I grew up on a tobacco farm in Southern Maryland, right on the Patuxent River. As a kid we ran through fields, went marsh mucking and fishing, and always had our windows wide open on sunny days. Allergies and indoor air quality wasn’t something we worried about 30 years ago, but today it’s more prevalent than ever.

Did you know that 40-50 million people in the United States are affected by allergies? And 17 million have been diagnosed with asthma – it’s the 6th most chronic condition in the United States and is the most comm serious and chronic disease among children. (Thanks to University of Maryland Medical Center for these facts). That’s staggering… And to think there are simple things we can all do at home to improve air quality, perhaps reducing some of the allergy and asthma symptoms for sufferers.

Here are some tips to improve air quality at home:

• Pella Windows and Doors – the blinds and shades between the glass option on Designer Series windows and doors prevent allergens from sticking to traditional blinds or shades, reducing the amount of dust and dander in any given room. For this reason, they are quite popular in medical facilities and homes where allergies are prevalent!
• Ventilate your home often – open the windows and doors on a cool breezy day to let polluted air out and clean air in
• Keep the air in your home safe: Test for radon and install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
• Reduce indoor humidity: Use the vent fan when taking showers and use dehumidifiers in damp rooms. Not sure if you have a humidity problem? Test humidity levels by using a hygrometer (moisture detector)
• Avoid toxic chemicals! Many of these you know about, like pesticides, fertilizers, and cleaning products which have safe alternatives, but did you know formaldehyde lurks in many products, including paint. Using Low-VOC or VOC-free paints reduce toxic chemicals and lead found in earlier paint and sealant products.
• Be cautious of fires. If you burn candles, stick to lead-free wick candles and/or soy-based candles. If you have a fireplace, use hardwood and avoid burning pressed wood, printed paper and particle board.

What other tips do you have for keeping our interior spaces breathing friendly?

Psst… Have you heard? HBAM is holding a Sales Boot Camp on March 9, and it’s FREE! WOWEE!!

The Sales and Marketing Council of HBAM is bringing a morning full of action to build sales and marketing skills. The list of speakers is quite impressive!

• Dennis O’Neil of O’Neil Interactive will be discussing Social Media
• Tice Burke of Trulia.com reaching buyers using Trulia and similar products
• Kent Mesner of BRAC Task Force of Howard County will explain how to be a part of BRAC
• David Charron of MRIS digs in with e-marketing
• Steve Meszaros of Maryland Association of Realtors is presenting, “Leveraging the Power of Two”
• Cathy Werner, Remax American Dream will discuss the partnership of a builder and realtor
• Mark Whitman, Partner at Yerman, Witman, Gaines and Conklin will share his perspective of opening doors with a circle of influence

I can’t wait to sit front and center and learn about all the things these local leaders have to share.

Don’t forget to register soon, seats will fill quickly!

• March 9, 2009
• BWI Sheraton
• 8:30a – 12:00pm

I look forward to seeing YOU there!

From everyone at KC Company, we want to thank you for your business and look forward to more successful years with you in 2010!

K.C. Company, Inc. joined Green Building Institute as part of our commitment to supporting local industry associations and raising environmental awareness at the design/build level.  We’d like to thank David Woolley-Wilson, Executive Director of Green Building Institute who recently presented “Our Buildings, Our Environment” at the KC Company Pella Pro Expo 2009. (continue reading…)

Recently, Austin, Texas passed a law requiring energy audits as part of the home sales process for homes 10 years or older. The idea, at first glance, is to work towards eco-friendly communities throughout Austin and can serve as a sales tool.  According to a TV station in Austin, economically, the ordinance brings rise to the need for certified energy auditors and has created more than 100 jobs for home auditors.

But, is this the right approach to promote energy efficiency in our communities? (continue reading…)

Builders and contractors are invited to the Pella Pro Expo event hosted by KC Company for the opportunity to visit with vendors and take part in educational sessions. This free event takes place on June 4th at 3:30 at KC Company Corporate Offices. (continue reading…)

Posted by:  Katie Roberts, Community Manager

In today’s world, we hear about ethical decisions people make every day. Just turn on the news and we are feed stories ranging from corporate executive scandals and government cover-ups to average citizens making a positive difference in their neighborhoods. (continue reading…)

Posted by Katie Roberts, Community Manager

Let’s face it, building a home is expensive. An investment in time to make the right decisions about your home is equally important as the actual investment itself. When we think “build green” (continue reading…)

Posted by:  Jeneane Becker, Sales and Marketing Coordinator

The American Flag…  Lady Liberty…  Mickey Mouse…  The Twin Towers…  The Olympic Rings…   These are all iconic images that represent something much greater than the image itself. (continue reading…)

Posted by:  Rita Ballard, Customer Service Specialist

Most People call it the “Golden Rule”. Even the Scriptures identify it as the second greatest commandment. Around here, we also call it “Customer Service“. That rule, of course, is to treat people the way in which you want to be treated. (continue reading…)