Most laminate products let off formaldehyde gas for about ten years, but some makes may have a low-level of toxicity that is considered safest for at-home flooring.
Laminate flooring is made using adhesives and that is why it releases formaldehyde gas, which could be toxic to you, kids, and even pets. Most laminate products off-gas for about 10 years but some brands have a very low level of the toxic gas that is considered safe for flooring.
Does the formaldehyde dissipate over time? Yes, typically emissions from composite wood products decrease over time.
"Proper ventilation, such as opening up windows, bringing fresh air through a central ventilation system, and running exhaust fans will expedite formaldehyde off-gassing from finished goods in your home as well as the odors from any finishes such as varnish or lacquer. Extended ventilation may be needed.
CDC/ATSDR found that exposure to formaldehyde in the CPSC-tested laminate flooring sold at Lumber Liquidators® could cause irritation and breathing problems. However, you can take steps to reduce formaldehyde levels in your home.
How Long Does Vinyl Floors Off Gas? Off gassing is usually extreme in the first 3 to 5 weeks after your vinyl flooring installation. However, factors like ventilation, where the installation is done, and the amount of chemicals emitted can affect how long the smell will last.
Search for low-VOC flooring: While most laminate flooring contains formaldehyde as an adhesive, this doesn't mean you can't find ways to curb the emissions.
A sample of your laminate flooring will be placed within a chamber at a set temperature and humidity. The formaldehyde will off-gas into the chamber and then the air will be collected and analyzed for formaldehyde content.
Laminate floors typically have more VOCs than other floorings due to the adhesives in the process. They are the worst option for a healthy home.
Laminate flooring also wins out over vinyl when it comes to environmental sustainability. Vinyl is produced using petroleum, which isn't a renewable resource. Its production generates toxic chemicals.
Proof that our flooring products do not release toxic substances and are odourless. Proof that our flooring products do not release toxic substances and are odourless.
Some laminate wood flooring contains formaldehyde, which can cause irritation and respiratory issues. Newer laminate flooring that's TSCA Title VI compliant has much lower levels of formaldehyde to keep your home's air safer.
In high-traffic areas it can show wear and tear, and laminate can't be sanded or refinished for an updated appearance. Because of its lower price point, laminate also won't do much for your home's resale value.
According to Home Depot, “Laminate flooring at The Home Depot is verified by either GREENGUARD® Gold or FloorScore® certification to contain 0.0073 ppm or less of formaldehyde, which is a stricter standard than CARB 2 of 0.05 ppm.”
The best options are real hardwood, polished concrete, and tile. But specific brands of natural linoleum, carpet, and engineered wood are excellent choices as well. There are many choices for non-toxic flooring suitable for the chemically sensitive or the health-conscious homeowner.
Solid hardwood flooring is considered the safest and least toxic option as it's completely natural and free from any toxins. Solid hardwood floors are made of planks milled from a single piece of timber.
Generally speaking, floors with a nontoxic seal or finish have the lowest VOC levels. These include solid hardwood floors, polished concrete, and tile. Keep in mind that every flooring option comes with a lot of variety. Take the time to consider the different materials and finishes available to you.
US Floors: Another one of the best laminate flooring options available. US Floors Natural Bamboo, Natural Cork and Coretec Plus floors are third party certified by GreenGuard Gold for ultra low emissions of Formaldehyde. Their adhesive formulas are either low or zero formaldehyde content.
These days, Pergo is owned by Mohawk and, as you might imagine, they also make non-toxic laminate flooring. Pergo's laminate, on the other hand, is certified as low-VOC with a Nordic EcoLabel, which is similar to FloorScore and GreenGuard certification.
Laminate flooring may seem like a good choice but due to the way its manufactured can actually be detrimental. Laminate is made from recycled wood composites that have been glued together and can contain high VOC levels which can trigger allergies and asthma.
The VOCs emanating from a product dissipate over time as the chemicals vaporize. VOCs from paint dissipate fairly quickly with most offgassing occuring during the first 6 months after application. Other sources, such as particle board may continue to offgas for 20 years or more.
It is very resilient and can last up to 30-40 years. Vinyl on the other hand is a petroleum-based synthetic product, made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin along with additives, such as plasticizers, stabilizers, pigments, and fillers.
Vinyl Plank, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) are very low in VOCs and offgassing. Most people find it odorless, but those like me with a high sense of smell can certainly pick up the offgassing.
Yes, you can use a wet Swiffer or Swiffer WetJet on laminate floors. "The wet Swiffer is best for quickly cleaning small spaces," Forte says.
While the up-front cost of carpet might be tempting, over time laminate flooring is cheaper than carpet. Laminate flooring is made to last and is nearly double the lifespan of an average carpet. Flooring is considered an investment, as it really becomes a permanent fixture in your home.