In this post, we’ll be exploring how condensation causes mould.
Condensation is a common phenomenon that occurs when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, leading to the formation of water droplets.
While condensation can affect various surfaces, metal roofs, particularly those with a low angle, present unique challenges. In this blog post, we will explore the impact of condensation on metal roofs, focusing on its potential to cause mould growth and its implications for health.
By understanding this relationship, homeowners and builders can take proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with condensation.
The Nature of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs have gained popularity due to their durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal – they’re also relatively low cost, and are quicker and easier to install than more traditional roofing materials, such as tiles.
However, they also possess certain characteristics that make them susceptible to condensation-related issues – namely that metal is a good thermal conductor – meaning it can cool and heat up relatively quickly. What happens then, is that metal roofs are often close to the outdoor temperature and thus can be very different to the temperature within a roof space or attic.
Metal roofs are typically installed with an angle of less than 22 degrees, which poses challenges when it comes to managing water runoff (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021), we’ll come back to this.
Condensation Drips and the Risk of Mould Growth
In traditional roofing systems with steeper angles, rainwater efficiently runs off the surface, minimising the chances of water accumulation and subsequent condensation-related problems.
However, when the angle of a metal roof is less than 22 degrees, condensation cannot run off it, which results in it dripping.
As I always say, mould is a moisture issue.
Mould spores are everywhere and are waiting for the right level of moisture to become active. Metal roofs with condensation issues can provide an ideal environment for mould.
The growth of mould on a roof's underside not only compromises its structural integrity but also poses serious health risks to occupants (National Construction Code, 2021).
I want to illustrate this for you with some photos I took of the underside of a metal roof that covered a deck.
These photos were taken mid morning after a cold night. You can see the condensation lined up along the valleys of the metal roof (left). As well, you can see the moisture on the table beneath (right).
Health Implications of Mould Growth
Mould growth can have significant implications for human health. Exposure to mould spores, particularly indoors, can cause a range of health problems, including allergies, respiratory issues, and even infections. Individuals with existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of mould exposure (Wang et al, 2023; ABCB, 2019).
There is a growing body of research that highlights the detrimental effects of mould on respiratory health, emphasising the importance of preventing mould growth in buildings to safeguard occupants' wellbeing.
Mould, including the strains commonly found in damp and poorly ventilated areas, thrives in the presence of moisture. Metal roofs are condensation risks, and without enough slope, this can drip onto insulation or the plasterboards of the ceiling, and result in “hidden mould”, and thus can be playing a role in health issues, even when there is no visible mould.
Understanding the Causes of Condensation
To effectively address condensation-related issues on metal roofs, it is crucial to understand the underlying causes.
While the slope of the roof is an incredibly important factor, there are other important considerations. These are high humidity levels within the building, inadequate ventilation, and temperature differentials between the interior and exterior environments. Identifying these causes allows homeowners and builders to implement appropriate measures to control condensation and mitigate its impact (ABCB, 2019).
Mitigating Condensation Issues on Metal Roofs
To combat condensation problems and prevent mould growth on metal roofs, several strategies can be employed:
Improving Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is essential to expel excess moisture and maintain a balanced humidity level. Proper airflow helps in reducing the likelihood of condensation formation (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021; New Zealand Building Performance, n.d.). Some simple steps include venting extractor fans to the exterior of the building (not into the roof space), installing whirlybirds, depending on the climate, opening the roof space up to allow air circulation (e.g. having metal mesh soffits).
Insulating the Roof
Insulation acts as a thermal barrier, minimising temperature differentials between the interior and exterior surfaces of the roof. This helps reduce the occurrence of condensation by preventing warm, moist air from coming into contact with the cold metal surface (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021; New Zealand Building Performance, n.d.). Care also needs to be taken to ensure that the insulation does not block the condensation runoff, and also that it isn’t directly beneath the metal roof.
Installing Vapour Barriers
Vapour barriers are effective in preventing moisture from permeating into the roof structure. By creating a barrier, they minimise the chances of condensation formation (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021; New Zealand Building Performance, n.d.). What they do is allow water vapour to escape from within the building envelope.
