smart first of a special polymer called PEX step. Adding skylights to bring in that is installed beneath the floor. light where traditional windows Uponor has been providing these are not possible or logical, such systems in the United States lon- as in a bathroom, also supports ger than any other company. In daylighting. fact, Uponor offers several innova- Daylighting can be contive methods for installing radiant trolled for comfort and privacy systems efficiently and effectively with shades, blinds and plants. in any area of a home—from In spaces where windows and skylights are not possible, adding reflective surfaces to the room design can provide internal lighting by maximizing the sunlight. For example, glossy tile or mirrors throughout a room can help brighten the space and align with daylighting goals.

CLEAN AIR AND PROPER VENTILATION

Airflow is an important part of any healthy home, helping to remove contaminants and bring in fresh air. Proper ventilation prevents mold and mildew growth, removes common pollutants from appliances and other household items, improves indoor air quality and boosts IEQ.

To improve your home’s ventilation, always open windows and skylights when weather and conditions allow to let in fresh air. Remember to turn on ventilation fans when bathing or showering to remove excess humidity. In addition, use fans in the kitchen to remove smoke and heat while cooking. Finally, maintain filters on items such as air purifiers, humidifiers and your HVAC system.

If you have a radiant heat system, continue to use it, as it helps to eliminate the circulation of microscopic particles that can spread germs and trigger allergy symptoms. Considering Americans spend on average 90% of their time indoors, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, prioritizing indoor air quality is essential.

IEQ is getting increased attention, as people look to improve their homes and make them healthy for their families, while also boosting their bottom line at resale. These three key areas will help you create a space centered on health and well-being. For more information, visit www. uponor-usa.com.