Health, Wellbeing,
Living Comfort
The 7 factors that determine
the environmental quality in
our homes. Learn our Tips and
advice for a better living!
HUMIDITY
An indoor humidity above 70% produces mold and consequent spores that generate allergies. Technical and constructional solutions allow regulating the rising damp, preventing the development of dangerous condensation on walls, ceilings and under-roofs. The concept of structural ventilation is very important for the regulation of indoor humidity.
TIPS: Foundations, Ventilated roof, Openings
The ideal indoor humidity level ranges from 40% to 55%
LIGHT
Our health and the one of our homes is connected with sunlight. The UV rays are essential for physical and mental wellbeing, other than being a powerful natural germicide. A careful design of facades, their orientation and the quality/quantity of windows, all guarantee the adequate coefficient of light, ventilation and energy saving.
TIPS: Passiveness, Openings
Light and colour can increase our personal energy up to 85%
VENTILATION
Proper ventilation is the first solution to the problems of contamination and poor thermal comfort. The choice of the type of window fixtures and the design of openings are essential elements. The formation of fresh air streams reduces the concentration of humidity and pollutants that are the cause for several diseases. The improvement of air quality translates in health and wellbeing.TIPS: Openings, Ventilated Roof
For an adequate air renewal is recommended to ventilate every 2h
TEMPERATURE
Temperature and humidity are the defining factors of a building’s thermal comfort. Optimal temperature is 22°C in winter and 24.5°C in summer. Constructional features and bio-insulation help prevent naturally thermal excursions and reduce energy consumption. The walls’ thicknesses, passive ventilation systems, insulating paints, are just some of the possible design solutions.TIPS: Passiveness, Ventilated Roof, Walls
A passive house, like the human body, is able to regulate the internal temperature
CONTAMINATION
On average we spend 80% of our time indoors, where we are constantly exposed to chemical, physical and organic pollutants. Among the chemicals formaldehyde and VOC found in building materials, finishes, furniture, are responsible for 40% of indoor pollution. Each choice of construction materials and the use of emission-free materials, can minimize health damages. TIPS: Foundations
The Radon gas is the largest sourge of radioactive exposure
WATER
Water, like air, is vital element and constitutes 70% of our body. Therefore the quality and characteristics of the water are crucial for our body.The layout of hydraulic pipes and the constructional design must ensure the complete safety and sanitation of the water. Water quality is strictly linked to the materials which the pipes are made of. Pure water is odourless, tasteless and colourless.
Drinking water must have a pH between 6.5 and 9.5
NOISE
Noise is a major cause of environmental pollution. 65 dB is the maximum threshold of noise intensityfor indoors comfort. Although the human ear is more sensitive to certain frequencies the perception of noise is subjective. Noise is a source of stress, learning difficulties and sleep disorders. Constructional solutions, insulating materials, double glazing, low noise appliances are effective solutions forreduce noise pollution.