Absolutely. Air pollution concentration can be nearly 100 times greater inside than outdoors. The American Lung Association found that the majority of people spend 90% of their time inside, making it critical for homeowners to be aware of indoor air quality (IAQ) in Canada.
Many common household items cause bad indoor air quality, like:
- Chemicals in parts of carpet, furniture, upholstery and drapes
- Cleaning chemicals
- Paint
- Personal care products
The tight construction of today's residences also contributes significantly to poor IAQ. Upgrades like weather stripping and storm doors are created to lower utility expenses. However, they also prevent proper ventilation by keeping interior air in and outdoor air out. The result may be an accumulation of vapors within your house.
Bad IAQ can be a direct or indirect source of several health issues. Medical groups have found that nearly half of all sicknesses are tied or worsened by indoor air pollution.
Vapors within your house can result in flu-like illness including headaches, nausea and respiratory sensitivity. It can also trigger allergies and asthma.
Adequate ventilation also is an important part of enhancing indoor air quality, since it reduces the amount of indoor pollutants.