26-05-2025
'Unexpected' part of your home may 'secretly be affecting your health'
'Unexpected' part of your home may 'secretly be affecting your health'
It might be time for an inspection
Your door might be a trigger
(Image: Pexels )
Many people don't realise there is much more to a door than meets the eye. It's more than just a way to enter and exit a home, and what if yours is secretly affecting your health?
Doors can actually have a surprising impact on the air you breathe and, as temperatures rise, so do the risks, according to one expert. In England, around two million people live in homes with significant damp or mould, a major trigger for respiratory issues. Meanwhile, 97% of UK homes exceed World Health Organisation limits for at least one major indoor pollutant.
Allan Reid, double-glazed doors expert at Art Windows and Doors, said: 'People don't expect their front door to be a health risk, but if it's old, poorly sealed, or made with outdated materials, it absolutely can be. Damp gets in, mould grows behind the scenes, and older adhesives can off-gas harmful chemicals for years. You might not see it, but you're breathing it in.'
What might be lurking in your old door?
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) - Older adhesives and finishes can emit toxic gases like formaldehyde, especially in warmer weather. These airborne chemicals can cause headaches, fatigue and long-term issues
Mould from moisture build-up - Poorly sealed door frames and degraded thresholds allow rainwater and humidity to seep in. In warm weather, this creates ideal conditions for mould and mildew to thrive
Bacterial buildup in door frames and thresholds - Old, poorly sealed doors trap moisture, dirt and organic matter in small gaps, which is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. In warmer weather, they can spread bacteria into your living space without you even realising
'You can't always see the problem, but that doesn't mean it's not affecting your health,' Allan said. Spring and summer heat speeds everything up, so if your door is decades old, it's worth asking what it's really letting into your home.'
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It could be worth addressing
(Image: Pexels )
What can you do about it?
Inspect your door frame and seals - Look for gaps, cracks or visible deterioration. Damaged seals often let moisture and pollutants in, especially at this time of year when the air is more humid
Check for warning signs - Condensation between glass panes, discolouration or warping around the frame, or a musty smell near the door. This could point to mould or mildew building up out of sight
Upgrade to low-VOC materials - Modern double-glazed doors use safer materials that comply with the latest UK indoor air quality standards
Consider a professional assessment - If your home was built before the 1980s, it's worth getting your door checked, as it could contain outdated materials or hidden hazards that are best dealt with safely
Extra tips for a healthier home
