Protect Yourself During Peak Allergy Season in NYC

April 29, 2023 by

In New York City, grass and tree pollen levels rise to their peaks in late spring and early summer making allergy symptoms more pronounced. The first week of May is historically peak pollen levels. Pollen from grass plus maple, birch, oak and other trees can not only trigger itchy eyes and runny noses, but also asthma attacks severe enough to prompt a hospital or doctor visit. It’s important to know how to protect yourself from allergens during peak allergy season so that you can enjoy the beauty of New York City in the spring. We have good news about our beloved NYC cherry blossom trees – they aren’t much of an allergy concern because they are pollinated by insects rather than by wind, so their heavy, sticky pollen grains typically don’t travel far enough to reach allergy sufferers. Use the tips below to reduce the effects of allergies during this spring and early summer. 

Keep an Eye on Pollen Levels

The pollen count will fluctuate depending on things like temperature, humidity, and wind. Pollen counts tend to rise on dry, warm, windy days. If you are a severe allergy sufferer, it is recommended to stay indoors on warm, breezy days. Grass pollen levels are highest between 5 am and 10 am, when grass is releasing pollen into the air. While pollen from trees is highest around midday. Stay indoors as much as possible on days when the pollen count is high or it’s windy.

Keep the Pollen Outdoors

We know the spring breeze is just beckoning to be let inside, but when outdoor pollen counts are high, it is best to keep the windows and doors closed as much as you can. Turn on the air conditioner to keep the pollen out and the temperature cool in your home. Pollen counts are highest in the morning and again at night, so only open windows when counts are low. Pets can bring pollen inside on their fur. So brush their hair frequently, wash your hands after touching them, and never rub your eyes after petting them. Your clothes will attract the allergens being kicked around in the air, so change clothes when you’re done being outside for the day. Because allergens can stick to your skin and hair, it is important to shower before bed if you have been outside to remove any allergens that can irritate you overnight. 

Reduce Dust and Pollen Indoors

Dust contains pollen and other irritants that can trigger your allergies so keeping your home free of dust can make a big difference in keeping your seasonal allergies under control. Working from top to bottom in each room, vacuum away all of the dust from above door and window frames, ceiling fans, duct grills, baseboards, and the floor with a HEPA vacuum and brush attachment. A HEPA vacuum can capture 99.97% of all allergens. Have the ventilation system professionally cleaned to remove contaminants and potential allergens found in the ductwork, air conditioner coils, and air-handler. Replace HVAC filters with high quality allergen reducing filters. Try to keep indoor humidity levels below 50 percent to keep dust down and prevent mold growth.

Talk to Your Doctor

Talk to your doctor about taking over the counter allergy medicine preventatively before peak pollen season. Most doctors recommend starting your allergy regimen about a month before allergy season begins. Keep the allergy medication they recommend on you at all times, especially any asthma medication that you might need. Wearing a pollen mask while outside or cleaning inside is also an easy way to reduce exposure to irritants. 

All of us at Sentry Window Guards hope that your spring season is filled with less allergy symptoms and more fun, spring activities! For more information regarding our window guard products and our expertise in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today. 

Filed Under: Spring Home Tips, Summer Home Tips Tagged With: ,

Everything You Need to Know About Window Condensation

February 16, 2023 by

Everything You Need to Know About Window Condensation

Have you ever wondered what exactly is window condensation and what can be done about it? The good news is that small amounts of window condensation are generally harmless and will easily evaporate. However, continued condensation can become a problem by supporting mildew growth and damaging the home’s structure.

What causes window condensation?

Window condensation occurs when invisible water vapor in the air condenses onto glass. The water vapor in the warm, moist air turns into liquid and clings to your windows because they are generally the coldest surface in your home. Most often condensation occurs when there are extreme temperature differences between the indoors and outdoors. It will usually be seen on the inside of windows during winter months and the outside of windows during summer months. The energy efficiency of modern, air-tight homes makes it harder for moisture to escape, forcing it to condense on your windows. 

What can be done about window condensation?