Compliance with Building Codes and Standards
To ensure the safety and quality of construction, it is crucial to adhere to relevant building codes and standards. In the case of metal roofs and condensation management, the Australian Building Codes Board and National Construction Code provide guidelines and regulations to mitigate the risks associated with condensation and mould growth (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021; National Construction Code, 2021).
In New Zealand, where “leaky buildings” have been a significant issue, the New Zealand Building Performance provides valuable resources and information on weathertightness and managing condensation to address these concerns (New Zealand Building Performance, n.d.).
While Condensation Causes Mould it Can Be Mitigated
Condensation on metal roofs, especially those with angles less than 22 degrees, can lead to the formation of condensation drips, increasing the risk of mould growth. This can have detrimental effects on both the structural integrity of the roof and the health of the occupants. Mould exposure can result in allergies, respiratory issues, and infections, particularly for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Understanding the causes of condensation, such as high humidity levels and inadequate ventilation, is crucial in developing effective strategies for mitigating condensation-related problems. Improving ventilation, insulating the roof, and installing vapour barriers are practical measures to control condensation and prevent mould growth.
Compliance with building codes and standards ensures that construction practices align with recommended guidelines for condensation management. By implementing these strategies and following regulatory requirements, homeowners and builders can create healthier living environments and prolong the lifespan of metal roofs.
Taking proactive steps to address condensation issues on metal roofs is essential for safeguarding the integrity of the structure and the well-being of those who reside within. By prioritising proper ventilation, insulation, and moisture control, homeowners and builders can minimise the risks associated with condensation and create a safer, mould-free living environment.
Wang, J. et al (2023). Effects of mold, water damage and window pane condensation on adult rhinitis and asthma partly mediated by different odors. Building and Environment, 2023. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.109814
Moving house can be an exciting and stressful experience. Apart from packing and unpacking, there are many things to consider.
To help make your move as smooth and healthy as possible, I’ve compiled a checklist of tasks to complete at different stages before moving day.
Plan and Prepare
The first step to a successful move is planning and preparation.
It's important to create a moving plan and decide on the moving date, book a reputable moving company, and reserve a parking space for the moving truck if necessary.
You should also take the opportunity to declutter your home by going through your belongings and donating or selling items you no longer need or want. This not only reduces the amount of items you'll need to pack but can also help to create a healthier living environment in your new home.
It's also important to notify your utility companies and service providers of your move and arrange for services to be discontinued and transferred to your new address.
Don't forget to change your address with the post office, banks, insurance providers, and any other relevant parties.
Pack and Protect
The next stage is to start packing and protecting your belongings.
Gather packing supplies such as boxes, tape, and bubble wrap, and use new boxes to avoid any potential mould or fragrance issues.
Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in to make unpacking easier.
And if you aren’t going to be there when the removalists unpack (yes, I had this happen when I moved interstate), be sure to provide a floor plan and label the boxes according to which room they need to be put in.
If anyone in your household has an allergy to house dust mites, it is important that they protect their health by wearing a mask and gloves when packing and cleaning.
Finalise and Confirm
As moving day approaches, it's time to finalise and confirm your plans.
Double-check the date, time, and any special instructions with your moving company.
Make sure everything is packed and ready to go, and do a final clean of your old home.
Arrange for a deep clean of your new home before moving in to ensure it's a healthy and safe living environment.
Many of my clients find it helpful to have someone wash all walls and ceilings with sugar soap to get rid of the smells of previous residents.
It's also important to confirm your plans with family and friends and ensure everyone is aware of the moving schedule and has their own arrangements in place.
Final Preparations
Pack a box with essential items, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents, that you will need immediately upon arrival at your new home.
Confirm the arrival time of the removalist.
Make sure you have enough cash or you’re able to pay the removalist by card.
Clean your old home, making sure you haven't left anything behind.
