While new flooring can improve indoor aesthetics and add style to your home, it can also be a source of IAQ concerns. IAQ stands for indoor air quality. It’s an increasing concern to homeowners as today’s tightly-sealed, efficient houses tend to accumulate potentially harmful particulates and vapors to unhealthy levels that may trigger symptoms in susceptible individuals.
Though not the only source of IAQ concerns, flooring is a home material frequently replaced or renewed. So, it’s worthwhile to be aware of potential effects from different flooring types and finishes.
Hardwood
As an unfinished natural material, solid hardwood flooring is IAQ-friendly. However, certain hardwood finishes applied may release chemical fumes known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at levels that may present air quality issues. Choosing certified hardwood finishes to be low-VOC formulas—natural wax or water-based polyurethane, for example—can reduce the potential VOC hazard substantially.
Engineered Hardwood
Though it looks like solid hardwood, it’s actually only a thin veneer of hardwood glued to an under layer of plywood. Glues used in engineered hardwood may release formaldehyde fumes. Look for engineered hardwood floors made with formaldehyde-free glues and low-VOC finish.
Vinyl
Standard vinyl flooring is made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and typically includes other potentially toxic chemicals such as phthalates that may offgas into the indoor environment. Many vinyl flooring manufacturers now offer specially formulated vinyl alternates that are low-toxin and phthalate-free.
Carpet
Carpet’s effect on indoor air quality is mainly that it can become a reservoir of dust, dirt, pollen, mold spores and other particulates that degrade indoor air quality. These particles are repeatedly stirred up into the air and inhaled by occupants, causing irritation and allergic reactions.
How HVAC Can Help
- Schedule annual preventive maintenance to ensure all components are operating up to specs.
- Keep up with regular system air filter replacement.
- For balanced ventilation to dilute indoor pollutants with fresh, filtered air, look into whole-house systems such as a heat recovery ventilator.
For more about minimizing IAQ concerns due to new flooring, contact the air quality experts at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area