Page 26 THE VILLADOM TIMES IV • September 15, 2010 CLEARCUT WINDOW & SIDING INC. No Job Too Small or Too Large • Custom Fitted Windows • Vinyl & Wood Siding • Small Additions • Replacement Doors, Storm Doors • Porch Enclosures Glass & • Roof Repairs • Custom Decks Screen Home Improvement Know the hidden toxins lurking at home A home should be a sanctuary, a retreat, a safe place for the family. But too often there are dangers lurking inside that can put individuals at risk. The Environmental Protection Agency reports that the chemicals in many personal care and cleaning items used in the home are three times more likely to cause cancer than outside contaminants. The home environment may be responsible for 90 percent of cancers reported. That’s because a number of homes in the United States test 70 percent higher for toxic chemicals than outside the home, according to research. So what are these hidden offenders and not-so-surprising causes of indoor pollution? PFCs: Perfluorinated chemicals are specific chemicals used to create the nonstick coatings on many pans. When left to heat on the stovetop with nothing in the pan, the PFCs can melt and be distributed into the air. PFCs can affect fertility in women and disrupt hormones in the body. They’re also highly toxic to pet birds. Radon: A colorless and odorless gas, radon is a natural substance that is found in soil and water. What many may not know is that those highly prized granite countertops may also emit radon. A homeowner should test whether their home has an unusually high level of radon and if the granite is the cause. Cleaning supplies: If the cleaning product contains an extensive warning label or the obvious skull and crossbones symbol for poison, it is likely chock-full of noxious chemicals. Try using all-natural products or even common kitchen staples, such as vinegar and baking soda, to clean. VOCs (volatile organic compounds): That “new car smell” or the smell of carpeting or paint when one enters a home may signal newness and cleanliness. However, that distinct smell is actually the result of a number of building products off-gassing in the home. Even vinyl shower curtains can give off toxic fumes. Open the windows and bring in plenty of green plants to improve the indoor air. Furniture and imported goods: Some countries do not have the same safety standards as those in North America. That means items shipped from overseas may be sprayed with preservatives or other chemicals to improve their shelf life. Even furniture from some warmer-climate countries is coated in fungicides to inhibit growth of molds and fungus. Chemicals banned here might be legal in foreign countries. Be cautious or they may end up in one’s home. Fall Fully Insured • No Subs 201-512-1804 Repair Improve Your Driveway’s Appearance And Protect It At The Same Time Driveway E-Z Stir Asphalt Filler/Sealer • Easy to stir • Fills surface cracks up to 1/8” • Dries to touch in 4 hours. Can be driven on in 24-48 hours under normal conditions • 4 year warranty Mon-Wed 7:30-6 Thurs & Fri 7:30-8, Sat 8-5 Put On A Winter Coat Today! PLEASE TAKE MY HUSBAND ! Need someone to help tackle the honey-do list ? Mature local resident can work on anything from cars to faucets. No job too small. If you are looking for a responsible individual to help you around the house … OPEN SUNDAY 9-3 Propane Filled 7 Days A Week 27 Franklin Tpke. • Waldwick • 201-652-5666 www.homehardwaresupply.com PLEASE CALL MIKE AT 201-327-3255 ����������������������� ������������������� ��������������������� ������������� ����������������� �������������� ������������� ����������� ����������������� ����������������� � ���������� ������������������������� �������������� 4-21-10 kathy/janine