Indoor air quality - healthier indoor air - is an issue that more and more homebuyers have become aware of over the past few years. Whether their apprehension is based on news reports, safety worries or general concern for the family's health, it highlights the importance of building with indoor air quality in mind.

A tight, pressure-balanced home decreases the potential for unwanted drafts and poor quality air entering from undesirable areas, such as the basement, ground or garage. But tight construction also means greater attention should be paid to making sure there is adequate fresh air, as all homes have indoor pollutants and moisture resulting from normal use.

The Environments For Living® program requires a mechanical fresh air ventilation system that provides controlled delivery of fresh air into the home and dilutes everyday indoor contaminants to promote a healthier environment. A tight home also means greater attention should be paid to open-flame appliances that result in the release of combustion gases and moisture. The Environments For Living program provides enhanced safety by requiring carbon monoxide detectors as an added precaution and by making sure combustion appliances within the conditioned space are sealed or power-vented.

By meeting this challenge, you can offer homeowners a living environment with reduced dust and odors, and greater peace of mind.