The road that leads to your home is unpaved and basically just dirt, so every trip across it usually ends in a vehicle covered with a thin layer of dust. Additionally, you find road dust coating your windows and doors and perhaps even sections of your lawn. While this may seem like no big deal, road dust issues are actually an environmental and health concern. Here are a few things you need to know about road dust if you live in an area where your primary entry road is not paved or otherwise coated. 

What is in road dust that makes it such a concern?

Even though most people assume the dust flying from an unpaved road is little more than dirt, it can actually contain some pretty worrisome contaminants. Road dust particles can contain everything from chemicals to animal waste. Both natural waste and human-created byproducts may be contaminating the ground where you live. It is common to find things like mining byproducts, vehicular components like engine oil and diesel, and even asbestos in road dust.

Why is controlling road dust so important?

That thin layer of dust you deal with every time you travel the unpaved road to your home may be a nuisance, but it is even more than that. According to the EPA, road dust can actually be a health hazard. The small particles that are airborne can be ingested and inhaled, which can cause problems with breathing and even further aggravate heart and lung issues you may already have. Additionally, foods that come into contact with road dust, such as those fresh foods in your garden or growing wild like berries, should be thoroughly washed to prevent illness. 

What is the best way to prevent road dust problems?

There are a handful of options available if you are dealing with road dust issues on your own property. For example, you may be able to 

• post speed limit signs, as slower-moving vehicles stir up less dust and will result in less of a problem
• have new gravel regularly applied on the surface of the dirt road
• check out dust-control products, which contain chemicals to effectively keep the dust particles heavy and less likely to become airborne
• talk to a dust control contractor about installing a roadway-waterway system 

Road dust problems are often more of a threat than what a homeowner realizes. If you would like to know more about road dust on your property, contact a road dust control contractor in your area.