Indoor air quality can have a negative effect on your health, and the air inside your home is oftentimes more polluted than the air outside.
Explore five effective wellness design principles that can lead to better indoor air quality.
INCREASE NATURAL LIGHT
One of the most effective ways for improving the interior of your home is by bringing in more sunlight, which also provides numerous health and wellness benefits:
• helping the body to produce vitamin D
• promoting better sleep by helping the body maintain its circadian rhythm
• improving your mood and energy.
Consider large windows and window combinations. Casement windows from Andersen, which are available in dramatic sizes, create a stronger connection to the outside. Certified by Energy Star, homeowners can opt for more glass in their windows while continuing to prioritize energy efficiency.
INVEST IN SAFE MATERIALS
Potentially harmful VOCs, or “volatile organic compounds,” are gases emitted from certain common household products, including paints, varnishes and cleaning supplies. Exposure to VOCs can lead to eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and over time, can even cause organ damage, according to the EPA. However, selecting “zero-VOC” and “low-VOC” options will minimize the potential for these pollutants to impact your air quality.
FOSTER VENTILATION
Ventilation helps your home rid itself of moisture, smoke, cooking odors and indoor pollutants. To ensure maximum natural ventilation, be selective about the insect screens you choose for windows and doors. TruScene insect screens from Andersen let in over 25 percent more fresh air and 50 percent more clarity than standard Andersen fiberglass insect screens.
ELIMINATE DUST
Accumulated dust can irritate the eyes, lungs and skin, and further aggravate the symptoms of people living with allergies. Sometimes attempts to free a home of dust only end up kicking up more debris. To avoid this, use wet dusting methods. When it’s time to empty vacuum bags and canisters, do so carefully — preferably outdoors. Finally, make maintaining a dust-free home easier by investing in an air purifier.
DECORATE WITH PLANTS
Decorating your living spaces with plants is not only a beautiful design statement, but plants also act as natural air purifiers, absorbing toxicants and converting indoor carbon dioxide into oxygen.
For more healthy home ideas and inspiration, visit andersenwindows.com.
This article is courtesy of StatePoint Media.