【Five must-reads for parents after home renovation】
Common eye, nasal, and skin allergies among children in Hong Kong are mostly caused by allergens in the home environment. Especially after home renovations, a new home may look brand new, but it actually conceals many potential allergens that can become an invisible hazard. At best, this causes discomfort, and at worst, it impacts daily life or even health. Formaldehyde is the most well-known allergen following home renovations; however, other allergens are also lurking, posing potential health threats to you and your family.
Top 5 Household Allergens - 1. Formaldehyde
First and foremost, we must mention formaldehyde. It is the most widely known volatile organic compound (VOC) among renovation allergens and poses significant health risks. Formaldehyde mainly originates from new furniture (especially products containing glue like plywood, fiberboard, and particle board), new paint, glue, curtains, and even waterproofing or subfloor adhesives. Formaldehyde can continue to be released for months or even years. When a space is enclosed or air circulation is poor, formaldehyde concentrations can easily accumulate. Coupled with Hong Kong’s humid climate, the levels can sometimes increase rather than decrease. It is particularly reactive for infants, the elderly, or those with sensitive respiratory tracts. Common symptoms include stinging eyes, throat discomfort, chronic coughing, red and itchy skin, and it may even trigger asthma or exacerbate allergic reactions. The most effective ways to reduce formaldehyde are to select certified green building materials, maintain good ventilation, and perform cleaning and air purification after renovation is complete.
Top 5 Household Allergens - 2. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
The second frequently overlooked allergen category is VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and odors. Formaldehyde can also be classified as a VOC, and others include paint, wallpaper glue, wood varnish, floor adhesives, and cleaning agents. There are many types of VOCs, such as benzene, toluene, xylene, and ethyl acetate; some produce irritating odors. Long-term inhalation can lead to dizziness, sore throats, nasal congestion, and watery eyes. In severe cases, it can interfere with liver and kidney function, and some components may even be carcinogenic. VOC concentrations are generally higher during the initial phase of renovation and decrease over time, but some inferior materials continue to release them. You may consider using "Green Certified" or "low-VOC" paints and glues to reduce chemical emissions. During renovation, be sure to enhance air circulation, and after completion, open windows to dissipate odors and use activated carbon or air purifiers to help reduce VOC levels.
Top 5 Household Allergens - 3. Dust Mites and Particles
The third home renovation allergen is dust mites and construction particulates. During renovations, activities such as wall and floor demolition, sanding, cutting, and even material handling inevitably generate large amounts of dust and particles. These particles penetrate wall crevices, inside furniture cabinets, and even air conditioning ducts in the ceiling. Even with a thorough cleaning after completion, it is impossible to remove them entirely. Once the user moves in, these residual particles become airborne again when walking or moving around. Hong Kong's humid climate facilitates the growth and reproduction of dust mites, which feed on dust particles and skin dander, easily triggering allergies, sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and asthma. To thoroughly address this, implement sectional covering and timely cleaning during renovation. After completion, perform multiple deep cleanings and consider professional anti-mite services. Of course, choosing storage designs that are well-sealed and easy to clean can also reduce corners where dust mites hide.
Top 5 Household Allergens - 4. Mold and Spores
Hong Kong has high temperatures and humidity. Combined with the extensive use of water during renovations (masonry, tiling, plastering, paint drying), if construction or drying stages are mishandled, it is very easy to cause dampness in walls, ceilings, cabinets, and bathrooms, which slowly becomes a breeding ground for mold. Mold spreads via spores that are invisible to the naked eye. These spores easily enter the body through the respiratory tract, triggering respiratory allergies, skin sensitivities, runny noses, and watery eyes. The key to preventing mold lies in proper waterproofing and sectional ventilation during design and construction. It is best to use waterproof materials (such as using putty instead of traditional vegetable glue powder). After renovation, be sure to regularly inspect wet areas and use a dehumidifier to maintain a dry environment. If mold is detected, it should be immediately cleaned with specialized agents and the source of moisture must be eradicated.
Top 5 Household Allergens - 5. Pests
A common modern urban renovation allergen is pests and their excrement, which are difficult to detect in daily life. Newly renovated units often keep doors and windows open during construction, and wood debris, glue, and organic adhesives left inside attract small insects such as ants, fleas, beetles, and even rodents. They breed in the house, feeding on trash and wood debris, leaving excrement in cabinet bases, wall crevices, and drains. For some individuals with allergic constitutions, these microscopic insect feces and secretions are potent allergens that can cause rashes or respiratory discomfort. To avoid "getting sick before you even move in," it is recommended to conduct a comprehensive deep pest control cleaning when the project ends. If necessary, install anti-mosquito window screens, seal baseboards and drain openings, and choose biomimetic, non-toxic pest repellents.
Do Not Ignore Allergies
Allergies are household killers that cannot be ignored; severe allergic reactions can even be fatal. Therefore, choosing safe and eco-friendly building materials, paying attention to every renovation detail, and performing deep cleaning and air quality testing after the renovation are the keys to ensuring a worry-free home. To stay completely away from allergens, extreme care and professional involvement are required at every step—from design and material selection to construction supervision and project completion. Design House HK understands Hong Kong people's high requirements for renovation details and health. We specifically advocate for "People-oriented, health first." All design details and materials incorporate eco-friendly and healthy elements, while also considering air circulation and ease of cleaning. Design House HK's interior design and renovation services focus on bespoke designs. Our professional team handles everything from project planning, material procurement, and site supervision to after-sales maintenance, simplifying the process and preventing omissions or project hassles. Choosing Design House HK means not only having an ideal home that balances aesthetics and functionality but also laying the foundation for a healthy and worry-free life. Welcome to inquire about our services today.
