Important considerations when building a healthy home
Ghandi once said "It is health that is real wealth. And not pieces of gold and silver." It is this thinking that is helping to motivate so many Aucklanders building their new dream homes to make sure that they are also healthy homes (because you can never put a price tag on your family’s health).
What is a healthy home?
A healthy home exceeds current day building standard requirements in terms of energy efficiency like heating and cooling, indoor environmental quality— mainly indoor air quality and moisture management– and, for the most part, makes use of carpets, floor coverings, adhesives, and paint that do not emit toxic volatile organic compounds (VOC).
Getting it right
The Maddren Homes has been building homes in Auckland for more than 80 years, and during this time, we have learned the value of staying up to date with the latest thinking, science and technology in the home building and occupation space.
A good example of this is the work that Maddren Homes is doing with Low E and Argon Gas Windows. Glass lets heat in and out of your home, so selecting window joinery that moderates that process improves insulation.
Low E (low emissivity) is a virtually invisible coating applied to double-glazing, and it has two distinct functions: it retains heat, and it blocks excessive heat. Argon gas works a little differently, helping to insulate by minimising heat exchange through the window (it can also reduce the possibility of condensation).
Characteristics of a healthy home
Insulated walls, floors and ceilings to control heat and cold exchange between the inside and outside of your home. The aim is a comfortable and healthy temperature in every season.
Double, even triple, glazed windows. Like wall, ceiling and floor insulation, double glazing controls temperature transfer and also helps reduce invasive outside noise.
Technology for heating, cooling, and environmental recycling like air-conditioners (heat pumps) and air filters.
Excellent ventilation to improve outcomes for allergies and respiratory conditions like asthma (air conditioners are not ventilation systems, they are air recyclers). Vents, 'air bricks', extraction fans, natural ventilation from open windows home and home ventilation systems (a system of fans and ducting to remove moisture, improve airflow and maintain a steady temperature) are just some available options.
Noise control measures. Double or triple glazing windows are one strategy for noise control, but this can be extended to using acoustic panels in the building of your new home. Regular insulation can also help with noise control.
Healthy lighting. Too often ignored or treated as an afterthought, good lighting consists of a good mix of natural lightings like bigger windows, natural light tubes and skylights. Task orientated lighting is also essential. Essentially, this is lighting best suited for the task, whether this is for cooking in the kitchen or working in the home office. Good lighting has a significant impact on both physical and mental health.
A dry home— where moisture from the outside environment and activities like breathing, cooking, and showering are well controlled— discourages the presence of cockroaches, rodents and other pests. A warm, well lit, and properly ventilated home makes a significant difference to its inhabitants' physical and mental health.
Here at Maddren Homes, we are up to date with the latest science, thinking, and technology to create a healthy, sustainable home. We'd be only too happy to answer your questions and consult with you on how you can achieve your dream home, which is also a healthy and sustainable house.