Page 36 - Green Builder Nov-Dec 2020 Issue

Work to do. Builders and designers
can clarify IAQ priorities for clients. Introducing IAQ
CREDIT: JUAN MONINO ISTOCK
to Homebuyers

ONSUMERS’ INTEREST IN HEALTHY HOMES offers a
tremendous opportunity for building professionals and
manufacturers to help homeowners truly understand the
C nature of IAQ. As a result, builders are changing their approach
to promoting healthy homes:
Generate “situational awareness.” Builders work with homeowners
to conduct an IAQ assessment. Through this, the homeowner gains
an understanding of the health risks within homes, and the builder
can address each family’s unique situation given physical ailments
and concerns.
Teach homeowners to mitigate IAQ risk. For example, builders are
specifying healthy, low- or no-volatile organic compound (VOC)
paints, materials, finishes, furniture and cleaners. Lessons are given
on how to help purify indoor air through proper ventilation, clean filters
and fresh air exchange; keep surfaces clean to prevent infectious
particles from becoming airborne; reduce risk of mold and water
damage; maintain pest-proof homes by filling cracks on the building
envelope and properly storing food.
Engage at-home monitoring. Homeowners are advised to deploy
ongoing monitoring and management by identifying healthy thresholds
based on families’ specific needs. They can then create IAQ strategies
accordingly, such as installing demand-controlled, integrated systems
that keep IAQ at healthy levels without human engagement.
SOURCE: COGNITION SMART DATA

Which Indoor Air Pollutants Concern All

Homeowners Most? Owner
Renter

45%
40%
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0% Pests Dry air
Chemicals from furnishings
Dampness, mold, moisture Household dust Water quality Pet dander Ventilation insufficient Chemicals from building Outdoor noise excessive Noise issues in home Lack of natural light Lead paint Light pollution
Asbestos insulation
Air pollution from connected unit*
Air pollution from cooking/heating
Radon gas
Outdoor pollution surrounding home

Skewed concerns. Note that respondent fears are not always rational. For example, they underestimate the risk from the most dangerous toxins, such as
lead and asbestos. SOURCE: COGNITION SMART DATA

34 GREEN BUILDER November/December 2020 www.greenbuildermedia.com

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