Living through a major home remodel can turn anyone’s life upside down, but when you suffer from asthma, it could also affect your health. That’s why it’s so important to hire a contractor who knows how to minimize indoor air pollution during a home remodel.

Dust and debris from demolition and construction work can wreak havoc on your eyes, nose and throat, and a qualified remodeler will know what to do—and what not to do—to minimize these pollutants. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, here are some steps that should be taken:

• Minimize dust. Surfaces should be misted with water before sanding or scraping, and the work area should be covered with plastic or poly tarp sheeting to contain the dust. Areas of the house can even be sealed off, with the work performed behind plastic barriers. Vents should be sealed as well.
• Ventilate well. An exhaust fan can help remove dust and other debris. Because it creates a pressure barrier, a fan will also keep pollutants from spreading to other parts of the house.
• Clean often. Vacuum and sweep the house as often as possible to catch and contain debris.
• Work “green.” Use formaldehyde-free materials as well as low VOC (volatile organic compound) latex paint instead of oil-based paint.