by Chris Copley, Senior Field Advisor, Tremco Roofing & Building Maintenance
Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a crucial factor in the health and well-being of students and school staff. With Americans spending 90% of their time indoors and the average adult breathing around 3,000 gallons of air daily, the quality of that air is vital. Poor IAQ can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and even affect cognitive function, which directly impacts student performance and attendance.
If you’re hearing complaints like these — one classroom is too hot, another too cold; odors from the pool permeate the halls; noise from the cafeteria disrupts classes in adjacent rooms; or students and staff consistently have dry, irritated throats — indoor air quality could be the issue.
The Building Envelope and IAQ Connection
The condition of built-up roofs and building envelopes is integral to maintaining good indoor air quality. Building envelope components act as barriers against external elements, helping to regulate indoor environments. Regular inspections, maintenance, and timely repairs of roofing and building components are essential to prevent issues with ventilation, moisture control, and the infiltration of outdoor pollutants, all of which are crucial for maintaining good IAQ.
Let’s examine the factors that affect indoor air quality in schools, how to determine whether you have indoor air quality issues and review best practices for HVAC maintenance and monitoring.
Impact of Building Envelopes on IAQ
The building envelope (or enclosure) is made up of roofs, walls, doors, windows, foundations, insulation, etc. – everything that keeps the outside out. The condition of these components, in combination with the condition of the HVAC system, all factor into the quality of the air inside. If the components are not working as they should, ventilation, moisture control, and the ingress of outdoor pollutants can quickly become problematic. Here’s what to be aware of from the building envelope perspective:
· Ventilation A well-sealed and insulated building envelope facilitates controlled ventilation, allowing for efficient exchange of indoor and outdoor air. Inadequate sealing can lead to air leaks, reducing ventilation efficiency and allowing outdoor pollutants to infiltrate indoor spaces. Testing can be done to determine how well-sealed your building is. Common culprits are gaps in roof/wall connections, around doors and windows, and within shafts.
· Moisture Control Water intrusion is never welcome. A well-maintained building envelope should prevent moisture intrusion from rain, snow, or humidity, reducing the risk of mold growth. Moisture accumulation can also release VOCs from building materials, compromising indoor air quality. Moisture incursion doesn’t always present as roof leaks; often, it’s hidden and can be discovered through available diagnostic techniques such as infrared scanning.
· Pollutant Infiltration Gaps and cracks in the building envelope can allow pollutants such as vehicle emissions, pollen, dust, and even insects or vermin to enter indoor spaces. Proper sealing and maintenance can prevent this, ensuring cleaner indoor air.
· Energy Efficiency and IAQ Building envelope improvements aimed at enhancing energy efficiency, such as air sealing and insulation upgrades, can inadvertently affect indoor air quality by reducing natural ventilation rates. Proper ventilation strategies, such as mechanical systems with heat recovery, can mitigate this issue. It’s important to monitor your HVAC system’s “health” and efficiency.
· Preventing Mold Growth Mold growth is a common concern in schools, especially in areas prone to mold, such as basements, bathrooms, locker rooms, and spaces with poor ventilation. To prevent mold:
o Conduct regular inspections for signs of mold or water damage.
o Ensure proper ventilation and humidity control, especially in high-moisture areas.
o Use dehumidifiers to maintain humidity levels between 30% and 50%.
o Promptly repair any leaks or HVAC malfunctions.
Start with IAQ Testing
So, where to begin? You can work with professionals to conduct baseline IAQ testing to establish current air quality levels and identify potential sources of indoor air quality issues. Parameters typically measured include:
· Particulate Matter (PM): Dust, pollen, mold spores, and other airborne particles.
· Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Emitted from building materials, furnishings, and cleaning products.
· Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Indicates ventilation rates and occupancy levels.
· Carbon Monoxide (CO): A dangerous gas produced by incomplete combustion.
Once a baseline is established, you can measure the effectiveness of any remediations. Then once you’ve addressed any building envelope concerns, it’s good to follow these HVAC best practices:
HVAC Inspection and Maintenance
o Clean or replace filters regularly to ensure proper airflow.
o Inspect and clean ventilation systems to remove debris or blockages.
o Seal HVAC ducts to prevent air contamination.
o Calibrate thermostats for accurate temperature control.
· IAQ Testing and Monitoring
o Install air quality monitoring systems to track key parameters such as PM levels, CO2, VOCs, temperature, and humidity.
o Maintain records of air quality data to identify trends and issues.
· Ventilation Improvements
o Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove airborne pollutants.
o Promote natural ventilation by opening windows and doors when outdoor air quality is acceptable.
o Implement an HVAC schedule for increased fresh air intake during non-peak hours.
· Regular Custodial Cleaning and Maintenance
o Clean surfaces regularly, especially those prone to dust accumulation.
o Use high-efficiency filters in vacuums to reduce allergens.
o Maintain cleanliness in storage rooms and restrooms.
· Mold Testing and Prevention
o Address water leaks or damage promptly to prevent mold growth.
o Ensure proper ventilation in high-humidity areas.
o Educate staff on identifying and reporting mold issues.
Take a Proactive Approach to IAQ
Prioritizing indoor air quality in schools is an investment in the health and academic performance of students and staff. By following EPA recommendations and focusing on the role of HVAC systems and building envelopes, schools can create a learning environment that nurtures physical well-being and educational success.
In addition to following the tips above, the state of Ohio publishes a list of resources regarding action steps and funding for improving IAQ.
A “Building Health Check” or IAQ testing should be integral to any facility’s maintenance budget and planning. Through a combination of field and laboratory review and testing, you can secure actionable data for corrective measures. And once you “pass” the test, you can breathe easy so that staff and students have a healthy environment.
About the Author
Chris Copley is a Roofing and Building Envelope Field Advisor for Tremco Roofing and Building Maintenance. Tremco Roofing is part of Tremco Construction Products Group, the industry’s only provider of comprehensive systems and services for all six sides of the building envelope. Visit tremcoroofing.com to learn more.