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Indoor air quality after new floors Written on November 7, 2008, by admin.
Let’s look at some flooring options and see what can be expected air quality-wise post installation: Sheet vinyl is made by taking a layer of a PVC (polyvinyl chloride) compound (usually a PVC resin mixed with plasticizers and other additives like fungicides) and putting it on a backing material such as paper or a foamed plastic material.
A 1991 survey showed that vinyl flooring is found in 73 percent of all kitchens. Other flooring used in kitchens included ceramic tile, carpeting and wood. In bathrooms, vinyl flooring was found in 47 percent of homes, compared with ceramic tile (at 28 percent), carpeting (at 24 percent) and wood (at 17 percent).
In general, vinyl flooring may be a source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors, and may require high solvent materials for maintenance.
As for carpet, it is a very common flooring used in homes, commercial facilities and schools. It is the first product to be thoroughly studied for its indoor air quality (IAQ) effects, and found to be a low-emitter of VOCs.
The carpet industry voluntarily instituted an indoor air quality testing and labeling program in 1992. This program assures consumers that they can purchase carpet that will contribute minimal levels of VOCs into the air. The program was expanded to include carpet adhesives and cushions.
When choosing any of these materials, make sure that the product carries the Green IAQ Label from the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI). This is the only flooring specific industry program in place that assures acceptable IAQ performance of flooring.
Carpet is also susceptible to mold growth if it remains chronically damp or wet. This may occur near water sources or areas where there is a constant moisture problem such as on concrete in damp basements, near leaking pipes or pipes with condensate on them, near water fountains, to name a few examples.
As for another material source, we are all familiar with wood, which for the environmentalist can be very attractive, especially if the wood comes from a sustainable forest. While new water-based polyurethane varnishes are available, most varnishes and other floor finishes still give off large quantities of VOCs into the air.
Though there are some low-VOC floor finishes available, they have not been popular since they are not as durable. Wood flooring may also be sources of formaldehyde if laminates are placed on pressed wood underlayments. The coatings and sealants may also be sources of formaldehyde. In general, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation and ventilation of the installation area. Do not over apply the adhesive and tack down product when possible.
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