When it comes to remodeling an older home, you’ll never know what lies beneath. Some of them were built using obsolete materials containing dangerous air pollutants that cause health problems.
Here are some of the common substances that you can find when remodeling an older home:
- Asbestos
- Formaldehyde
- Lead dust
- Lead paint
- Mold and mildew
- Radon
These dangerous air pollutants can be found in:
- Adhesives
- Fireproofing materials
- Flooring
- Furniture
- Paint
- Particle board
- Pipes and plumbing
- Wall and attic insulation
Although they won’t cause problems when left untouched, these harmful substances can affect air quality in your home when they’re displaced. These materials must be removed by a professional to prevent contamination and health problems.
Health Problems Caused by Dangerous Air Pollutants
The health problems that are linked to the substances mentioned above include:
- Central Nervous System Problems
- Lead poisoning
- Lung cancer
- Liver and kidney damage
- Frequent and chronic cough
- Eyes, throat, and nose irritation
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Skin rash
- Mesothelioma
These problems are serious so be cautious with your remodeling projects. Determine what the possible air pollutants are around your home.
Safety Planning for Home Remodeling Projects
Check to see whether you have a problem with the old and new materials in your home. Follow these steps:
- Check whether the old materials in your home contain asbestos or other harmful chemicals. See whether it contains instructions on how to remove them completely.
- Before you start your remodeling project, ask your contractor to inspect and test the air quality of your home to check for potentially dangerous substances that may leak into your air supply. You may also hire experts to take the necessary steps to contain harmful pollutants and to protect your health.
- Solve mold or mildew problems that arise during the renovation. Replace moldy materials and clean everything properly.
- Be extra cautious when you install new products and apply new finishes. Bear in mind that paints, varnishes, and thinners may release harmful chemicals; so take the necessary precautions per manufacturer’s suggestions.
- Make sure that the area is well-ventilated when you work. Open the windows and use fans to get air pollutants out of your home.
- To keep air pollutants from circulating throughout your home, seal off all the vents and ducts of your heating and cooling system.
Home remodeling projects are an excellent venue to check whether you have proper ventilation throughout your home. Aside from that, it provides a good opportunity to evaluate the overall health of your home and fix potential problems.
As you remodel your home, bear in mind that your home insurance coverage may need to be enhanced as well. Check with your agent whether you need more coverage in your policy.
Wellcovered Insurance is committed to helping you get the appropriate insurance coverage you need for your home. We offer home insurance products that you can customize according to your needs and budget. Get a quote from us today and talk to one of our agents. Call us at (386) 218-4951 or email us here.
