Clean Indoor Air Starts From Below

While we are concerned with the quality of the air outdoors, we don't realise what potential harm the air we breathe in our houses can cause on our health. We should be more concerned with the indoor air quality, since it is something we can easily improve. Your guide to a healthy home and clean air starts here. Below are some healtier options on helping to improve indoor air quality, which starts from what is under our feet.

Subflooring
When renovating your home, choose subflooring that is suitable for use in cold, damp environments, like in basements. Make sure that it helps reduce moisture build-up, that helps prevent mould, mildew and fungus growth.

Adhesives
Regular carpet and flooring adhesives are full of VOCs and are highly toxic, which can increase and worsen indoor air quality problems. Purchase adhesives and finishes that are solvent and VOC free.

Under-Carpet Cushioning
We tend to overlook at under-carpet cushioning. It is important to purchase good quality carpet underlay, because underlay collects and stores dirt, mould, and contaminants. Look for those that are made from high-performing, cross-liked polyethylene foam. It emits far less VOCs than most carpet underlays, and it is resistant to mildew, mould and bacteria. It is also easy to vacuum up dirt, allergens and dust.

Under-Floor Heating
Under-floor heating is a great way to add warmth throughout your home. Heat is evenly distributed and absorbed by objects, which is then spread throughout the room. This is also a great way to save on energy, as you reduce the need to increase the temperature of the room, ultimately reduce the use of conventional forced-air heating systems, meaning that fewer allergens and dust are blown throughout your house. Under-floor heating helps you use heat more efficiently, and will help you reduce your energy use by up to 28*, according to the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers.