Spring is in full swing and that means seasonal allergies are rearing their ugly head once again. If pollen, ragweed and other allergens make your spring difficult, there are changes you can make to your home to alleviate some of those problems.

So if itchy eyes and a runny nose has you wishing for relief, read on below for tips on how to make your home more healthy for you.

What is a pollen count and why does it matter?

Put simply, pollen count is a measurement of the number of grains of pollen in a cubic meter of air. The higher the count, the greater chance that those suffering from hay fever will have allergy symptoms. The pollen count is different than a pollen forecast. While the pollen count is an actual count, pollen forecasts are predictions based on past pollen data and weather forecasts.

Proper ventilation

Ensuring that your home is properly ventilated is the first step to managing pollen and other allergens. Choosing the right filter for your air conditioning system is key. Many particles, including pollen and mold, are too small to be caught by average paper filters. Instead, be sure you are using HEPA filters and replacing them regularly.

Vacuum and clean regularly

A clean house is a healthier house. Vacuuming carpets and area rugs at least once a week will help remove pollen, dust mites, pet hair, mold and other allergens hiding in your home. A vacuum with a HEPA filter will help get rid of other toxins. Don’t forget about furniture, drapes and bedding, which are all magnets for contaminants. Clean the filter on your vacuum regularly.

Control humidity

High humidity creates the perfect conditions for growing mold, mildew and dust mites. Overly dry air will cause pollen to remain in the air. A humidity level of 30 to 50 percent in your home is considered optimal depending on the season.

Windows & Doors

Properly sealing around windows and doors can help reduce the pollen in your home, while also lowering energy bills. ELM Construction can help you find numerous ways to make sure home stays sealed and efficient.

While opening windows can bring in more pollen, that same fresh air can help offset other allergens. Try to open windows when the pollen count is low.

‘Flexi-Glass’ windows

One of our favorite solutions, though, addresses the issue by giving you fresh air but also blocking much of the pollen. While only for unconditioned spaces, these lightweight windows can convert your screened porch into a sealed space with flexible ventilation. They can be closed to help keep out pollen but opened at 75 percent so you can enjoy the fresh air the rest of the time. 

These flexible windows allow you to control your airflow throughout the year. You can close them in the dead of winter or summer and make your normal screened porch much more comfortable during extreme temperatures.

As an additional benefit, the flex vinyl glazing is resistant to impacts from items such as golf balls or hail, helping to protect your windows vs. regular glass.

Keep in mind that Flexi-Glass products are for screened porches or unconditioned spaces only.

Ready to plan your project? ELM Construction is here to help you improve the health and safety of your home. Contact us today to discuss your next remodel!