OVERVIEW
As buildings become more airtight and energy efficient, actively managing indoor air quality becomes more important. Not only are some air pollutants highly dangerous, but many—like radon and carbon monoxide—are undetectable by human senses. And with 90% of our time typically spent indoors, slight elevations of VOCs can amount to chronic exposures.
Here you’ll learn what pollutants to be wary of and ways to promote clean, fresh air, including:
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finding the right level of ventilation
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specifying products that won’t emit problematic chemicals
- controlling pressure differentials to avoid unintentional introduction of polluted air
IN-DEPTH
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How Environmental Site Assessments Work
Primer
Existing buildings and previously developed sites are great, but they often need environmental cleanup. An ESA is the first step.
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Three Sources of Air-Pressure Problems in Buildings
Primer
Air movement in and through buildings caused by pressure differentials has important effects on performance and safety.
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Radon Not the Only Soil Gas to Poison Minnesota Homes
News Brief
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Benjamin Moore Natura Adds Mystery Biobased Content
Product Review
Natura Renew uses 40% biobased-content resins, but the company says it doesn't know the source, making it difficult to judge environmental performance.
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Pushing Weatherization, Feds Look the Other Way on Radon
News Analysis
When using federal dollars to button up, low-income homeowners don't get additional funding for radon mitigation. What happens next? The government isn't telling.
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Radon and Schools: A Study in Denial
News Analysis
Most U.S. states get an 'F' when it comes to protecting kids from this common but deadly carcinogen. Maybe it's time for design teams to take the lead.
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ASHRAE Standard Revised to Cut Excess Ventilation
News Brief
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Choosing Between an ERV and an HRV
Primer
Don't get fooled into buying a more expensive and complex system if what you really need is a dehumidifier.
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ASHRAE's Indoor Air Quality Guide Now Available Free
News Brief
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Laminate Flooring: Worth a Second Look?
Product Review
Laminate flooring offers recycled content and low emissions in an economical, low-maintenance product that has overcome aesthetic and performance challenges.