Temporary or short-term window condensation can usually be remedied with the following adjustments:

  • Run exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms to dispel the excess moisture caused by cooking and showering.
  • Open drapes and blinds allowing air to circulate around the windows.
  • Keep your indoor humidity level in the desired range – less than 60 percent in the summer and 25-40 percent in the winter. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to enlist the help of humidifiers or dehumidifiers to achieve these levels. Remember, your windows are often the first indication your indoor humidity levels are elevated. Over time, too much humidity can damage insulation, leave stains on the walls and ceiling, and in extreme cases, lead to structural damage in your home. Investing in a hygrometer will help you keep close tabs on the humidity level in your home.
  • If weather permits, crack open a window to air out your home.
  • Add storm windows or replace existing single-pane windows with insulated windows. 

When should you worry about window condensation?

There is no need to worry about condensation unless you notice constant moisture problems, water damage, mildew, water stains, peeling paint, rotting wood, or moisture on exterior walls. These are an indication of a more serious problem that needs to be addressed by a professional. Also, if you find condensation between the two layers of glass in an insulated window, this means the airtight seal has broken and the glass will need to be replaced. 

Sentry Window Guards is your one-stop solution for window guards and window stops. We have worked with nearly every architect, management company, and project developer in the New York area. We pride ourselves on being one of the most reliable and affordable window guard providers in the industry. By creating strong relationships with some of the largest window manufacturers, we can provide the most economical solutions for your project. For more information regarding our products and how they keep everyone safe at home in NYC, contact us today!

Filed Under: Spring Home Tips Tagged With:

Get Your NYC Home Ready for Spring with this Safety Checklist

March 16, 2022 by

Even if there is still a chill in the air, the first official day of spring is March 20. Bring in the season by running through this safety checklist for your home. No matter where you live, you should always feel secure in your own home. Even if you feel your home is already a safe space, it never hurts to take a look around with fresh eyes and spring is the perfect time to do that.

  • Store cleaning supplies carefully while spring cleaning. Instead of keeping your cleaning supplies under the sink, put them in a higher cabinet or buy locks for the cabinet doors. If someone in your home does consume a dangerous cleaning fluid, call poison control immediately, at 800-222-1222.
  • Clean gutters will keep rainwater flowing freely away from your home. Water from spring rain that gets clogged up in the gutters may lead to a leaky roof or work its way right into the walls and ceilings of your home. Left unnoticed, this type of water damage can quickly lead to mold. Spring is a good time to clean and inspect all your gutters for damage. 
  • Develop an emergency escape plan and have the whole family test it out once during the daylight and once at night. Check to make sure windows are not nailed or painted shut and teach children who are old enough how to properly and safely open windows during an emergency situation. Be sure your plan identifies a safe meeting place outside your home for everyone to gather.
  • Check all of your windows to make sure they are not a fall risk. Properly installed window guards are your best defense in preventing window falls as screens alone cannot support the weight of a child. Window stops allow you to enjoy the fresh spring breeze while ensuring windows won’t open wide enough to invite a fall. 
  • Smoke detectors and fire alarms help alert your family to fire and dangerous smoke while there is still time to evacuate. Carbon monoxide detectors alert you when there are dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in your home. To ensure proper function, test these devices at least once a month and replace the batteries twice a year. Replacing batteries on daylight saving days in the spring and fall makes it easy to keep track.
  • Maintain your HVAC system by scheduling an inspection and changing out air filters.  Systems with cracks, dirty air filters, and poor ventilation can cause poor air quality, higher energy bills, and carbon monoxide buildup. 
  • Finally, be sure you are enrolled in the Notify NYC alert system, which is New York City’s official source for information about emergency alerts and important city services. You can receive alerts through email, text, telephone, or social media. This will keep you informed about what is going on in your neighborhood.

At Sentry Window Guards we make it our mission to help keep families safe. We hope these tips will help you protect your family from at home injuries this spring. For more information regarding our window guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!

Filed Under: Spring Home Tips Tagged With: ,