Improve the indoor climate | Alex Garden

The indoor climate plays a crucial role in our well-being within our four walls. But what exactly does the term “internal climate” mean? And what impact does it have on the building itself? In this blog post, we will provide a clear definition, discuss methods for determining indoor climate, and present simple tips on how to improve the climate in your home.

What is the indoor climate?

Indoor climate, also known as living climate, refers to the atmospheric conditions of a living space that influence the well-being of residents. It is particularly influenced by temperature and humidity, but factors such as drafts, air quality and lighting conditions also influence the indoor climate. A good indoor climate has a long-term positive effect on health and quality of life. There are no fixed specifications for optimal values. Each inhabitant finds a different living environment pleasant: some prefer it a little cooler, others heat their room more. The intensity of ventilation also varies from person to person. Therefore there is no perfect indoor climate, but it can be defined individually by each person.

What effects does the internal climate have on the building structure?

The indoor climate not only influences the well-being of residents, but can also have a significant impact on the building and its structure. For example, excessive humidity can lead to problems such as mold growth, moisture damage, or condensation. Poor air quality also makes it more difficult to heat living spaces and therefore has a negative impact on energy efficiency. Maintaining a healthy and stable indoor climate is therefore essential to ensuring the integrity of the building in the long term.

How is the internal climate determined?

There are various methods for determining the indoor climate. Hygrometers are useful for measuring humidity. The optimal value is between 40 and 60% humidity. Thermometers can be used to check room temperature, while air quality meters measure parameters such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds), CO2 levels and dust particles in the air. Condensation forming on windows or cold surfaces can also be a sign of humidity problems. Last but not least, the personal feeling and well-being of residents is an important indicator. Stuffing air, heat or cold indicate that something is wrong with the indoor climate. The combined use of these methods creates a complete picture of the indoor climate. If necessary, experts can be called in for a more detailed analysis.

How can the indoor climate be improved?

1. Regular ventilation: Stale air out, fresh air in: regular ventilation helps remove pollutants and excess humidity, improves air quality and prevents mold growth.
2. Keep an eye on the humidity: A preventative measure against mold growth is to keep the humidity at a comfortable level. A room humidifier or dehumidifier can help.
3. Keep houseplants that purify the air: Houseplants are not only beautiful to look at, they also ensure a good indoor climate. In particular, air purification systems improve air quality and also regulate air humidity.
4. Use natural materials: When it comes to interior design, you should choose furniture, floor coverings and decorations made from natural materials to keep pollution in your home as low as possible.
5. Keep the room temperature as constant as possible: Avoid strong temperature changes caused by ventilation and heating for too long in winter. It is best to keep the room temperature that you find comfortable. If the room gets cold due to uninsulated windows, thermal curtains can help keep the cold and heat out.
6. Regular dusting: Dusting and vacuuming regularly can help minimize dust and allergens in your living spaces. This also improves air quality because there are fewer particles floating in the air.
7. Effective lighting design: Use as much natural light as possible as natural light sources. This creates a pleasant atmosphere, has a positive effect on the biorhythm and also saves energy because less electricity has to be used for artificial light.

The building material of a house contributes to the living environment

The choice of building material already determines the future indoor climate within your four walls. Brick, as a building material, offers natural, heat-storing and moisture-regulating properties. They help maintain a stable and comfortable room temperature as they retain heat well. They also allow a certain amount of moisture to spread, which can help regulate humidity. In our blog post “Ceiling heating: healthy room climate thanks to the innovative climate brick ceiling” you will find out all about the advantages of bricks and our innovative Rötzer climate brick ceiling.

For further reading

Bricks are not only good for the indoor climate, but also for the environment. It is a sustainable building material, obtained from natural raw materials and recyclable. In our blog post “Sustainable building with Rötzer brick elements – environmentally friendly and energy efficient” you can find out how building with bricks is a good option. Feel free to read it.