If you’re suffering from headaches, sore throat, itchy eyes, or a serious cough, you might think you have a cold you just can’t kick. What you might not know is that these symptoms could be related to indoor air pollution.
Even the tiniest particles of indoor air pollution can lead to a wide range of health issues. That’s why homeowners have to stay constantly vigilant in the battle against these pollutants – both identifying them and knowing what to do when they’re discovered.
What is Indoor Air Quality?
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is the quality of breathable air inside and immediately around homes and other structures. As we learn more about how our environments affect the health of people inside them, studying IAQ has become far more important – especially when it comes to ways of improving it.
Some elements of poor IAQ include:
- Mold and mildew
- Second-hand smoke
- Radon
- Lead particles
- Asbestos
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Strong odors
- High or low temperatures
Poor Indoor Air Quality can be caused by a virtually limitless number of factors. Most commonly, they’re the result of deteriorated building materials, excess moisture, cleaning products, faulty appliances, tobacco products, older HVAC systems, and many others. Homeowners should always be cautious when it comes to what goes on in their homes, the condition of their structures, and the overall health of their family members.
Health Issues Related to Air Quality
Many homeowners are shocked to find that their indoor air pollution can actually be worse than outdoor air pollution. Studies by the EPA have shown indoor air pollutants may be up to five times higher than outdoor levels. This can lead to a range of short- and long-term health problems for occupants of homes, businesses, schools, and other structures, including:
- Headaches
- Allergic reactions
- Eye irritation
- Skin irritation
- Coughing and irritated nasal passages
- Scratchy throat
- Aggravated symptoms of respiratory illnesses and diseases
- Life-threatening affects, especially in the case of carbon monoxide poisoning
- Asthma issues
- Fatigue
- Cancer in the case of prolonged exposure
Any exposure to the pollutants and negative effects of poor Indoor Air Quality can be dangerous, both from the damage they can cause immediately and their long-term impacts. If you or your family members are suffering from any of these health issues or have existing conditions which could be worsened by poor IAQ, it’s important to know your options.
How Roof Repair or Replacement Helps Improve Indoor Air Quality
Old, outdated, or poorly installed or repaired roofing systems can have a serious impact on your home’s Indoor Air Quality. Whether it’s from shoddy workmanship, second-rate materials, or simply the age of your roof, your loved ones may be suffering from health issues related to your roof without your realizing it. That’s why it’s critical to keep your roofing system up to date and in the best possible conditions all year.
At Best Choice Roofing, we specialize in analyzing the quality of your roof, attic and other elements of your home that protects you from pollutants. To be sure the Indoor Air Quality in your home is in a safe state, contact us for a no-obligation free roof inspection and consultation today. We’ll help you identify any issues that could lead to poor IAQ and return your peace of mind.
