Comfort is critical when it comes to indoor living spaces. According to a study by the National Institute of Health, in 2016, over 26 million Americans reported having at least one day of poor health due to indoor air quality. Inadequate ventilation and moisture control were the primary sources of problems. You can easily avoid these problems with proper design and construction techniques.
Pursuing comfort in your home should be priority number one. But what exactly makes a comfortable indoor living space? Here are a few critical features to consider when trying to achieve that goal.
Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is one of the most important things to remember when creating a comfortable indoor living space. Indoor air can become stagnant and filled with pollutants like carbon dioxide, dust, and mold spores. Stale air can also lead to stuffiness, eye irritation, and headaches.
Proper ventilation will help to circulate fresh air and remove any harmful contaminants. Some homes have mechanical ventilation systems that bring fresh air in from the outside and expel contaminated air through ductwork. Other homes rely on natural ventilation, which uses windows, doors, and vents to exchange indoor and outdoor air.
Whichever type of ventilation system you have in your home, it’s essential to ensure it’s operating correctly. Regular maintenance and repairs will help ensure your system works as efficiently as possible.
Temperature Control
Another essential factor to consider when creating a comfortable indoor living space is temperature control. The ideal temperature for most people is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. However, everyone has different preferences, so it’s essential to find what works best for you and your family.
There are several ways to keep your space cool during the summer if your home doesn’t have central air conditioning. Ceiling fans are a great way to circulate air and create a breeze. You can also use portable air conditioners to cool down individual rooms.
Ensure your home is adequately insulated to keep the heat in during the winter. You should sufficiently seal windows and doors to prevent drafts. Space heaters can also supplement your heating system and keep specific areas of your home warm. Your furnace should also be in pristine condition, making it necessary to seek professional furnace services to avoid the dreadful cold of winter.
Humidity Control
Another factor that can affect comfort levels indoors is humidity. If the air in your home is too dry, it can lead to static electricity, respiratory problems, and cracking woodwork. On the other hand, if the air is too humid, it can create an environment ideal for mold and dust mites.
Aim for relative humidity between 30 and 50 percent to achieve optimum comfort levels. There are a few different ways to control the moisture in your homes, such as using a humidifier or dehumidifier. You can also open doors and windows to let fresh air in or take shorter showers to reduce the air’s moisture.
Soundproofing
Noisy indoor living spaces can be a huge source of discomfort. If you live in a city, chances are you’re familiar with the sounds of honking horns and sirens. If you live in a rural area, you may be bothered by the sound of animals or construction noise.
Soundproofing your home can help to reduce unwanted noise and create a more comfortable living space. Some simple soundproofing techniques include adding rugs or carpets to hard floors and using heavy curtains to block out noise from outside. You can also purchase specialized foam panels or acoustic tiles to help absorb sound waves.
Lighting
The lighting you use in your home can also affect comfort levels. Natural light is always the best option, but not everyone has the luxury of living in a sun-drenched home.
If you don’t have much natural light, use light bulbs that simulate sunlight. These bulbs emit a light similar to the sun’s natural light and can help improve your mood and energy levels.
You should also avoid using fluorescent lighting, which can be harsh and unflattering. Instead, opt for soft, diffused lighting to create a more comfortable indoor living space.
Furniture Condition and Layout
The condition and layout of your furniture can also affect comfort levels. If you have old, worn-out furniture, it’s time to consider an update. Not only will new furniture look better, but it will also be more comfortable to sit or lie on when you want to feel comfortable.
You should also lay out your furniture to promote comfort and relaxation. Avoid putting furniture in front of windows to prevent glare on television screens or computers. Leave plenty of space between pieces of furniture so you can move around quickly.
Final Thoughts
These are just a few factors to consider when creating a comfortable indoor living space. You can make small changes that will significantly impact your comfort levels by taking the time to assess your needs.
