Over the past decade, there has been a lot written about volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and flooring materials. VOCs have become a concern since 2014 when a report revealed that Chinese-made laminate flooring was releasing toxic levels of formaldehyde in many US homes.
Since that report, consumers have become wary of flooring materials and how they may impact health. However, at the same time, flooring manufacturers and regulatory agencies have set up newer standards and quality measures to ensure that all flooring materials in the USA follow recommended guidelines for better safety. Fortunately, more low VOC flooring has materialized, but the problem hasn’t gone away entirely.
WHAT ARE VOCS?
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that have high vapor pressure at room temperatures. The molecules can easily evaporate in the air. A classic example is the application of rubbing alcohol on the body; seconds after pouring it on the skin, it quickly evaporates and mixes with the air in the room.
There are numerous household products that release VOCs, including paint, thinners, cleaning products, and solvents. For example, when you sit in a new car, the fresh smell is due to released VOCs from the plastic, paint, and cleaning solutions. While small amounts of VOCs may not be harmful, continued release of high levels of VOCs may be detrimental to health. To avoid this situation, you need to choose low VOC flooring.
VOCS AND YOUR HEALTH
There is good evidence that VOCs can adversely affect health. The problem is that once released indoors, VOCs will remain in the air for a long time, and household members will breathe these compounds. Breathing in VOCs can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, cause a chronic cough, make breathing difficult, and induce headaches, and there is concern that prolonged exposure may even lead to damage to the brain, liver, and kidneys.
VOCs contain four toxic chemicals, and they include benzene, formaldehyde, methylene chloride, and perchloroethylene. All four of these chemicals are toxic at high concentrations. However, the one with the most concern is formaldehyde because it is widely used in the flooring industry.
FORMALDEHYDE IN FLOORING
Formaldehyde is a very common chemical and widely used in commercial businesses chiefly due to its antibacterial properties and the fact that it acts as a preservative. It is found in trace amounts in many commercial products, personal care items, and even some pharmaceutical products.
Formaldehyde is also found in glues and finishes that are used to install engineered wood and laminate. Some of the underlayment even contains formaldehyde to make the foam soft and pliable. Formaldehyde is essential when preparing hardwood flooring, and not only is it economical, but it is not easy to substitute. Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has set limits on the acceptable amounts of formaldehyde emissions.
BEST LOW VOCS FLOORING CHOICES
When it comes to flooring, it is best to select low-VOC flooring. In general, the number of VOCs released from flooring products depends on the type of chemical and process the manufacturer uses. In addition, another common reason why VOCs accumulate indoors is poor ventilation and excess use of other materials that release VOCs, including finishes and adhesives.
NON-TOXIC FLOORING OPTIONS
Hardwood
Hardwood flooring is perhaps the best low VOC flooring option as it is least likely to pass VOCs in its natural state. However, when it comes to the finish, it is vital that you use a water-based product compared to an oil-based product.
The key is to purchase hardwood flooring from a reputable dealer and select one with low or no VOCs. You can even have the hardwood prefinished at the manufacturing site, so the coating has had time to cure, and the VOCs will have been released by the time the hardwood is installed in your home.
Polished Concrete
Polished concrete flooring options tend to be VOC-free or have very low VOC emittance. They have a high resistance to mold growth, and they typically do not have any harmful additives or chemicals. The grind and seal process for polished concrete uses low VOC products, and after the first week, they do not emit VOCs at all.
Tile
Tile flooring made from natural materials tends to be very low in VOCs or other toxic materials. Ceramic tiles can be a little more expensive than some other options, but they offer terrific aesthetic beauty, are durable, and typically last longer than many other flooring materials.
Bamboo
Bamboo is also a low VOC flooring option, but, again, it depends on the manufacturer. It is important to make sure that the finish on the bamboo is water-based and already completed before installation. This way, there is little risk of VOCs being released in your home.
Cork
Cork is another great low-VOC flooring option. However, it is important to read the label and make sure that the adhesives used release low levels of VOCs. Cork flooring is usually put together with a significant amount of glue and adhesives, and formaldehyde can be released into the home. Hence, work with a reputable manufacturer who can guide you to cork flooring with low VOCs.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Because of the way engineered wood is manufactured, it does require a significant number of adhesives, and this has the potential for VOCs to be released in the home. Hence, you need to select engineered wood manufactured with adhesives that release no or low VOCs. Another option is to wait for a few weeks before installation, as this will allow the VOCs to be released at the manufacturing site.
Vinyl
Low VOC vinyl flooring is also a good option to keep your home healthy. It is an eco-friendly option that also provides durability. Low VOC vinyl flooring does not have lines where the substance grout will protect and foster harmful germs.
Linoleum
Linoleum is made using a combination of sawdust, binders, linseed oil, dry pigments, and limestone that are applied to a natural jute backing. Linoleum does tend to release gases, especially after manufacturing, but these gases are harmless and quickly disperse in the environment. Linoleum is a great flooring option if you do not want to deal with VOCs.
Carpet
The majority of carpet flooring is synthetic and can be a source of VOCs. Hence, the onus is on the buyer to look for carpets made from natural fibers that release low VOCs. Avoid features like moth-proofing, flame retardants, and stain repellents in the carpet since they tend to have a high risk of releasing VOCs. Instead, select natural fibers, like wool and cotton, and opt out of the extra frills.
HOW TO REDUCE VOC EXPOSURE IN YOUR HOME
Most homes have multiple sources for VOCs, and here are some of the ways to reduce their levels:
- Open the windows when possible. By increasing ventilation, you can lower the concentration of VOCs inside the home. This can be aided with the use of a fan, which enhances air circulation and helps prevent the build-up of VOCs.
- When you buy products for the home, always read the labels to make sure that it says low VOCs. Today, products like paints, thinners, and floor finishes do mention if they have high or low levels of VOCs.
- Follow the manufacturer’s direction of use. For example, many paints, thinners, floor finishes, glues, etc., will have guidelines as to how many hours you may have to leave the window open and how much solution you should use each time.
- Purchase household products only from trusted sources.
- Avoid using old and unused paints and thinners, as they can still emit fumes.
- Reduce the need for chemicals in your home. For example, limit the use of pesticides and insecticides. There is no such thing as a safe chemical.
- Avoid mixing solvents and solutions. For example, avoid mixing bleach with other household cleaners as it may lead to the generation of toxic gases.
- Promptly dispose of unused products.
- If you do need to use finishes and solvents, use water-based products instead of oil-based products, as they are safer.
CONCLUSION
There is no flooring that is zero VOC; today, almost all flooring products do use some type of chemical either during the manufacture or installation process. Low VOC vinyl flooring is a good option, like so many other low VOC flooring choices.
The key is to read labels and select low VOC flooring that is least likely to release VOCs or only release small amounts of VOCs. The best recommendation is to speak with an East Coast Flooring & Interiors expert who can guide you to flooring that is safe, durable, affordable, and meets your personal needs. Visit our showroom today for more information.