Treating Windows

It seems that most people in Texas suffer from allergies of one type or another. Some of us never find out what we are allergic to. We try to pin point the time of year that we are most affected or what we might have been exposed to when an attack comes on, but sometimes it is just hard to figure out.

Our surroundings can cause more problems than we think. Dust and mold in our homes are two of the main culprits. Pet dander and dust mites are right at the top of the list, too. Sometimes keeping a clean house is just not enough. We need to dig a little deeper.

Inefficient windows are an often-overlooked cause of both dust and mold. If windows are not sealed well, moisture and dirt will filter into the house. Often we are unaware of that moisture creating mold behind the sheetrock or around the window casings until they are badly damaged. While mold is growing and the walls are disintegrating, you are breathing the air that circulates around it.

Check your windows for moisture, both on the glass and on the casings. If you discover any condensation, you have a problem. Not only are you losing valuable air, but you are allowing bad air into your home. That tainted air could be causing your family to have health issues.

In thinking about the efficiency of the windows, you also need to consider what you have covering them. Although I love wonderful window treatments, if your family is prone to serious allergy issues, you might need to consider removing any fabric treatments that are not washable.

Custom draperies are often installed permanently on boards. They are not meant to be washed. Cleaning comes from dusting and vacuuming, which does a satisfactory job of preserving the fabric, but it does not eliminate dust mites. The best bet for an allergy-ridden family would be sparse treatments made with washable natural fibers like cotton.

Hard window treatments work well, also. For instance, vertical blinds make excellent window coverage when trying to keep your home allergy free. The vertical slats do not collect dust like horizontal ones.

If you use horizontal blinds, vacuum the slats or wipe them with a damp cloth. Do not use a feather duster. The dust is just pushed from one spot to another and is still causing the problem.

Roller shades are great window coverage because they have a flat surface. Flat surfaces do not hold the dust and germs well, so there will be less build up. Cleaning a flat surface is also easier than getting into deep folds of fabric where dust mites thrive.

Windows and window coverings are not often considered when trying to resolve allergy issues. Maybe it is time to investigate some of these suggestions for your home. If you have been struggling with causes and cures, these troublemakers might need some attention. Attack them where it hurts. Seal those windows and clean window coverings often.

It will be like a breath of fresh air. Your family will appreciate it, too.