Why Choose Low VOC Flooring Products?

We all know that maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for our health, especially as we spend a significant amount of time indoors. The quality of air in our homes should be a top priority year-round. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are one of the main contributors to poor indoor air quality. Unfortunately, VOCs are present in many products we use every day, from cleaning supplies to furniture, and it's nearly impossible to avoid them entirely—no matter how eco-friendly or sustainable our choices may seem. However, this doesn’t mean we need to live without VOCs altogether. The key is reducing their presence in our homes and achieving this is easier than you might think.

What Are VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)?

VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, are chemicals that can be found in various products and materials around us, and they naturally occur in the environment as well. At room temperature, VOCs have high vapour pressure, causing them to release chemical particles into the air we breathe through "off-gassing." Off-gassing refers to the release of vapours or gases from products and materials, potentially impacting our health and well-being.

While we’re aware that certain items like varnishes, turpentine, and other chemical-laden products stored away from the living space contribute significantly to VOCs, it’s surprising that everyday household items many of us consider harmless can also emit VOCs. Products such as paint, adhesives, sealants, finishes, and synthetic materials used in flooring, furniture, countertops, upholstery, mattresses, and electronic devices all release VOCs through off-gassing.

The Effect of Off-Gassing in Closed Spaces

• Flooring: From engineered wood to laminate flooring and carpets treated with chemicals.
• Furniture: Sofas, chairs, tables made from synthetic materials and treated wood.
• Countertops and surfaces: Materials like laminate, tile, and synthetic countertops.
• Upholstery and Mattresses: Fabrics treated with stain-resistant finishes and adhesives.
• Electronics and Smaller Items: Things like computers, TVs, and other devices.

When these products coexist in a closed environment like a room, the concentration of off-gassed VOCs can become significant, impacting the overall air quality and your well-being.

Why You Should Care About VOCs

VOCs are not just scientific concepts—they directly affect our daily lives and health. These compounds have a significant impact on indoor air quality, which in turn affects our well-being. This is especially important for individuals who are more vulnerable, such as those living with asthma, migraine, or other respiratory issues, as well as the elderly and young children.

The impact of VOCs on health can vary depending on the concentration of off-gassing in the indoor environment. Some of the health effects associated with high VOC levels include:

• Worsening allergies and respiratory problems.
• Irritation of eyes, nose, and throat.
• Nausea and dizziness.
• Headaches, especially for those with migraine sensitivities.

Given the potential health risks, it’s crucial to consider low-VOC flooring products and other materials in your home to help improve the air quality and minimize exposure to harmful chemicals. 

What to Do About VOCs?

Fortunately, there are many simple steps and household remedies to help reduce the VOC levels in your indoor air. By following a few easy practices, you can significantly improve your indoor air quality.

1. Ensure Good Ventilation

Proper ventilation is one of the most effective ways to decrease VOCs in your home. Even during colder months, it’s important to open windows daily to let fresh air circulate throughout your home. Ventilation helps flush out harmful gases and bring in cleaner air from the outside.

2. Turn Off Unused Electronic Devices

When not in use, turn off electronic devices to prevent them from contributing to indoor air pollution. Electronic devices can emit small amounts of VOCs over time, especially when left on.

3. Use Exhaust Fans and Circulate Air

To help keep the air fresh and circulating, use exhaust fans in areas like the kitchen and bathroom. You can also make use of other fans to improve airflow throughout the home. A good air circulation system helps reduce the buildup of VOCs.

4. Use a Dehumidifier

Using a dehumidifier can help regulate humidity levels in your home, which in turn can reduce the amount of VOC off-gassing. Moisture in the air can encourage the release of VOCs, so controlling the humidity is a key step.

5. Opt for Natural Materials

Another way to reduce VOCs is by replacing products in your home that contribute to high levels of VOCs with natural materials. This can be easy for smaller items, but more difficult for larger ones like furniture or flooring.

Investing in real wood flooring is one of the best decisions for reducing indoor air pollution. Wood floors are naturally hygienic and safe, as wood does not emit VOCs. When purchasing wooden floors, make sure to buy from reputable flooring suppliers who can provide proof that the products are certified for low or no VOC content.

It is essential to avoid flooring products that contain harmful adhesives, stains, finishes, sealants, or other treatments that release VOCs. Opt for natural alternatives wherever possible, and look for flooring made using environmentally friendly processes that avoid VOCs throughout the manufacturing stages.