When it comes to building a healthy indoor environment, one of the most often-overlooked aspects is the selection of flooring material. The materials beneath your feet not only influence the visual appeal of your living space but also play a crucial role in determining the quality of the air you breathe. Indoor air quality holds immense significance for our well-being, especially considering that we spend the majority of our time within our homes. In this post, we take a look at how different flooring materials impact indoor air quality and, subsequently, respiratory health. Read on to learn more.
The Role of Flooring in Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality is significantly influenced by various factors, including ventilation, humidity levels, and the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Flooring materials can be a substantial source of VOCs, which are gases emitted from certain solids or liquids, including many commonly used flooring materials. Prolonged exposure to high levels of VOCs can lead to respiratory issues, headaches, and other health problems, making the choice of flooring material a critical aspect of indoor air quality management.
Types of Flooring and Their Impact
Below, we take a look at some different types of flooring and the impact they have;
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Carpeting
Carpets, though offering luxurious comfort and exceptional noise reduction, can harbour allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mould, necessitating thorough and consistent cleaning to maintain a healthy indoor environment. Additionally, carpets can emit VOCs, particularly when new, which can aggravate respiratory issues and other health concerns.
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Hardwood Floors
Hardwood flooring stands out for its natural elegance and enduring resilience. It also offers a healthier indoor environment, as hardwood floors don’t harbour allergens to the extent carpets do and are significantly easier to clean. However, it’s crucial to prioritise low-VOC adhesives and finishes when selecting hardwood flooring, as the chemicals used in these products can emit VOCs that may adversely impact air quality.
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Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring, renowned for its enduring durability and extensive range of aesthetically pleasing designs, can release VOCs from the adhesives and resins employed in its production. However, many manufacturers are now providing low-VOC alternatives that minimise the release of these potentially harmful compounds into the indoor air.
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Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring, widely recognised for its affordability and versatility, has drawn attention for potential health concerns. Some vinyl flooring products emit VOCs and may contain phthalates, chemicals linked to respiratory and reproductive issues. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritise phthalate-free vinyl and options certified for low VOC emissions to ensure a healthier indoor environment.
How to Mitigate the Impact
To reduce the impact of your flooring on indoor air quality, there are a number of things you can do. For example, aim to choose flooring products labelled as low-VOC or VOC-free, regardless of the type. Secondly, ensure good ventilation during and post-installation to allow emissions to dissipate. Regular cleaning is essential to minimise dust, dirt, and allergens. Lastly, have your flooring professionally installed to limit VOC emissions from adhesives and finishes.
High Quality Flooring in Dublin
The choice of flooring in your home or workspace is more than a matter of aesthetics and comfort. It plays an integral role in determining the indoor air quality and can have long-term effects on your respiratory health.
Here at Canadia, we offer an exquisite range of flooring options, reflecting our almost 100-year heritage and passion for floors. Our floors create timeless elegance in every space, whether modern or century-old. Our commitment to first-class design, sustainability, style, innovation, and quality is evident in every single floor.
We have a diverse collection of floors including various wood constructions like solid wood flooring, engineered, and laminate, featuring patterns such as herringbone and chevron. Our floors are sourced globally, from hardwood mills in Canada to advanced facilities in the Alps, selecting only the finest hardwoods.
Our specialised team offers unparalleled product knowledge and a great job from start to finish. We offer exclusive matching accessories to complement our vast, beautiful wood collection, catering to every style, requirement, and budget. As a member of the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), we commit to honesty, integrity, and professional conduct. If you’d like to find out more about our flooring, please call us on 01 461 0997, or email us at info@canadia.ie.