With so much emphasis on indoor air quality these days, many building owners and managers are looking for innovative, safe improvements without compromising on quality. As concerns for our environment and the health of your building’s inhabitants grows, knowledge about the steps you can take to improve air quality becomes increasingly important. Here is what you need to know.
Air quality, airflow, and regular maintenance are three things to be mindful of when you’re in charge of maintaining a commercial building. As we noted, the emphasis on indoor environments these days causes many businesses to want creative solutions that will be easy to maintain.
By taking the time to improve your air quality in your Houston Building, you may improve your company’s reputation with customers by keeping healthier air movement and other safe practices. For the best options for improving air quality in your commercial building, we have put together some of the simplest and most effective ways to improve air quality in your building.
Air Flow
Efficient airflow or, conversely, the lack of good air circulation, can affect your air quality.
Improving the air circulation throughout your commercial building can improve the overall health and productivity of your employees.
By regularly maintaining and cleaning your vents, exhaust, and ceiling fans, you will be able to keep your airflow moving and in a healthy state.
HVAC air filters need to be replaced on a quarterly basis not only to keep the airflow and air quality high but also to keep your equipment in its best condition.
By increasing air circulation in enclosed spaces, you may even see an increase in cognitive function and attention span by the inhabitants of your building. This is especially true in office areas where individuals are at their workspaces for long periods of time. When opening a window isn’t an option, improving air circulation via fans or ventilation systems can help with airflow in your building.
Regular Maintenance and Updates
Air quality and regular maintenance go hand in hand. When routine maintenance and inspections are not prioritized, issues in your building that can pose health concerns will likely arise. It is of the utmost importance to keep your building on a regular maintenance schedule to detect any issues before they become major concerns.
Specifically speaking to the issue of air quality, the biggest concern is allergens or pollutants that remain on your surfaces. When water or humidity levels are allowed to infiltrate areas of your building without remediation, mold or mildew can take hold. This can lead to respiratory issues especially for those with asthma or severe allergies. Your roof may also be an overlooked area that is in need of maintenance and that may be causing health risks if it is not regularly maintained.
Air Quality
If your airflow and regular maintenance practices are properly in place, air quality can still be impacted by other factors.
Other factors that can impact your air quality will differ depending on what your commercial building is used for, for example, a manufacturing facility or a coffee shop.
To improve your air quality, you will need to reduce and limit the number of pollutants that are regularly found inside your building.
Additions like indoor plants and minimizing the number of synthetic materials inside are great ways to naturally reduce air pollutants. However, one of the most commonplace pollutants can be found on your painted surfaces.
Paints contain certain chemicals that can harm the air we breathe. As your paint dries and remains on surfaces, it releases a byproduct known as Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs. Over time, VOCs can decrease air quality and have an effect on people with respiratory issues. What is commonly called “new paint smell,” the production of VOCs in the air can even cause allergic reactions or symptoms like nausea if the area is not properly ventilated.
Thankfully, technological advances in paint provide many options with low or zero VOC levels. These new advances are offered by trusted brands that are working towards healthier air quality. With these improvements, we now have paint options that can break down VOCs and other air pollutants, are antimicrobial, and are able to prevent mold and other harmful bacteria, from entering your interior spaces. The only thing left behind is a beautifully painted interior with improved air quality.
If you are in the Houston area and need help with your building to improve your air quality, the experts at Streamline Painting are here to help. With experience in inspections and access to resources like paint with zero VOCs, our teams of licensed professionals are equipped with the right tools to help your building look and feel healthy. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us get your next interior project underway!
