Avoiding Exposure to Toxic Chemicals – Safe Home Remodeling Idea

Is your home remodeling idea safe from toxic chemical exposure?

By: Brian Turner
Contributor-Writer

Renovating your home can be an exciting project. Many do-it-yourselfers relish the chance to try their hand at a new renovation, whether it is a simple task like repainting or a challenge like replacing hardwood floors or redoing a bathroom. However, with each new project come risks, especially if you are remodeling an older home. No matter how great is your home remodeling idea, dangers lurk in the old construction materials, like asbestos or lead paint. Following a few safety rules while you transform your home can help safeguard your family's health.

The most fundamental safety rule as an important home remodeling idea is to keep small children and family pets away from renovation projects. Aside from the safety hazards that tools and chemicals such as paint thinner present, your child or pet may inadvertently become exposed to hazards from the materials you are covering or removing. According to the Office of Children's Health Protection at the United States Environmental Protection Agency, children are more at risk from exposure to hazardous chemicals and materials than adults because they have a lower body weight and they are less scrupulous about ingesting foreign substances and hand washing. Keeping them out of the area where you are working can prevent toxic exposure to hazards like asbestos, which may contribute to cancer like mesothelioma down the road.


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Second, have your home checked for asbestos, mercury, or lead before you begin to remodel. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry at the United States Centers for Disease Control recommends that if these hazardous materials are present you hire a professional contractor who is licensed to remove such hazards from your home. These professionals know how to identify, remove, and dispose of these materials in a safe manner. Furthermore, most states require a special license to remove and dispose of hazardous materials. You could be fined for attempting to take care of the problem yourself.

In addition to old materials, it is important that you are safe with new chemicals and building materials. Toxic fumes and residues can be present in everything from treated lumber to new carpeting, and manufacturers are typically not asked to advertise those risks. Before you build, question the sales representative at your local hardware or home improvement store. Ask for building materials that have low levels of formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. Both of these substances have been linked to cancer and other health problems. Feel free to discuss your own home remodeling idea with them.

To protect yourself while working, make sure there is adequate ventilation in the construction area, especially if you are painting or dealing with chemicals such as paint, paint thinner, or glues. After installing new carpeting or flooring that requires the use of glue or adhesive, air out the room for 48 hours to get rid of any toxic fumes.

Improving your home can be one of the most rewarding tasks you can undertake. Following these common sense tips can make sure that you and your family can enjoy your new construction or renovations safely. When in doubt, consult a professional about the best way to complete a task and check whether your home remodeling idea is safe. This will prevent mistakes that can end in health problems.