Builders can employ a variety of construction practices and technologies to decrease the risk of poor indoor air quality in their new homes. According to surveys, consumers are willing to pay up to $5,000 more for these improvements- a value worthy of decent air!
By constructing homes that meet EPA’s stringent specifications, forward-thinking builders and would-be homeowners can distinguish their homes by delivering improved indoor air quality.
What does Indoor airPlus encompass?
Moisture Control:
Build in added protection from mold and other moisture problems with water managed roofs, walls, and foundations. Features include continuous drainage planes, proper flashing and air sealing, damp-proof foundation walls, capillary breaks, drain tile, and proper grading.
Radon Control:
Provide radon-resistant construction in high radon potential areas, including gravel and plastic sheeting below slabs, fully sealed and caulked foundation penetrations, plastic vent pipe running from below slab through the roof, and an attic receptacle for easily adding an electric powered fan to the vent pipe if needed.
Pest Management:
Provide a first-line defense against pest problems by fully sealing, caulking, or screening likely pest entry points. When these physical barriers are combined with proper pest management techniques, pesticide use may be reduced.
Heating, Ventilating, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC):
Improve indoor air quality with best practice design and installation of ducts and equipment to minimize condensation problems, whole-house and spot ventilation to help dilute and exhaust indoor pollutants, and air filtration to remove airborne particulates.
Combustion Venting:
Protect residents from potential exposure to combustion gases by installing direct-vented or power-vented gas- and oil-fired equipment, properly vented fireplaces, garages fully sealed from living spaces and equipped with an exhaust fan, and carbon monoxide alarms in each sleeping area.
Building Materials:
Reduce sources of pollutants by selecting and installing materials to minimize risk of moisture damage, specifying materials with reduced chemical content, and ventilating homes prior to occupancy.