In addition to packing your belongings, consider packing a “survival kit” that will tide you over for the first 24 hours. This could include:
The kettle and your favourite beverages
Cups or glasses
Purified water
Food you can eat as you unpack
Basic crockery and cutlery
A frozen pre-cooked meal you can heat up for dinner
If you have pets, make sure you have their water bowl, food bowls, food, medications and beds
I always like to have music on – so back in the day, I’d have my favourite CDs + stereo
Keep your air purifier with you, as you will likely want to put that on when you arrive
Self-Care: Moving Day
Once you’re up and out of bed, wrap your mattress in a tarp and tie it so that it is well-protected while in transit.
Before leaving your old home, conduct a final walkthrough to check all rooms and storage areas to ensure nothing is left behind.
When you arrive at your new home, confirm all utilities are working, and begin unpacking and settling into your new home.
Keep your labelled boxes and important documents in a safe and accessible place.
The first 5 things to set up in your new home:
1) When I first moved out of home, Mum told me the first thing to set up was my bed. And she was right. At the end of a long and strenuous day, being able to hop in a shower then flop into bed is essential.
2) Set up your air purifier so you’ve got clear air from the get go.
3) Get your kettle and drinks set up – it’s so important to stay hydrated.
4) Make sure you get the basics of your kitchen set up – the fridge, and what you’ll need in the first 24 hours.
5) The stereo is next – or however you listen to music. I love music to keep me motivated.
Moving House is a big deal, but it can be smooth
Moving house requires careful planning and preparation, but with the above checklist, it can be a smooth and healthy experience.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your move is stress-free and that your new home is a healthy and safe living environment for you and your family.
If you're looking for more tips on healthy living in rental properties, including how to protect your rights, health, and belongings as a tenant, be sure to check out my “Blueprint to Living in a Rental” course.
The Impact of Plastics on Our Health & The Environment
Plastics have become an integral part of our daily lives, but their effects on our health and the environment are becoming more and more apparent. In this post, we'll delve into some of the issues posed by the widespread use of plastic, on human health and on our planet.
We’ll explore topics such as microplastics, plastic pollution, and the chemicals found in plastics that can disrupt our endocrine system.
The Effects of Microplastics
Microplastics are small plastic particles that are less than 5 millimetres in size.
These particles can come from a wide range of sources, including cosmetics, clothing, and industrial processes.
Dr. Janice Brahney, an assistant professor at Utah State University, explains that, “Once they enter the environment, they can cause a range of problems.”
Research from the University of Plymouth has revealed that a single polyester garment can shed up to 1,900 microfibers in one wash, and these microplastics can enter the food chain when they are ingested by small marine creatures, eventually making their way into the seafood we eat. Microplastics can also cause physical harm to marine life, disrupting their digestive and reproductive systems.
There is growing concern about the impact of microplastics on our health.
Recent research suggests that these tiny particles can enter our bodies through the air we breathe, the food we eat and even the water we drink.
A study published in Environmental Science & Technology in 2020 found that people could be ingesting an average of 5 grams of plastic every week, which is the equivalent to the weight of a credit card. This means that we are consuming microplastics in our food and water, and these particles could potentially cause long-term health problems.
Plastic Pollution in Our Environment
Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges we face today.
Dr. Jenna Jambeck, an associate professor of environmental engineering at the University of Georgia, states that, “Over 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic have been produced since the 1950s, and the majority of that plastic is still in the environment.”
Plastic pollution not only affects the aesthetics of our planet, but it can also have a serious impact on ecosystems. Birds and other wildlife can become entangled in plastic, or ingest it, causing injury or death. Some sea birds are mistakenly fed plastics as babies, resulting in them being too heavy to fly, so they drown when they head out to sea.
The impact of plastic pollution on our oceans is particularly concerning.
According to a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050 if current trends continue.
Plastic pollution can also have a direct impact on human health. In areas where plastic waste is burned, it can release toxic fumes that are harmful to human health.
The Impact of Plastics on Human Health
Many plastics contain harmful chemicals, including phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), and other endocrine disrupting chemicals.
Dr. Leonardo Trasande, a professor of environmental medicine and paediatrics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, explains, “These chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates hormones that play a critical role in human health.”
Phthalates are often added to plastics to make them more flexible, but they have been linked to a range of health problems, including hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues.
BPA is a chemical used in plastics that can mimic oestrogen in the body and has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems. In many situations, this has been replaced by bisphenol S (BPS) which isn’t any better!
Endocrine disrupting chemicals can also impact foetal development and may lead to long-term health problems.
One of the most concerning aspects of plastic and health is the potential impact on unborn babies.
Research has suggested that exposure to certain endocrine disrupting chemicals during foetal development could lead to a range of health problems later in life.
A study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that women with higher levels of phthalates in their blood during pregnancy were more likely to have children with language delays.
Another study found that BPA exposure during pregnancy could increase the risk of behavioural problems in young girls.
It's not just unborn babies who are at risk from the chemicals found in plastics.
Adults can also be affected.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that men who consumed food from plastic containers had lower levels of testosterone than men who did not.
Summing it all up –
Plastics have become ubiquitous in our society, but their impact on our health and the environment is becoming increasingly concerning.
Microplastics are found in our food, water, and air, and plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges we face.
Chemicals found in plastics can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to a range of health problems, including reproductive issues, obesity, and diabetes.
It's important to reduce our use of plastics wherever possible and to recycle and dispose of them properly.
By doing so, we can help to protect our planet and our health.
Want your home to be a healthy one that supports your wellbeing?
Like to find out more about creating a healthy home?
Grab this FREE Could my house be making me sick? guide here.
References
Brahney, J., et al. (2018). The plastics revolution: how have we created a world in which plastic threatens life? The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/the-plastics-revolution-how-have-we-created-a-world-in-which-plastic-threatens-life-102335
Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2016). The New Plastics Economy: Rethinking the future of plastics. https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/publications/the-new-plastics-economy-rethinking-the-future-of-plastics
Mínguez-Alarcón, L., et al. (2018). Urinary bisphenol A concentrations and association with in vitro fertilization outcomes among women from a fertility clinic. Human Reproduction, 33(11), 2053-2062. https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/33/11/2053/5064139
Rochester, J. R. (2013). Bisphenol A and human health: a review of the literature. Reproductive Toxicology
Paint Chips from old peeling paint can potentially expose your family and pets to lead, which is a risk to long term health.
While lead may have been banned, it is still present in many buildings.
So how do you know if the paint on your home contains lead?
Unfortunately, you can’t tell by looking as there are no obvious signs that paint may contain lead.
However, I would say that in most cases, it probably does, to varying levels.
The best guide would be that if your home was constructed and/or painted prior to 1997, it is highly likely to contain “lead paint.”
In 1997, in Australia, the lead content of domestic paint was reduced to 0.1% lead (= 1000 ppm lead), prior to that it was much higher.
On 1st October 2021, lead paint was banned in Australia. This means that all domestic paints contain lead that is limited to 0.009% = 90 ppm – ultimately meaning that no lead can be added.
The great news is that manufacturers were informed about this back in 2010, so you can rest assured that any paint made in Australia on and after this date has no added lead.
While leaded paint is safely encapsulated by more recent coats of paint, it doesn’t pose a risk in normal daily life.
However, if you are planning to renovate your home, you could be biting off more than you intended.
The only way to know for sure is to test it.
Spot tests from the hardware store are pretty unreliable.
Laboratory analysis is always the best way to go*.
Otherwise, you could assume that the paint contains lead, and manage it accordingly.
The Dos and Don’ts of Leaded Paint
If the paint in the area you are wanting to paint is in good condition, then you can:
Wash the walls with sugar soap
Allow them to fully dry
Paint them carefully
However, if you are planning to remove the paint – STOP! Read this first.
Don’t dry sand.
Sanding will cause the lead to be released as airborne particles.
If you need to sand, then wet sanding is your go to method.
Don’t use a hot heat gun.
The heat gun will cause lead vapour to be released.
The only way around this is to use a heat gun with a temperature setting, and use it on the lowest setting. Keep the heat gun away from the wall. Everyone present needs to be fitted with a P2 respirator to prevent inhalation.
