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(NC)—Our home is our safe-haven. It is where we go to feel secure and protected, and the materials we choose to build our home play an important role in ensuring our continued sense of security. Masonry homes are widely recognized for providing exceptional health and safety advantages, such as superior sound insulation, maintaining indoor air quality, and mould resistance.
Sound insulation is an important aspect of comfort and health. Researchers at the World Health Organization have reported that noise is an important factor in people’s well being. A further study from the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that noise may increase blood pressure or be a risk factor for coronary heart disease. It is known to cause annoyance, stress, sleep and speech interference, and to affect concentration. Extreme noise levels can also affect the body’s physical reactions, and our relations with other people.
Aside from the physiological and biological effects, depreciation of real-estate values has been found to be in the range of 0.5 to 1.0% per decibel (dB) of noise increase, according to the National Concrete Masonry Association. Masonry walls constructed of concrete block, clay brick, or stone, offer inherent sound insulation against airborne sound caused by elevators, loud music, traffic and aircraft.
The air quality of our homes also impacts our health, safety and comfort. Contaminants found in indoor air are primarily the result of indoor sources, one of which is construction materials and furnishings that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This process is called out-gassing. Masonry products release very few VOCs and contribute to better indoor air quality. The naturally appealing appearance of masonry materials also often eliminates the need for paint (both indoors and out), which can decrease the amount of VOCs released.
The inherent qualities of masonry prevent moisture from penetrating our homes and causing toxic mould growth. Masonry products will naturally protect your home from mould in more than one way. By not retaining moisture, masonry cannot rot and become a food source for mould. Properly installed masonry wall systems will help prevent moisture from penetrating your home’s vapour barrier, and allow for proper drainage. Finally, masonry products can also be effectively cleaned and do not require replacement should mould growth be detected.
When building or purchasing a new home, consider your cladding options carefully. While the lower cost of other claddings may seem appealing initially, it is important not to overlook health and safety considerations. More information on this topic is available online at www.masonryworx.ca.
The contributing factor,
Addy Saeed,
Real Estate Sales Representative,
Re/max Active Realty Inc., Brokerage
Web: http://www.HeyAddy.com
