DISTINCTIVE SPACES
THAT ENHANCE
HEALTH T here are numerous ways a home in poor condition can affect its occupants. In some cases, necessary upgrades can be lifesaving or boost the healthy livability of a space. If your home is older, itâs especially crucial to analyze it for safety conditions that may be impacting your and your familyâs health. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the use of lead paint in residential properties in 1977. Asbestos is another hazardous material used in insulation, drywall, floor tiles and cement. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the substance was banned to manufacture, distribute or process in 1989. If your home was built before this time, itâs imperative to hire an expert to determine if dangerous wall covering or insulation is present and prepare a strategy to remove it safely. Check out these other dangerous condi-
32 Northern Arizonaâs Mountain Living Magazine
tions that may be found within the place you PEST INFESTATIONS call home as recommended by the Robert Homes that are infested with pests and Wood Johnson Foundation. rodents have a risk of more than just degraded structural integrity. Inhabitants are COOL INDOOR TEMPERATURES also exposed to harmful bacteria when these Itâs crucial that your HVAC system and nuisances are present. homeâs insulation is operating correctly to If your property is overrun with pests, warm and cool your house. The National donât be embarrassed to call a professional Center for Biotechnology Information sug- exterminator. Check out these statistics gests that low indoor temperatures can lead from the National Pest Management Asto these serious health conditions. sociation to realize you are not alone in the ďŽ Inflammation of lungs and circulation struggle. inhibition. ďŽ Nearly 30% of American homeownďŽ Increased risks of respiratory illnesses ers have had a rodent problem in their like asthma. home. ďŽ Cardiovascular damage like heart disďŽ Termites cause over $5 billion in propease, stroke and even death. erty damage annually. If you have trouble staying warm during ďŽ About 63% of homes contain cockthe winter, consider talking to your electric- roach allergens, which can cause severe ity company about performing an energy allergic reactions ďŽ One in five households have had a bug audit. They can easily analyze your home to find out where youâre losing heat and infestation or know someone who battled recommend steps to correct the problem. an infestation.
