The goal of the best home projects is to apply improvements that upgrade your home aesthetically, practically and economically. They can increase your quality of life and even boost resale value on the long term. While the initial cost may be high, these improvements pay for themselves over time due to the health benefits they offer.
Keep reading to learn more about these home upgrades and how they can improve your life!
“Not life, but good life, is to be chiefly valued. – Socrates
Non-Toxic Paint
Homes that were built pre-1978 tend to contain lead paint. If that’s the case, then you might have to switch to nontoxic paint as part of your renovation. It’s okay to paint over the existing paint because sanding lead paint can actually release harmful lead dust and can only be done by a professional painter.
When picking paint for your renovation, be sure to choose non-toxic options and stay away from latex and oil paints as they contain toxic gases that can cause health issues like dizziness and eye irritation.
Look out for Green Seal-certified paints with no VOCs, as that means they don’t contain any of the harmful compounds such as carcinogens and heavy metals found in other types of paints.
Whole-House Water Filtration System
At a time when tap water across America is riddled with industrial chemicals, chlorine lead, and many other toxins, a whole-house water filter is essential for every homeowner.
Among the many harmful chemical substances found in drinking water, there are per- and polyfluoroalkyl which are known to leave a trace in your body forever. Keep your family safe!
Green Mattresses
Most traditional mattresses have harmful chemicals that can wreak havoc on your health in the long run. A 2017 warning from the Consumer Product Safety Commission urged consumers to stay away from organohalogen flame retardants (OFRs).
Unfortunately, these are contained in mattresses, furniture and toy items. Make sure your next mattress is certified chemical-free!
HVAC and HEPA Filters
Clean air is one of the keys to a healthy home and one of the best ways to clean up indoor air is by using an effective furnace filter. The latest models are great at absorbing all sorts of toxic particles and VOCs, so they’re perfect for allergy sufferers.
You may also opt for a HEPA filter which is available as a portable air purifier or HVAC system. And if you want to reduce allergens even more, add one to your vacuum cleaner.
Healthy Flooring
Floors are very challenging because each option comes with a unique set of caveats. For example, vinyl flooring often comes with chemicals, phthalates, and formaldehyde that can cause a wide range of long-term health issues.
Carpets can contain dander, pollen, dust, and other allergens. For the best results, look for healthier and more sustainable options such as:
- Stone
- Authentic wood
- Tile
- Cork
- Linoleum.
Lime Plaster
It’s equally important to choose sustainable and non-toxic construction materials when doing a home renovation.
For instance, you should always choose lime plaster instead of drywall. Lime plaster is weather-resistant, and can repel bacteria and mold. Plus, it’s less likely to crack when compared to cement plaster.
CARB-Compliant Wood
We live in a bizarre world where toxic chemicals can even be found in wood which is considered a natural substance. Things like composite wood and particleboard are made from formaldehyde chemical which is a known carcinogenic.
For the best results, always use CARB-compliant wood or sustainably grown hardwood products when planning your next refurbishment. These are compliant with the California Air Resources Board and may protect your family from developing respiratory and skin irritation.
Soundproofing
Soundproofing is essential in a world where neighbors are living closer to one another than ever. Plus, you have construction, car alarms, street traffic, and children to think about.
Install extra drywall and acoustic tiles to dampen sound, and install weather-stripping on windows and doors in order to keep the draft and noise at bay.
Central Vacuum System
A central vacuum system is the ultimate way to clean your house. All you have to do is install a central power unit in the utility room or basement, through wall inlets. That way, whenever you need to vacuum your house all you have to do is fasten the hose to an inlet and you’re ready to get rid of all the debris, dirt and dust.
The great thing about a central vacuum system is that it’s more effective at picking up allergens and dirt when compared to a portable vacuum and it makes light work of cleaning tasks that would usually take much longer. Conveniently, the dirt is placed into a bag or canister next to the central power unit.
Radon Detector
When uranium starts to disintegrate within the soil a radioactive gas called radon is produced. Because it emanates from organic matter that’s located directly underneath the foundation of your home, radon might seep into your walls through the floor.
Long term radon exposure can cause lung cancer and the best way to determine if your home has dangerous levels of this chemical is to invest in a radon detector. That way, you can take proactive steps to mitigate its effects.
Are you ready to improve your quality of life and health? Then contact a local professional and request a free quote for the best home upgrades!
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