Avoid chemical stripping.
Chemical stripping can cause lead to end up in the wood. The end results of this is that because no paint is visible, anyone would assume that it is safe to sand. But this is not the case.
MUST DOs
In all instances, I strongly recommend the use of PPE – a respirator is essential.
P1 for sanding. P2 for using with a heat gun.
I also recommend using an air purifier to capture fumes and dust.
Before you remove leaded paint, carefully lay down a drop sheet (taping down the edges) to ensure that you’ll collect all the lead chips.
Ensure that you carefully collect all leaded paint chips, emptying them into a bag and sealing it well.
Clean the area and surrounds thoroughly to ensure that there are no paint chips or dust around from the renovation.
The LEAD Group recommends the 3-Bucket Method for cleaning. (Note, I am not a fan of step 5 – please choose an alternative way to dispose of the contaminated water.)
The Risks of Leaded Paint Chips and Dust
I recently tested a home that had been renovated, and there were paint chips all over the garden.
Whilst the paint chips definitely posed a problem to the occupants and their pets, the dust in their home also contained levels of lead that were high enough that by US EPA standards deemed the house uninhabitable for a child.
So follow the steps above and keep safe from lead.
Other Potential Sources of Lead When Renovating
We’ve talked about paint chips and dust in the home.
However, there are other potential sources of lead that you can be exposed to when renovating.
The two bigs ones are:
Ceiling Dust
Carpets
Ceiling Dust
Ceiling dust is usually full of all sorts of contaminants – lead dust being one of them. Dust can contain lead even in new buildings, particularly when near busy roads or industrial areas.
Like when sanding, dust from the ceiling can easily be inhaled or ingested.
And as such, I always recommend having ceiling dust professionally removed prior to any renovations.
Carpets store a lot of dust and other matter – we won’t go into the details here, just know it’s like a time capsule of your home.
Pulling up carpets and underlay can expose you to a lot of this matter, so care needs to be taken.
Simply spray carpets with water, cut them into strips and roll them up. Taking it a step further, it is advised that you then wrap these carpet rolls in plastic and carefully remove them. This last step prevents contamination of other areas of the building from both lead and mould spores.
The same can be done with the underlay.
I then recommend a good clean, following the Three Bucket Method, as well.
Other Reno Tips
Make sure you clean up well – take extra care to remove dust, paint chips and other debris.
Test the soil if you’re planning to have a vegetable garden or chooks, you have pets, you’ve got children (especially if they’re prone to pica – eating things that aren’t normally considered food).
Take care to choose taps and tapware that are lead-free.
Interested in Learning More?
Check out this post and details about how to join lead expert, Elizabeth O'Brien (The LEAD Group) for a live Q&A call during International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week of Action (ILPPWA). Don’t worry if you’ve missed the event – go there anyway as I’ll post the video of the call there for you. 🙂
*I’m doing onsite assessments for lead, so if you want my help, enquire here.
This year, our activity for International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week of Action (ILPPWA) is to host a live Q&A session with lead expert Elizabeth O'Brien.
Although it's my favourite season, Spring healthy home threats can be found in every home.
I love the palpable buzz of new life and energy. When we’re surrounded by colour as flowers burst open, and there are fledgling birds all around.
Here in Melbourne, it is considered the most variable of the seasons – I’m sure this is the season that inspired Crowded House’s “Four Seasons in One Day.”
And, like for every season, there are healthy home threats that are closely matched with this one.
What is a “healthy home threat”?
A healthy home threat is anything that interferes with the good work we’re doing to create a healthy home. It could be an allergen, a rise in relative humidity, a leak, new paint, a new technology – there are so many possibilities.
Which Challenges Does Spring Bring?
Spring brings with it longer days (with the sun rising earlier and setting later) as well as warmer days. In many areas, the winds pick up. And when I lived in the Blue Mountains, I braced for “thunderstorm season,” as I called it.
It’s important to understand how the season causes us to change our behaviour, as this can give us clues about what may pose a risk to our great efforts in creating a healthy home.
