Indoor environments can affect your health and housing value

Worried about mould, asbestos, lead and vermiculite in your home?

Asbestos is a mineral fiber used in several building materials such as pipe insulation, vinyl floor tiles, plaster, ceiling tiles and duct insulation. Homes built before 1985 are likely to contain asbestos-containing building materials. If you are planning to renovate, protect your health and get the building materials in yuor home tested.

Mould are fungi, a group organisms including mushrooms and yeasts that are ubiquitous in the outdoor environment. Mould spores can enter your home and begin to grow should there be a source of moisture. Mould is a health concern as some moulds can release mycotoxins, which can cause allergic symptoms in certain individuals. Symptoms include itchy, water eyes, sneezing and skin rashes.

Lead is often used in paints and glazes for pipes, mechanical equipment, doors, baseboards, framing and ceramic tiles. Many older homes contain lead-based paints, which can be disturbed during renovations and cause adverse health effects. Ingestion or inhalation can casue a variety of symptoms from nausea and diarrhea to neurological issues.

Vermiculite is a naturally-occuring mineral comprised of mica-like flakes used to unsulate attics, as it is light-weight, fire resistant and can expand 8 to 30 times its size when heated. When the material is disturbed, sometimes the asbestos becomes airborne and is considered a health hazard. The presence of vermiculite in your home can also affect market value. It is important to have the material tested.

Homeowners should seek an environmental consulting company specifically focused on helping residential clients with their environmental needs, and who has a thorough understanding of indoor environments, building structure and potential hazards.

Air testing and environmental inspections help ensure the safety or your family and your home.