umerous studies show how much time we spend indoors (according to some sources, we spend up to 90% of our time indoors). It is therefore very important that our home and workspace be places where we can feel good. This is influenced by many factors, among which we must highlight air quality. That is why good ventilation is important for energy-efficient buildings with modern insulation, but we can do more than that. Perhaps many people don't even think about it, but the objects that surround us, even the paints and varnishes that cover the walls, floors, windows and doors, can also pollute the indoor air. It is worth paying attention to choose products that do not harm our body.
For the cleanliness of the indoor air, the so-called Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) represent the greatest danger. These are hydrocarbon derivatives that can cause headaches, respiratory diseases, throat and eye irritation, and even liver and nervous system damage in the long term. Among the VOCs, the World Health Organization singles out formaldehyde, which the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified as a carcinogen in 2004.
What does all of this mean in regards of the floorings we use? Laminate floors can also contain VOCs and formaldehyde, and in the case of carpeted floors, the quality of the glue must also be taken into consideration, as it can also contain substances hazardous to health. A good alternative is a natural solid wood flooring, parquet, but only if it is not treated with synthetic varnishes. That is why at EDELHOLZ we only use safe, harmless materials for the surface treatment of our wooden coverings, such as the vegetable oils and waxes of the German Oli Lacke.
We must emphasize, that we do not only pay attention to our solid wood (one layer) flooring’s quality. In the case of multi-layer floors, each layer is made of solid oak or ash wood, so the invisible layers are not made of MDF or plywood (the production of which often uses synthetic glues and synthetic resins with a high formaldehyde content). In addition, at EDELHOLZ, we use a water-based adhesive when pressing the layers, which is also a good alternative according to the recommendation of the Air Action Group.
EDELHOLZ's mission is to manufacture premium-quality, natural wood floors and solid wood furniture that will decorate customers' homes for generations. For us, it is essential that our products do not harm the health of their users, and even contribute to a balanced and happy life with their beauty and pleasant touch. See our floors and furniture in person!
Sources:
Simon Gergely: Belső tereink szennyezettsége (Levegő Munkacsoport Országos Környezetvédő Szövetség, 2012)
USA Environmental Protection Agency: https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/indoor-air- quality#note2