What can your floors do for your indoor air quality? At first glance, you might think nothing, but this is far from the truth. In fact, certain flooring materials trap or release allergens, dust, and harmful chemicals into the air. By understanding which flooring type does what, you can make an informed decision for your Houston home.
So how does your flooring affect your indoor air quality? It’s time to find out!
Understanding Indoor Air Quality
Before we learn about how each flooring type affects your indoor air quality (IAQ), we need to understand what it is. IAQ refers to the cleanliness and safety of the air inside your home. When it’s poor, it can lead to health issues like allergies, asthma, and respiratory problems. The most common pollutants flooring releases into the air include:
- VOCS (Volatile Organic Compounds): These are chemicals produced by certain types of flooring that evaporate into the air and cause long-term health issues.
- Dust and Allergens: Over time, these can accumulate on the surface of your floors if you don’t keep them clean.
- Mold and Mildew: Flooring in moisture-prone areas can develop these issues if they are not water-resistant.
IAQ makes a huge difference when it comes to you and your family’s health and safety. Now that you know what indoor air quality is, let’s discuss the impact that each type of flooring has on your Houston home.
Impact of Each Flooring Material on Indoor Air Quality
When you’re shopping around for new flooring, consider the impact the material will have on your indoor air quality. It’s another reason to shop smart and do your research. We break down the pros and cons of each flooring material below:
- Hardwood Flooring: Hypoallergenic and easy to clean, these floors trap fewer allergens than their counterparts. However, some finishes and adhesives can release VOCs.
- Carpet: Unfortunately, this material tends to trap dust, pet dander, and pollen, which can worsen allergies. Despite this, modern low-VOC carpets tend to be safer, but still require regular cleaning.
- Luxury VInyl Flooring (LVP/LVT): Some top qualities include durability, water-resistance, and a low-maintenance nature. However, some LVP options emit VOCs, so look out for low LVP options.
- Laminate Flooring: Similar to its counterparts, this material is easy to clean and doesn’t tend to trap allergens. It’s important to note that laminate can be made from pressed wood products, which release VOCs into the air.
- Tile Flooring: Materials such as porcelain and ceramic don’t release VOCs. With that said, you still have to pay attention to your grout lines. Without proper maintenance, they can collect dirt.
Not every flooring material is perfect. Even though they each have their advantages, they all have their downsides as well. That’s why you must be careful when shopping for flooring. We will provide some tips to help you achieve the best air quality for your home next.
Choosing Flooring for Better Air Quality
Alongside understanding the pros and cons of each flooring material, you have to consider additional factors. Here are our tips:
- Choose Low-VOC or Hypoallergenic Materials: Hardwood and tile are less likely to trap allergens than their counterparts. Also, keep an eye out for low-VOC certifications like GreenGuard or FloorScore.
- Opt for Professional Installation: When your floors are installed correctly, you won’t have to worry about gaps, moisture buildup, or mold issues. Ask your installers about low-VOC adhesive options.
- Clean Regularly: HEPA-filter vacuums and eco-friendly cleaning products can reduce dust and allergens. If you have tile flooring, seal the grout lines to prevent dust accumulation.
- Keep Porous Materials Out of Moisture-Prone Areas: Use water-resistant materials such as tile or LVP in bathrooms and basements. It will help prevent mold growth.
By following our advice, you can keep everyone happier and healthier. The right flooring materials can work wonders for any Houston homeowner.
Improve Your Home’s Air Quality with the Right Flooring!
Despite being overlooked, flooring is one of the biggest contributors to indoor air quality. You can create a healthier, safer living space by opting for low-VOC, hypoallergenic flooring options and installing proper flooring. At Floor Inspirations, we want to help you out. With one of our flooring experts by your side, you can make the best decision for your home’s air quality.
Want to breathe and live better? Contact us or visit our Houston, TX, showroom today!
