DIY Network

Volatile Organic Compounds From "Healthy Household Workshop" episode DHHW-105

Volatile Organic Compounds are compounds found in paint, caulk, cleaning supplies, carpet, wood -- even items from the grocery store -- and they can be damaging to your health. You can't entirely eliminate these compounds from your daily life, but you can minimize the amount.

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• Volatile organic compounds are gases released as materials age and degrade over time. There are hundreds of VOCs -- from formaldehyde and ethanol to vinyl, adhesives and varnishes. Even felt tip pens are a source. The smell in a new car is perhaps one of the most noticeable examples of VOCs, as the interior plastics emit gases.

• VOCs can cause allergic reactions such as asthma, headaches, upper respiratory infections, rashes -- even cancer.

Wallcoverings and VOCs

• Read labels to find low-VOC products and purchase non-toxic paint.

• Use water-based polyurethane that emits fewer gases than oil-based products. For the same reason, natural or low-voc stains, sealants and varnishes are also healthier choices.

• Avoid vinyl wall covering, as well as vinyl upholstery and flooring. Vinyl is a chemical radical emitting various gases.

• Tightly rolled wallpaper can trap gases, so unroll outdoors to allow gases to dissipate before hanging indoors.

	Ceramic tile
	Bamboo flooring
	Recycled glass tile
	A low-nap carpet with a Carpet and Rug Institute tag is the healthiest synthetic carpet selection.

Low-VOC Flooring Alternatives

• Vinyl and synthetic carpets are high in VOCs. Instead, look for natural fibers such as wool, sisal and cotton.

• While hardwood floors are easy to clean and might seem like a good solution, hardwoods include formaldehydes and all finishes emit VOCs. A good alternative is pre-sealed hardwood, or hardwood sealed with water-based polyurethane.

• Ceramic tile is inert, emitting no gases. Linoleum is clinically non-toxic. Other allergy-friendly flooring includes bamboo, cork or recycled glass.

• To minimize the VOCs found in adhesives, select low-VOC or water-based products.

• Carpet should include a low-emission level (indicated by a Carpet and Rug Institute Tag). Select carpet that's free of chemicals with low-nap. Avoid installation in damp areas (bath and kitchen). Install with tack strips, rather than adhesive, and make sure a moisture barrier is in place before the carpet is installed.

RESOURCES :

Health House Consumer Information
American Lung Association
Web site: www.healthhouse.org

GUESTS :

Jeff Christian
Construction Specifications Institute
Web site: CSInet.org