As Spring gains momentum, we tend to:
Get outside more
Open the windows to let the warmth in
Continue to use heating (as the days are still cool, and vary a lot)
Bring flowers inside
Get out into the garden
Plant vegetables, herbs and flowers
Some of us partake in the traditional “Spring Clean”
Let’s now explore how these changes can become Spring healthy home threats.
Mould Spores
Variations in temperature throughout the day, and also from room to room can create opportunities for mould to grow.
Another change is the increased ventilation as we open up to welcome in the warmth and beautiful Spring air.
Spring Cleaning results in us pulling furniture out, cleaning, sorting through items that may have been untouched for some time.
It’s important to remember that mould releases spores when there are any changes to its environment.
Releasing spores is how mould manages to spread and survive “attacks,” and we need to keep this in mind.
SOLUTIONS
Aim to keep temperatures throughout your home as consistent as possible – opening ALL windows and doors can be part of this strategy.
Use air purifiers, particularly when Spring Cleaning. (This one is the bee's knees in terms of powerfully cleaning the air.)
Building materials having different temperatures can create the possibility of dew point being reached within the building. I know that sounds technical, but bear with me as I translate this.
When dew point is reached, moisture in the air can condense on a cool surface – this could be on a wall or ceiling, or within the structure of the building itself.
Obviously then, this creates moisture. And, as I always say, mould is a moisture issue.
In my years of assessing homes, I’ve seen some dramatic differences in the temperature of building materials, and have frequently found “hidden mould” in brand new builds.
SOLUTIONS
When heating your home, heat your entire home, and keep indoor doors open to help the temperature stay even throughout.
Keep furniture at least 10cm away from exterior walls so that the walls maintain a consistent temperature.
Ensure that your building is insulated properly – that the entire wall, ceiling or floor is insulated, and it has not been installed in a patchy way.
Keep an eye out for condensation – and dry it off as soon as you see it with a microfibre cloth. If it’s on the ceiling or high window, you can use a flat mop, rather than climbing on a ladder.
Watch the relative humidity – the more moisture in the air, the greater potential for condensation to form. Hygrometers are ideal for this.
Pollen and Microbes
Spending time outside can see an increase in exposure to pollen as dormant plants spring into life – which is a huge problem for people with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and also asthmatics.
And of course, the increased winds can cause pollen to travel…
And because gardening involves stirring up the soil, we can inadvertently be exposed to various microbes in the soil.
SOLUTIONS
Be aware of allergenic pollen in your area, check out this pollen calendar.
If you have allergies (known or suspected) to pollen, then keep the windows closed, stay indoors, and keep your air purifier nearby.
Check pollen alerts (you can get local apps for these).
Keep an eye out for thunderstorm asthma alerts, too (I think mould is part of this picture, not just pollen, but that is yet to be proven).
When you are out and about (including gardening), wear a mask, and consider protective eyewear.
House Dust Mites
With the changing temperatures, we’re often caught out at night – either being too hot or too cold…
This can cause us to perspire (or sweat) a lot overnight – which is just what house dust mites want.
House dust mites soak up moisture through their skin, and, a bit like mould, can thrive in moisture environments.
SOLUTIONS
Check the predicted overnight temperature before going to bed, and adjust your bedding accordingly.
Pull the covers back to air your bed through the day – there’s no need to make it!
When changing the sheets, vacuum your mattress while it's still warm.
Wash your bedding often and dry them out in the sun.
Read this post for extra information on house dust mites.
Spring Healthy Home Threats… now under control!
There you have it, healthy home threats that are unique to Spring… and most importantly, steps that you can take to protect your health.
If you’d like any help with this – then you can book a call with me, I’d be more than happy to help solve your healthy home issues.
Spring is the BEST time to create new routines…
I've created a course that is for people just like you – keen to understand healthy homes at a deeper level… and to take more action.
Having a home assessment is one thing (a good place to start) –
Actually having a plan to move forward and maintain your home so that it supports your health is essential.
And that what this course is – your step-by-step, easy to implement healthy home action plan.
I've reduced the price to just $97 AUD to support and empower you on your healthy home journey.
