Happy Spring! Here in the Northern Hemisphere, Spring begins March 20th, and after an atypical stretch of sub-zero temperature, I’m ready for the warmer days. Where I live, in Western Pennsylvania, March is a transitional month. The ground is softening, snowmelt is moving through the soil, and the freeze–thaw cycle tests every seam in a building enclosure. From a Building Biology perspective, this is the time to pay close attention to water.
Outside, that means:
- Checking grading to ensure meltwater drains away from the foundation
- Clearing clogged gutters and downspouts
- Looking for pooling water near basement walls
- Observing siding, flashing, and rooflines for signs of winter damage
Inside, it’s wise to:
- Inspect the basement or crawlspace for dampness
- Notice any musty odors
- Look for condensation on cold surfaces
- Address minor drainage or ventilation issues early, before warmer temperatures accelerate microbial growth
March is also an appropriate moment to prepare the indoor environment for the seasonal changes ahead.
Seasonal indoor preparation might include:
- Replacing or cleaning HVAC filters
- Testing bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans for proper airflow
- Evaluating whether whole-house ventilation is balanced and adequate
- Planning spring projects with healthy materials in mind—low-emission finishes, untreated solid wood, mineral-based paints
And speaking of closed windows, you may have heard the phrase “house burping.” An important practice to home maintenance is to open windows or doors briefly each day, even in cooler weather. A few minutes of cross-ventilation helps dilute indoor pollutants, regulate humidity, and keep the indoor environment feeling fresh.
These small, seasonal adjustments reflect a core Building Biology principle: address root causes early, rather than reacting to symptoms once problems emerge.
$25,000 in Matching Funds Available to BBI!
Finally, I am very excited to share that a generous supporter has stepped forward with a $25,000 dollar-for-dollar matching gift, available through March 31. Every 100% tax-deductible contribution made during this campaign will be matched, up to that full amount—effectively doubling the impact of your support at a pivotal moment for our work.
As we think about opening our homes to fresh air and light this season, this match creates a similar opening for our mission. If Building Biology has informed your home, your health, or your professional path, I invite you to consider participating. Your gift, matched dollar-for-dollar, helps ensure that more families, builders, and practitioners have access to practical, science-based guidance for creating truly healthy spaces.
Please click here for more information, and to participate in this amazing opportunity!
Thank you!