Can my house make me sick? Yes!
Here’s my list of 6 things in your Colorado Springs house that can make you sick
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1. Radon: It’s a colorless, odorless gas that can seep into the home from the ground. Radon has been called the second most common cause of lung cancer. In the open air, radon usually dissipates into the atmosphere and is not likely to cause harm. When radon enters buildings and is trapped in high concentrations, it causes health problems. This typically happens in basements with poor ventilation. (See related article: Radon testing is important in Colorado Springs)
2. Asbestos: It’s a fibrous material that was once popular in building materials because it provided heat insulation and fire resistance. Asbestos was banned in 1985 but it still may be found in older home’s insulation materials, floor tiles, roof coverings, ceilings and siding. It is only harmful when it is disturbed or exposed causing it to become airborne; which can typically happens during home renovations. It can be costly to remove because the process requires state licensed technicians and specially sealed environments. (EPA Pamphlet)
3. Lead: It’s a toxic metal used in home products for many years which can contribute to several health problems, especially among children and the elderly. Exposure can occur from deteriorating lead-based paint, pipes, or lead-contaminated dust or soil. It’s estimated that 75% of all private houses built before 1978 have lead present. Presently, there is no federal law that requires homeowners to check for the presence of lead-based paint but lead-based paint hazards must be disclosed however. More information available on the EPA Pamphlet.
4. Hazardous products: Most houses have stockpiles of hazardous household items — such as paint solvents, pesticides, fertilizers, or motor oils — that can create a dangerous situation if not properly stored or disposed. They can cause illness or even death if small amounts are ingested.
5. Mold: Mold is a type of fungus that is present in our natural environment. Mold spores, which are tiny microscopic ‘seeds’, can be found virtually everywhere, including in homes and are often a part of the general dust found in homes. These spores can grow on building materials and furnishings if conditions are correct. Excess moisture is the critical factor in any indoor mold problem. The key to preventing mold growth is to prevent moisture problems. (EPA Links)
6. Carbon Monoxide: CO is found in combustion fumes, such as those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and gas ranges and heating systems. The gases can build up in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces and people and animals in these spaces can be poisoned by breathing it. (CDC Pamphlet) In Colorado, there is Colorado House Bill 1091 requiring the installation of carbon monoxide alarms in most homes.
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