Winter with its cold and often wetter weather presents unique healthy home threats that differ from other seasons throughout the year.
What is a healthy home threat?
A healthy home threat is something that challenges our efforts in creating a healthy home. It might be something that undermines what we’ve done, or perhaps something that needs to be considered to prevent issues.
Which Challenges Does Winter Bring?
I like to start with looking at the way that our behaviours change with the seasons, as well as the climatic conditions.
The drop in temperatures, the increase in rain in many parts of the country, the advent of snow in the ranges, and the shorter daylight hours tend to see us:
Be indoors more of the time
Use heating
Perhaps light the fire, especially for date night
Close windows and doors to keep the cold out and heat in
Draw curtains and blinds for more hours due to the earlier sunset
We wear more layers of clothing
Our clothes are thicker
We may need to dry our clothes inside due to inclement weather
We often eat soups, stews and roasts – making the most of our ovens
Some people bathe more often or take longer and hotter showers to warm up
You may be surprised to discover that all of these behaviours can create healthy home threats.
Let’s take a look at the threats and what can be done to reduce any issues.
Reduced Indoor Air Quality
When we “close up” our homes (closing windows and keeping doors shut) to keep the heat in, we’re reducing the number of times that the air is exchanged. This means that the air doesn’t get diluted often, if at all, which can result in reduced indoor air quality.
What happens is that VOCs, gases and other contaminants build up in the air. Oxygen levels often are reduced and carbon dioxide can increase – leading to feelings of sleepiness.
The simplest thing to do is to leave windows open just a tiny bit, as long as it is safe to do so, can dilute the air well.
Regularly opening windows and doors several times throughout the day will exchange the air, and I recommend that this is done at least 3 times a day, and preferably every hour or two.
If it isn’t possible to do this 2-3 times a day, then an air purifier would also assist.
Carbon Monoxide Build-Up
There’s a big difference between carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the gases that we exhale.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that comes from combustion – gas appliances are one of the biggest contributors to CO levels within our homes. Cars are another big source, which is why I don’t like people idling their cars in their garages or driveways.
Since we’re using gas appliances more during winter – heating, cooking, hot showers – there’s an increased risk.
SOLUTIONS
Have your gas appliances checked by a licensed gas fitter every autumn so that they are ready for use in winter.
Ventilate your home often – as discussed above.
Avoid idling your car in the garage or driveway.
Poor Outdoor Air
The levels of outdoor air pollution can become very high in areas where people rely on wood fires for heating.
The smoke produced by wood fires can contain formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, chemicals (some of which are known carcinogens) and fine particulate matter.
According to the Environment & Human Health Inc. (n.d.) wood smoke “interferes with normal lung development in infants and children… can depress the immune system… [and, according to the WHO] can cause coughs, headaches, eye and throat irritation in otherwise healthy people.”
Whilst enclosed wood fires, such as Coonaras, don’t release the pollutants indoors, they are still released outdoors, and can readily affect your neighbours, particularly who are sensitive and/or have asthma or other respiratory complaints.
SOLUTIONS
Avoid using wood fires.
Rug up and/or be physically active – this is a great time of year to get big gardening jobs done.
Invest in an air purifier to help clean your indoor air.
Increased Moisture Levels
Did you know that “occupant activity” is one a big factor in indoor moisture levels?
The obvious ones are bathing, drying clothes, and stovetop cooking. However, occupant activities that increase moisture also include using gas appliances, breathing and sweating (or perspiring).
Given we tend to not only wear more layers in winter, but also the layers are thicker, they take longer to dry. As a result, many people dry them inside near a source of heat, or pop them in the clothes dryer.
Combine our tendency to be indoors in winter with these activities, then add to it the closed windows and doors, you can see how quickly moisture levels can increase.
SOLUTIONS
Monitor the levels of relative humidity with a hygrometer – we’re aiming for 45-55% RH; 50% RH is ideal.
Use extractor fans when cooking, bathing or laundering.
If your extractor fans don’t vent to the outside, or you don’t have efficient ones, then a dehumidifier can be useful.
