Construction chemicals - dangerous connections
Radon, formaldehyde, lead - these harmful substances are often our "neighbors"
Hazardous materials, toxic substances, toxic gases – the spectrum of threats is not limited to the infamous asbestos. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce their harmful effects.
Beware of radon
One of the risks for a private home is, of course, radon. This chemical element accumulates in the soil and can penetrate into the building through basements. Therefore, it is very important to prevent even the smallest cracks in the basement walls and foundation, i.e. to completely minimize the contact of the basement space with the ground. Painting, plastering or wallpapering the walls can help with this.
Lead in old paint
Entire scientific treatises have been written about the dangers of lead. Although "chemistry" with lead has practically disappeared from the modern construction market, old paint on the walls may well contain it. If you have doubts about the presence of lead in the paint on the walls of your home, it is best to repaint them. Especially if we are talking about a child's room.
Paints, dyes, glues…
What else should be avoided? First of all, mixtures that include formaldehyde. These can be glues, paints produced using old technologies. Fortunately, formaldehyde loses its properties over time. To minimize the harmful effects of such compounds, it is necessary to fully follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Do not forget also that the use of paint should be carried out under certain conditions of humidity and temperature - painting walls on a very hot day can lead to poisoning.
Sick building
All of the above, of course, is not a complete list of risks. Artificial dyes in carpets, vinyl chloride in window frames or floor panels, materials with added benzene and xylene, phenols in adhesives... All this affects the interior microclimate and can cause unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, dizziness and headaches. Allergy sufferers are especially vulnerable to toxic substances.
What should we do?
In theory, any building material should have the appropriate certificates of compliance with current standards. However, none of the existing certificates can ensure complete safety if the materials are not used in accordance with the manufacturer's technical recommendations. Carefully read the instructions to avoid unpleasant surprises.