How Can Our Services Help? | Homeward Environment

Poor Ventilation: Homes built too tightly without proper ventilation can lead to stagnant indoor air. Without adequate fresh air exchange, pollutants such as dust, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) accumulate, potentially causing respiratory issues and reducing overall air quality.
Humidity Buildup: Tight construction without proper ventilation can trap moisture indoors. Excessive humidity levels create an environment conducive to mold and mildew growth, contributing to respiratory problems and compromising the structural integrity of the home over time.
Inadequate Air Circulation: A tightly sealed home may lack proper air circulation, making it difficult to distribute heated or cooled air evenly. This imbalance results in certain areas being too hot or too cold, leading to discomfort for inhabitants and increased energy usage as heating and cooling systems struggle to maintain a consistent temperature. This can exacerbate soil gas contaminants, like Radon Gas, as well.
Increased Energy Costs: Ironically, homes built too tightly can result in higher energy bills. Lack of proper ventilation and insulation can force heating and cooling systems to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility costs. This inefficiency not only impacts the homeowner's budget but also contributes to a larger carbon footprint.

Simple Systems That Can Help!

Reflective Barrier for Radiant Heat: Foil-faced insulation acts as an effective reflective barrier, especially in attics or areas prone to radiant heat. By reflecting radiant heat away from the living space during hot weather and back into the space during cold weather, these insulation systems contribute to maintaining a more consistent indoor temperature. This radiant barrier reduces the workload on heating and cooling systems, promoting energy efficiency and lowering utility costs.
Vapor Retarder Properties: Foil-faced insulation often serves as a vapor retarder, helping control moisture levels within a tightly sealed home. In homes built too tightly, proper moisture management is crucial to prevent issues like mold growth and structural damage. The foil layer in the insulation system helps restrict the passage of water vapor, reducing the risk of moisture-related problems and contributing to the overall energy efficiency and durability of the building envelope.

Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs): Energy Recovery Ventilators enhance indoor air quality by facilitating a continuous exchange of stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. ERVs recover the energy from the outgoing air to precondition the incoming air, minimizing energy loss. This not only ensures a constant supply of fresh air but also helps in maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment, especially in tightly sealed homes where proper ventilation is crucial.
Attic Fans: Attic fans play a vital role in temperature regulation within a home by actively expelling hot air from the attic space. By preventing the attic from overheating, these fans contribute to reducing the overall indoor temperature, thereby easing the burden on air conditioning systems. This energy-efficient solution not only helps in keeping living spaces cooler but also lowers cooling costs, making attic fans a valuable addition to homes, especially during warmer seasons.