Mould on Windows & Curtains
In the cooler months, many people report condensation on windows and glass doors especially in the mornings.
This happens because glass changes temperature quickly, and moisture in the air condenses out of it, forming condensation on this, and other, cold surfaces.
It is due to the presence of this moisture that mould can readily form on blinds or curtains that touch the glass, and even on the glass itself.
This post was written by Griffin Parrish, an intern at Siege Media. He's drawn on reputable sources to back up his work and what he's written for us is so inspiring.
With an increasing number of people working from home, some are taking it to the next level by working from outside. With a variety of mental and physical health benefits, taking your work outside is a great way to improve your daily life. Whether you take your laptop to a park or work from your backyard or balcony, there are many ways to transform your work life for the better.
What Does It Mean to Work From Outside?
Working from outside (WFO) is a new trend in working from home – where you can complete your daily work outside in a natural environment. WFO is especially easy for those who already work from home. Without being tied down to a specific office building, you can easily find a place to work without being trapped indoors.
Examples of WFO locations include:
Coffee shops with outdoor seating
Parks
Backyards
Balconies
Pergolas, porches, patios
By working outside in nature, you can reap the benefits of being outdoors without falling behind in your job.
What Are the Benefits of Working From Outside?
In a traditional office setting, many workers spend all day stuck indoors. It is estimated that the average person spends 90% of their time inside.
Spending all day sitting inside without any exposure to sunlight or fresh air can be detrimental to your mental and physical health.
Read along to learn how swapping your indoor office for an outdoor workspace can positively impact your health and wellbeing.
Increased Energy Levels
By exposing yourself to fresh air and sunlight when WFO, you can naturally increase your energy levels. Rather than relying on stimulants like coffee or energy drinks, moving your workspace outside is a great way to naturally feel more energetic.
With the natural energy you gain from working outside, you won’t have to worry about a caffeine crash later in the day.
Whether you take a short outdoor walk between meetings or move your computer outside for the day, being out in nature is a great way to feel calm and elevate your mood.
Consistent exposure to indoor air pollution can lead to various negative health effects, including:
Eyes, nose, and throat irritation
Headaches
Dizziness and fatigue
Respiratory diseases
Cancer
By WFO and limiting your time indoors, you can decrease your exposure to these harmful pollutants, therefore decreasing your risk for health issues.
Boosted Feelings of Creativity
In addition to spending time WFO, walking outside can also lead to improved brain function. By taking short walks periodically throughout your workday, you can experience an estimated 60% increase in creativity and problem-solving skills.
To maximise these benefits, try walking to your favorite outdoor work location instead of driving.
Increased Happiness
When trading your indoor office space for the great outdoors, you will notice an increase in your happiness levels. Even if you’re only outside for as little as 30 minutes per week, it has been proven that it can decrease your depression by 7%.
With an improved mood, the workday will be more enjoyable and go by faster.
Lower Blood Pressure
In addition to increased levels of happiness, spending 30 minutes outdoors per week can also decrease your risk of high blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to many adverse health effects including:
Headaches
Vision problems
Fatigue
Heart palpitations
Shortness of breath
By reducing your time spent indoors, you can help decrease your risk of heart disease and other high blood pressure symptoms.
Natural Pain Relief
When compared to those who spent their time indoors, people who regularly spent time outside had reduced levels of inflammation.
Rather than spending your time inside and continually reaching for pain medication, WFO can provide you with natural pain relief.
Better Cognitive Function
While WFO, you may notice yourself becoming more productive. This is no coincidence, as spending as little as an hour outside has been linked to a 20% improvement in memory and attention span.
By WFO, you are not only improving your mental and physical health, but also your performance.
Tips For Creating an Outdoor Workspace
Now that you know all of the benefits that WFO can provide, you may be wondering how you can successfully work from your outdoor space.
Check out this helpful infographic from Angi to learn more about how you can create a comfortable and effective WFO space.
Infographic by Angi.com
References
Included directly via hyperlinks.
If you'd like more information on how to set this up safely – avoiding hidden hazards, then book a call with Lucinda today.
