While outdoor air quality often dominates the conversation, indoor air quality is just as crucial—especially given how much time we spend indoors. Yet, New Zealand currently lacks specific regulations around indoor air quality, placing the responsibility on architects, designers, and building owners to make choices that safeguard the health of building occupants.
The link between insulation and indoor air quality
Among the various factors that can compromise indoor air quality, mould and damp stand out as the most serious, according to Dr Guy Coulson, Air Quality Scientist with NIWA. Fortunately, with effective insulation, the likelihood of mould developing is significantly reduced.
“Insulation greatly improves indoor air quality by regulating temperature and humidity, preventing mould and mildew growth. Mould and mildew are major issues in homes and workplaces as they release allergens and irritants into the air that can cause respiratory problems, sore throats, coughing or wheezing—many symptoms we deem typical come wintertime,” says TJ Jhagroo, GreenStuf® account manager.
In addition to biological pollutants, many everyday household items and construction materials emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)—chemicals that turn into gases at room temperature.
“Lots of common products have VOCs: cleaning products, glues, paints and some building materials including insulation. Breathing in VOCs can cause headaches, dizziness, and irritation; long-term exposure can have more serious effects. Polyester insulation emits very low VOCs, making it one of the only insulation materials completely free from chemical binders. It is also hypoallergenic, which is perfect for people with asthma or allergies.”
GreenStuf insulation is manufactured from 100% polyester, a material that is non-toxic, non-irritating, and does not release harmful chemicals or fibres into the air.
“These qualities are particularly important for maintaining good indoor air quality, which we know directly affects respiratory health and overall wellbeing,” says GreenStuf account manager Dan Hoy.
“GreenStuf is free from binders, formaldehyde, and other chemical additives, making it a safer option for people with asthma, allergies, or sensitivities. GreenStuf is also resistant to moisture absorption, which helps prevent mould and mildew growth. Dampness and mould can cause or worsen respiratory issues. By maintaining consistent indoor temperatures, GreenStuf helps create a more comfortable living environment.”
Wellbeing and sustainability
Architects, designers, and building owners who are passionate about holistic design know that wellbeing and sustainability go hand in hand. Designing buildings to support and nourish the lives of their inhabitants means thinking bigger than the building footprint to consider the environmental and health impacts of the building process and material specification. When buildings are constructed using methods and materials proven to be safe for humans and the environment, developers can guarantee healthy indoor and outdoor air quality during the project and after the build is completed.
“By using GreenStuf insulation with thoughtful design, material selection, and ventilation strategies, homeowners and specifiers can create healthier, more comfortable, and more sustainable indoor environments,” Dan says. “Do it once and do it right for your project.”
Get in touch with the team today to learn more about GreenStuf.